Clearwater Airpark's Open House 2006 boomed with success on Saturday, June 24.
Families flocked to the Clearwater Airpark to see the many, different types of helicopters and airplanes including: Bayflite, a USCG Jay hawk helicopter, an Army Blackhawk helicopter, and a Pinellas County Sheriffs helicopter.
Airpark attendees also took advantage of the reduced rate airplane and helicopter rides offered. Pilots flew passengers on joy rides for about 15 to 20 minutes down to the beach and back for a scenic airplane ride around Clearwater.
Specialty aircrafts abounded throughout the airpark.
Tony Smuz and his son built his Ultralight Trainer, Excalibur, shown at the open house.
"We built it from a kit and it is a certified, amateur plane now," Smuz said.
The plane has a 65 horsepower engine and carries two people.
"This type of plane was designed to teach people how to fly," Smuz said.
The plane usually flies between 1000 and 1500 feet, cruises between 65 and 70 mph, and carries 10 gallons of fuel, Smuz said.
The open house was filled with airplane enthusiasts, like Smuz, mingling and talking about the many unique airplanes present.
However, even the kids enjoyed this Saturday event.
Kids boarded the Pinellas County Sheriff's helicopter to get a feel for what riding in a helicopter is like.
A moonwalk, city fire truck, face painting, a petting zoo, clowns, and free hot dogs and soda continued to keep kids entertained.
It seemed that a day at the airpark was certainly enjoyed by all.
