SMITHVILLE, TX — The Smithville Crawford Municipal Airport, also known by its airport identifier “84R,” hosted the vibrant 18th Annual Fly In, attracting over 60 aircraft and hundreds of aviation enthusiasts may 11th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hosted by Friends of 84R, a nonprofit supporting the airport, the event is a staple in the community, offering a family-friendly environment where pilots from various locations gather to share their passion for aviation. The Fly In serves as a stage for both pilots and the public to engage, share stories, and foster a deeper understanding of the aviation industry.

This year’s lineup was particularly notable, featuring a mix of historic and contemporary aircraft including a WWII-era C-45 Beechcraft, a T6, a vintage biplane, and a modern Cirrus Vision SF50 jet with a unique V tail. The event also showcased three float planes like the SeaRey, two air ambulance helicopters from Travis County Starlight and PSI serving Bastrop County, a U.S. Army Blackhawk, and several other helicopters used for aerial tours.

Activities throughout the day included a candy drop from a helicopter, which was a crowd favorite, along with helicopter rides, concessions, raffle prizes, and ample opportunities for attendees to take photos and hear firsthand flying experiences from the pilots.

The Smithville Crawford Municipal Airport has seen considerable growth since its establishment by a group of WWII veterans in the late 1940s. Over the decades, the airport has expanded significantly, supporting not only local aviation but also contributing to community activities like the Annual Fly In.

This event underscores the airport’s role as an asset to the community, offering insights into aviation’s past and present, and sparking interest in its future. As the Annual Fly In continues to grow, it promises to bring even more exciting experiences to Smithville and its visitors each year.

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