Airport Fest shows why Warren County Airport is taking off

Flying the news: The free event features aircraft displays, airplane and helicopter rides, food trucks, live music and kids activities. This year's featured aircraft is the B-25 Mitchell bomber "Champagne Gal."

By the numbers: About 1,100 people attended the first Airport Fest in 2024, says airport authority vice president Doug Koenig. Attendance jumped to 4,000 last year.

• "We had people who said, 'I never knew there was an airport in Warren County,' and they come out, and then last year they brought their whole family."

The big picture: Airport Fest gives residents a closer look at that growth. Pilots and aircraft owners open their planes to visitors to answer questions about flying.

• More than 150 aircraft are based at the airport, up from fewer than 100 three years ago, Koenig says.
• That makes Warren County one of the largest airports in Ohio by number of based aircraft.
• Most are smaller propeller planes owned by individuals or flying clubs.

The airport's growth reflects Warren County's growth and the area's enthusiasm for aviation, Koenig said.

• "It has just taken off."

If you go: Airport Fest runs 10am-3pm Sept. 19 at the airport's John Lane Field, 2460 Greentree Road, Lebanon. Admission is free.