Despite the overcast morning, the Friday Harbor Airport buzzed with activity Saturday, Aug. 24 for the annual Friday Harbor Airport Fly-In.

“We haven’t done a full tally, but my estimates are well over 1,000 people,” Todd Nicholson, director of the Port of Friday Harbor, said.

Attendees were able to get up close and personal with vintage and experimental aircraft. There were even opportunities for daredevils to take rides on the aircraft. Bi-planes, Nicholson said, continued giving rides to people for over two hours after the official closing fo the fly-in. A ribbon-cutting for new installation of electric carports was also held.

“Ryan from the San Juan Conservation District and the electric car club were a huge hit,” Nicholson said.

There were exhibits, open hangars, demos and refreshments, some provided by Vic’s Drive-In and Friday Harbor Espresso, available.

The fun began with a pancake breakfast and commercial airline operators emergency services and medivac services had information available. There were activities for kids organized by Island Rec as well.

While Nicholson considers the event a success, next year, he said, they are considering moving the date to earlier in the season in part so that the Black Jacks, antique military planes, are able to attend. The Port is also considering limiting advertising to the local area next year, he said, noting they are not trying to attract people from off-island.

“This event is really for community members to come down and have some fun, see the airport and enjoy some community activities,” Nicholson said.