Spring Break!

Every year around this time, about 4000 airplanes descend on Lakeland, Florida (about halfway between Orlando and Tampa) for Sun ‘N’ Fun, a fly-in and convention that many call “spring break for pilots.” David headed south to catch the action.

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Daily air shows (above two pics) are always a highlight, but this year, the show was undeniably stolen by the USAF Thunderbirds (top), who pulled off some mind-bogglingly precise maneuvers in their F-16 Fighting Falcons.

Above, a short video to give you a sense of the action.

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When flying to place called Lakeland, you can’t go wrong with a seaplane. Sun ‘n’ Fun even has a “splash-in” to complement the fly-in. Above, a pair of Aviat Huskys.

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The Vintage Wings section is full of eye candy, like this pristine Boeing Stearman Model 75.

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What do get when you cross a tin boat with a lawn chair – and a lawnmower engine? Beats us. Somebody should probably ask these folks.

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David connects with some fellow Canucks – the gents of Found Aircraft, from Parry Sound, Ontario. In the background is Found’s Expedition E350 – newly certified, and demo-ready. David even got a ride in the terrific new bush plane.

Airshow images courtesy of Robert Shank Photography.

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