Company Hosts Thousands of Kit Lovers in Mexico, Missouri

Zenith’s 33rd annual Homecoming event was hosted on September 20 and 21 in Mexico, Missouri. Visitors flew and drove in from across the country for a chance to learn and mingle with both kit lovers and builders.

The annual event, presented by the Chris Heintz Foundation, is the primary gathering for Zenith owners and kit enthusiasts. It has grown significantly over the years, providing more and more opportunities to learn about building and flying.

In its cover story about the event, the local Mexico Ledger newspaper concluded: "You can tell just how much everyone cares about what they do at Zenith,” wrote the local newspaper. “It is truly inspiring to have something so unique and family-oriented right here in Mexico, [Missouri]."

This year was not only the event’s 33rd birthday, but also the 40th anniversary of Zenith’s CH-600 series. These low-wing aircraft were designed by Chris Heintz and have been in production as a kit since 1992.

The Homecoming was a “success by all measures,” the company stated, despite experiencing some weather on day two. Hands-on workshops gave visitors the chance to get their hands dirty and practice kit-building skills. Zenith also hosted educational seminars and panel discussions for professionals, Zenith staff, and other volunteers to share their expertise.

After receiving several requests, Zenith decided to bring back the women-only workshop to help diversify kit-building.

Several Zenith suppliers and vendors exhibited at the Homecoming to meet with current and potential customers. The field’s EAA Chapter, 944, dished out fresh pancakes and sausages for visitors both days -- courtesy of three Zenith sponsors.

Many builders traveled far and wide for the event, with builder Jonathan Fay flying his "big tire" Zenith CH 750 Cruzer 1,560 miles in one day. He stated: “My Zenith is amazing, and my Viking 130 keeps chugging along. Great to meet all the other builders and pilots at the Zenith Homecoming!”

FMI: www.zenithair.net