The Ever Popular Sun ‘N Fun Splash-In On Lake Agnes Has Been Canceled For Safety Reasons

The 2015 Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-in and Expo scheduled for April 21 through the 26th in Lakeland, FL has always been a popular event for seaplane pilots…After all, Florida is probably one of the best places in the country for seaplane flying. But, safety concerns have led the Sun ‘n Fun officials to cancel the “Seabird Splash-in.”

Due to record rainfall over the last 6 months, SUN ‘n FUN has made a decision to cancel the Seabird Splash-In that has been held annually on Lake Agnes at Fantasy of Flight during the SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo. The Lake Agnes water level is more than 2 feet above normal which, unfortunately, creates numerous hazards to seaplane operations in the form of hidden obstructions and, very shallow and long approaches to land access. Additionally, both the dock and ramp at Fantasy of Flight are essentially unusable.

According to Sun ‘n Fun officials, this decision does not come lightly and was made after a recommendation from the SUN ‘n FUN Seabirds Chairman and discussions with the Seaplane Pilots Association leadership, and others. Kermit Weeks and the Fantasy of Flight team were ready and willing to support this year’s event and Sun ‘n Fun officials thank them for their preparation efforts to make it happen.

The SUN 'n FUN Seabirds team is working on alternative activities for all seaplane enthusiasts.  A Saturday night dinner at the SUN ’n FUN Seabird area will be held prior to the evening airshow and fireworks, and it will recognize and welcome the seaplane community. John R. Leenhouts, President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN added, “Though we sincerely regret having to make this decision, we always put safety first and foremost."

(Image from file)

http://www.sun-n-fun.org