The U.S. Sport Aviation Expo opens in Sebring, Florida, this Thursday, with a full schedule of workshops, forums and events through Saturday. Exhibitors will have all their latest airplanes and accessories on display, and the show offers a chance for serious buyers to check out and even test-fly their favorite light-sport designs. New this year, show organizer Beverly Glarner told AVweb in a podcast interview this week, visitors will enter through the airport Galleria, where exhibits and vendors will be housed, and the airport’s unique art collection will be on display. Also, exams will be offered on-site for 2nd- and 3rd-class medicals. Pilots can reserve a slot in advance at the Expo website.
Forums are offered on a wide range of topics, from how to fabric-cover an aircraft, to tips on buying the right LSA for you, to how to maintain your engine. Presenters include aerobatics champion Patty Wagstaff, aviation humorist and author Rod Machado, Peggy Chabrian of Women in Aviation and many more. A drone race will be held, with observers offered a unique viewing platform, beneath a huge net set in the middle of the track. “Racing drones will fly all around and directly over the spectators’ heads with this original and unique track design,” said Rhett Jarrett, Drone Zone chairman. “At the same time, live camera views will be displayed on monitors for the spectators, along with scoring and a professionally produced live broadcast.” A display area for homebuilt aircraft also is available, with advance registration. And as always, pilots who fly in are welcome to camp out under the wing. AVweb staffers will be on-site to cover the show from start to finish, so watch this space for news.
