Rangeley commissioners discuss community "fly‑in" event to showcase airport

Rangeley Airport Commission members spent a substantial portion of their Oct. 27 meeting discussing plans for a community event at the airport that commission members described as a "fly‑in" rather than a formal airshow.

"I don't think it should be dependent on good weather," said Mark, a commission member, describing a concept that would include static aircraft displays, food trucks and vendor booths so the event could proceed even if flying conditions were marginal. Commissioners discussed reaching out to known vendor organizers and local groups to replicate the model used at the nearby logging museum.

The conversation covered event features and logistics: a focal aircraft or centerpiece (several members mentioned a possible DC‑3 appearance), a vendor area, and family activities such as a candy drop for children. Commissioners urged coordination with the Chamber of Commerce to avoid scheduling conflicts with other town events and suggested asking the select board for an entertainment permit once a date is selected. One participant noted that the logging museum historically charged vendors about $50; commissioners discussed keeping most of the airport event budget in reserve for future, larger iterations.

Commission members also noted volunteers and regular participants who had previously offered to help. Beth Haley Smith of the Furbish House signaled willingness to assist, and Scott Keith was listed among volunteers who had already offered support. The commission asked staff to bring a proposed date and basic plan to the select board and the chamber for scheduling approval before applying for the event permit.

The commission did not adopt any formal motion related to event funding or dates during the meeting; members said more coordination is required before spending or permitting actions.