Aerodrome Awaits FAA Authorization for Returning Air Bosses

The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome has cancelled a second weekend of events, further delaying the start of its 2025 airshow season. The organization clarified that the setback is out of its control, with two of its three Air Bosses awaiting reauthorization from the FAA.

The site, located in Red Hook, New York, is an active aviation museum with origins dating back to 1958. It is home to numerous airworthy classics from the early 20th century, including World War I-era biplanes and Golden Age aircraft.

The aerodrome’s 2025 show season was expected to run every weekend, starting in mid-June and ending on October 19. Each airshow features vintage displays, character performances, and pre-show access to aircraft and pilots. The experience also includes access to the museum, food from the onsite Aviation Grill, and biplane rides.

On June 13, just a day before the show season was scheduled to begin, organizers were forced to call off the opening weekend’s events. While not many specifics were given, it was clear that regulatory hurdles were to blame.

These suspicions were, unfortunately, confirmed more recently when the Aerodrome cancelled another weekend of airshows. Organization President and Chief Pilot Clay Hammond explained that “two of our Air Bosses came up due for renewal at the end of last season and that renewal process was begun on time and with intent to have finished before the start of 2025 airshows.  Alas...these renewals have not yet been granted despite our best efforts.”

“Headwinds are a normal part of flying.  You don't necessarily know when they will spring up, nor from which direction they will come from...if not direct on the nose,” Hammond stated.

With two of the aerodrome’s certified Air Bosses awaiting FAA approval, and the third having experienced a family emergency, Old Rhinebeck’s show season remains unopened. Weekend three remains in limbo as organizers continue to work out scheduling and discuss with other industry Air Bosses.

“We will adjust as necessary to ride out this temporary setback and I look forward to seeing all of you on the flight line fence on an airshow day in the near future,” Hammond concluded.

FMI: www.oldrhinebeck.org