By SAMANTHA GHOLAR
sgholar@newssun.com
SEBRING - Aviation enthusiasts are gearing up to flock to Sebring for the ninth annual U.S. Sport Aviation Expo.
The annual event draws in thousands from all over the United States and the world. Last year's Expo drew more than 16,000 guests during its four-day run.
This year's Expo is also spread out over four days beginning Thursday and will highlight hundreds of aircraft and related items from throughout the country and world.
Exhibitors pile into to the Sebring Regional Airport to showcase their items for aviation enthusiasts, pilots and the general public.
"We're deep into our final preparations. The extended forecast looks like we will have great weather, and our vendors and exhibitors are excited to present their wares. It's all shaping up to be a great weekend of aviation activities," Expo director Jana Filip said.
The 80 indoor and 80 outdoor displays will feature some of the most up-to-date aviation-related items and equipment, and enables attendees to view and test out a number of different planes and items throughout the week.
The many well-loved flight demonstrations, fly-bys, plane rides and forums are just a handful of things taking place at the Sebring Regional Airport next week during this year's Expo. The event will also house a few keynote speakers on aviation.
Buzzing with plenty of activity for aviation enthusiasts, new and old, the Expo provides more than just thrills for plane lovers. History lovers will have the opportunity to tour, and may be even take a flight in, three historic World War II aircraft provided by the Wings of Freedom Tour at the Expo.
The newest addition to the Expo will be the Twilight Air Shows. The shows will offer precision flying exhibitions plus a comedy flying routine showcased by some famous names in the flying world: Hall of Famer aerobatic pilot Patty Wagstaff, Tiger Air Shows "Hotwire Harry" and "Sheriff Roscoe" along with the world's largest flying team the 12-member Team AeroDynamix. The Twilight Air Shows are sponsored by the Jarrett Automotive Group Foundation and will take place Friday, Jan. 18 and Saturday, Jan. 19 at 5 p.m.
Returning for its second year are the gourmet wine and cheese experiences. The food events were a big hit in its first appearance at last year's Expo so coordinators decided to bring it back for a second run. The Wine and Food Experience will be held Jan. 18-19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Tulius Hangar.
Opening ceremonies for the Aviation Expo will kick off at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Sebring Regional Airport main stage.
For more information visit www.sport-aviation-expo.com/.
Friday, January 11, 2013 - www.newssun.com/011113-sg-Air-Expo