BETHEL — The Regional Airport's fourth annual Fall Foliage Scenic Flights Community Event has been moved to Sunday, Oct. 21, due to adverse weather conditions.

The event, which is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., was originally scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 20. Tony Milligan, airport coordinator, said these types of events can be difficult to schedule since they're weather-dependent. He added that while it's still legal to fly in the rain and wind, it may not be enjoyable for children or first-time fliers.

According to Milligan, qualified volunteer pilots will offer the public airplane rides in exchange for a minimum $25 donation to cover costs. The rides will encompass the Bethel region as well as towns in the immediate area and are expected to last around 15 minutes. Milligan also suggests those who wish for a smoother ride arrive earlier rather than later.

"The wind tends to pick up later in the day, once the sun comes out," Milligan said.

The event is a public benefit to promote general aviation and for the community to learn more about the airport. Milligan said that people in the area sometimes come to these events with misconceptions about the airport. 

"Some people believe that the airport is 'members only,'" Milligan said, "but we're a public airport, open 24-7. Anyone can come and talk to the people who work here about the airport."

Milligan added that he hopes the flights and the behind-the-scene tours of the airport will help people have a better understanding of what local commercial airports are all about.

In addition to the flight, burgers and hot dogs will be available.

For more information or weather postponement, call 512-5552.

mdaigle@sunjournal.com