Group Will Again Gather At Mentone, IN, After Oshkosh

Gyroplanes, gyrocopters, helicopters and autogyros, including other sport and general aviation aircraft, will gather at the Mentone Airport (C-92) in Indiana, July 31 through Aug. 4 for the 50th annual convention of the Popular Rotorcraft Association.

This is a rare opportunity to see these unique flying machines, talk to the pilots, builders, kit manufacturers, and see them fly, organizers said, noting the rotorcraft will range from simple open-frame ultralight gyroplanes and helicopters to multi-seat enclosed cross-country rotorcraft.

Joining the rotorcraft this year will be the powered parachute EXTRAVAGANZA, with powered parachutes from across the United States. The convention keynote speaker will be Vance Breese, world-renowned motorcycle racer, who will be talking about his experiences learning to fly after his racing injury.

All aircraft types are welcome to fly in, and a support crew will work to blend fixed-wing and rotary-wing traffic parking. The airport has on-site space for tent camping, showers and also hookups for water and electricity for RVs. WIFI Internet access is available near the association’s office on the field. A concession stand will provide food and beverage service. Local motels are available. Premium auto gas will be available for purchase on site and 100LL is available seven miles away, organizers note.

Visitors will see daily flight demonstrations and open flying throughout each day. Certified flight instructors will also offer demonstration rides for those who wish to experience the thrill of flight in a gyroplane. A variety of vendors will be present with everything from T-Shirts and wind socks to rotorblades and engines.

Forums and workshops will be presented daily discussing many aspects of building and flying gyroplanes, helicopters and light-sport aircraft. Cross-country events will be conducted after each daily pilot briefing.

Convention visitors also may visit the on-field Archimedes/LeRoy Hardee Museum of Homebuilt Rotorcraft, and take a tour of the Bell Helicopter Museum nearby.

FMI: www.pra.org