Next Event Will Adhere to Normal November Timing -- In The Fall of 2021

"It's been heartbreaking," notes DeLand Sport Aviation Showcase Boss, Jana Filip. "We gave it every chance to happen, but conditions simply will not allow the proper measure of safety at this time... or in the near future."

It was to be the fifth iteration of an annual Sport Aviation fly-in and tradeshow that was not only growing but had established itself as a major regional aviation gathering place.

Filip and the City of DeLand were looking forward to their hard-fought attempt to move the normal November show date to January but with Florida COVID-19 numbers on the rise, limitations on national travel and severe limitations on international travel, as well as potential sponsor companies with their own travel bans, the DSAS effort was simply too improbable to take a chance on. It did everything right, but the outside factors were chipping away and became beyond their ability to circumvent.

So... The next proposed Showcase will be scheduled for November, 2021 ostensibly after a vaccine has been introduced, and the world gets a bit safer -- with specific dates yet to be determined.

In the meantime, DeLand is doing what it can to support the sport aviators that are looking for a chance to venture to DeLand... and to keep central Florida residents aware of DeLand Airport's extensive capabilities and attractions, they intend to hold a one-day Fly-In on January 30, 2021. This "Fly and Drive" event is co-sponsored by automaker Tesla -- who invites central Florida residents to Fly or Drive to the DeLand Airport Management Center and test drive a Tesla, while DeLand's EAA Chapter 635 will prepare their monthly Pancake Breakfast at the new Airport Management Center with seating outside under the verandas, and select exhibitors will show up to display aircraft and other products.

And if fun is had by all, DeLand Airport will look to have a series of one-day Fly-Ins as they lead up to the November 2021 Showcase.

More information on the January 30, 2021 Fly In and other events will be forthcoming, once a COVID safety plan is developed for review by the City's Administrative Services Division.

"DSAS21 will happen... I'm sure of it," says Filip. "But we need more time and better safety resources so that we can provide the best possible kind of Sshowcase while making sure that safety remains a primary focal point. Still... we can't wait to see everyone again in DeLand... to come together to fly and enjoy all that sport aviation and DeLand have to offer. We hope to see you all soon."

FMI: www.sportaviationshowcase.com