Kelly Myrick, administrative assistant for the airport, said she and Airpark Director Jim Little are hoping to bring in a pair of vintage aircraft to the facility for the July 25 celebration.

“We've talked to the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) in Midland, and they are willing to fly a pair of World War II aircraft in for the anniversary,” said Myrick. “One is a SNJ Fighter and the other is a PT-19 trainer aircraft. The PT-19 is an open cockpit plane, the kind you see in the movies where the pilot has the goggles and scarf on.”

And while looking at and examining this pair of restored aircraft is certainly a treat, Myrick said the airport administration is hoping to take it one step further.

“The plane-owners normally offer rides in the aircraft during these types of events, and that's something we're hoping to be able to secure for the anniversary,” said Myrick. “The PT-19 normally costs $200 for a 30-minute ride, and the SNJ Fighter usually runs about $300 for a 30-minute ride.”

Myrick said there's one simple kink in the plan, however.

“We really don't have a budget for this anniversary,” said said, “so we're trying to do everything on donations. We're asking local businesses and individuals to donate what they can so we can offer plane rides during the anniversary celebration.”

Myrick said she's aware of the immense challenge she and the airport administration are up against in raising the funds for the celebration, but refuses to shy away from it.

“This 80th anniversary is very special for us,” said Myrick. “There's so much history here, and we plan to have pictures and other memorabilia on display. We're not afraid to put some work into it. We just hope the community will work with us and help us accomplish our goals.”

For more information on the anniversary event, call the Big Spring Airport Terminal at 264-2362.

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it