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The fouth annual Wings Over the Big South Fork Air Show and Fly In was attended by picture perfect weather, dazzling aerobatic performances, plenty of food and a record 15,000 visitors. According to organizers this marks the 3rd year in a row in which attendance has at least doubled over the previous year.

Wings 2007 played host to more than 25 vendors and exhibitors offering everything from kids games to helicopter and airplane rides, educational displays to funnel cakes and bar-be-que. It also attracted more visiting airplanes than ever before.

Visiting airplanes are important, according to Friends of the Big South Fork executive director James E. Taylor, because “they represent adventurous people with discretionary income discovering our region.” Taylor said he was shocked to see how many hits across the country come up from a Google Search of “Wings Over Big South Fork”. The show is definitely getting attention throughout the Southeast, he said.

“We still have opportunities for improvement” said Friends President Don Stansberry, III, “And we’re already working on those for next year.” According to Stansberry, the most significant problem resulted from an FAA safety requirement that the main road leading into the airport be closed during actual performances. “We need to publicize the schedule better next time and we have to provide the Rescue Squad more places to park cars. But they did a great job with what they had and we know where we need improvement for next time.”

Wings ’07 is believed to be the largest event ever held in Scott County in terms of attendance.

In addition to the many local sponsors and vendors, organizers would like to thank the Rescue Squad, chamber of commerce, Mid-County Fire Department, Scott County Sheriff’s Department, Air Force ROTC and Civil Air Patrol Cadets, their parents and leaders and everyone else who pulled together to make the show a success.

The next Wings Over the Big South Fork will be a two day event on September 13 and 14, 2008.