Mentone Airport to Host the 63rd Annual Gathering to Close Out July

The Popular Rotorcraft Association (PRA) is getting ready to host its 63rd annual convention, featuring flight skill competitions, games, and other community-based activities. The event will run from July 30 to August 2nd at Indiana’s Mentone Airport (C92).

Founded in 1962 by Dr. Igor Bensen, best known for inventing the Bensen Gyrocopter, the PRA has grown into an international organization with members in more than 80 countries. Its annual convention has become a longstanding tradition in the rotorcraft world, especially for gyroplane lovers, pilots, and homebuilders.

This year’s event kicks off early on Tuesday, July 29, with poker-run flights to nearby airports, offering pilots a chance to explore the region and compete for cash prizes… including a consolation for the worst hand. Daily pilots’ briefings and open-mic sessions will begin each morning, followed by educational forums hosted mostly in the airport’s classroom space, with the updated schedule available online.

The evening of the 30th will feature a bingo fundraiser for ongoing runway repairs. The next day brings a gyro trivia night hosted by longtime PRA member Kevin Ritchie, with the winner taking home the custom-built “Little Nellie” model trophy.

Flight skill events, such as spot landing, egg bombing, and a slalom course, are scheduled for August 2 at around noon. If weather deems necessary, the competitions may shift up a day. A large central tent will house vendors and serve as a gathering place for attendees throughout the day.

As requested, the ever-popular fireworks show will return for Friday night after dark. The week closes out with the PRA banquet and awards ceremony at 6 pm.

With a new production gyroplane model expected to debut, this year’s convention promises four (or five for the early birds) days of hands-on learning, good laughs, and flying fun.

FMI: https://pra.org