Montrose, COLO.—Montrose Regional Airport is gearing up for the much-anticipated Tribute to Aviation next weekend, Sept. 16-17. This crowd-favorite event is back this year after a break for a major airport construction and remodel project at Montrose Regional Airport. Tribute to Aviation is one of the largest static displays in the western United States featuring both military and civilian aircraft.
“This year's Tribute to Aviation is even more special to the airport team as we will have the north expansion open for the public to view," said Director of Aviation Lloyd Arnold. "This is an event for the whole family, as well as an opportunity to ride the escalators and view the new construction. I am grateful to our sponsors for helping bring this fun, educational event to the community for the seventh year. The past two years have been major formative years for the airport—we are near completion on a $40 million expansion and we earned the title of the busiest airport west of the Hwy 550 corridor. The future is bright for Montrose Regional Airport and we look forward to showing our community these improvements at Tribute."
A static display of aircraft is a unique event where spectators have the opportunity to tour aircraft, meet and talk with the pilots and crew, and get up-close and personal with nearly every aircraft in the military's fleet. The event is proudly presented by Montrose Regional Airport, Montrose County, Atlantic Aviation, Pepsi Beverage Company, City of Montrose, Horsefly Brewing Company, Phelanies, Western Skyways, Holiday Inn Express, Jacobs, Montrose Forest Products, FCI Constructors, Inc., Reef Parking, and DMEA/Elevate.
The Tribute to Aviation takes place on Saturday, Sept. 16 and Sunday, Sept. 17th from 9 am to 4 pm each day. The event is free to the public and includes free parking for the event as well as a free autograph page for children (while supplies last). Several food, beverage, and specialty item vendors will also be present. For more information and a complete list of aircraft attending, please visit tributetoaviation.com or fb.com/coloradotributetoaviation. Overflow parking with shuttle service will be available to the north of the airport; please follow the signs.
Dexter the Dog will be present Saturday morning to greet attendees. Additionally, the Commemorative Air Force will also be present with both the SoNoran Beauty SNB-5 on Sunday. This aircraft offers short flights around the area in group or single purchase options. For more information on the SNB-5, please visit their website.
The Montrose Regional Airport is located at 2100 Airport Rd, Montrose, CO 81401. Please be advised that commercial flights scheduled during this time will occur as normal; travelers are encouraged to arrive earlier than usual to accommodate the event traffic. Also, with the increase in air traffic on Thursday and Friday, please expect significant aircraft noise as these large planes arrive at the airport.