Augusta city council voted Oct. 1 to approve the 2026 Rod Trowbridge Memorial Fly‑In at the Augusta Airport, with staff and organizers noting several items remain subject to FAA review and separate permits.

Randy, speaking for event organizers and the airport, said the event team sought council's approval to secure permitting and to begin coordination earlier than in past years. “We are here for approval from city council today for this event, but this is kind of step one,” a staff member said, adding that the organizers will work in tandem with the FAA and public safety regarding a common‑consumption area and other event elements.

Highlights from last year's event included Young Eagles flights that gave hundreds of children introductory flights; Randy said 53 children flew last year and organizers served about 400 breakfasts. He said last year's attendance was “over 2,000” and organizers hope to grow to about 3,000 attendees. Randy discussed ideas under consideration for 2026 — bands, concerts and a fireworks display — and said fireworks and some other elements will require additional approvals and funding or sponsorships.

Staff and the organizer said they will require overnight security on the ramp to protect aircraft and property and will coordinate parking with local businesses as needed. Council approved the event and staff affirmed that final FAA approvals and any requests to use the city's common‑consumption area will be completed before the event date.

Motion to approve the 2026 Rod Trowbridge Memorial Fly‑In passed on a voice vote.