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Gilroy
November 23, 2024

San Martin Airport Day is Oct. 26

Event supports youth scholarships

The fourth annual San Martin Airport Day and Food Truck Fly-In is scheduled for 9am-3pm Oct. 26 at the San Martin Airport. The free event features aircraft demonstrations; food offerings from local food trucks; live music; aircraft on display; skydiving demonstrations; RC aircraft performances; meet-and-greets with local pilots and flight schools; classic car show; silent auction; tethered hot air balloon rides (weather permitting, in the early morning before the event); and a beer and wine garden.

“This is another great opportunity for the public to mix with the aviation community on a day of flying fun, food, and family-friendly festivities at our own San Martin airfield,” said Niki Britton, co-organizer of the event. “This invitation comes with the hope of demonstrating to our neighbors the importance of having an airport in our community.”

The event also features a display of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s 2025 Giveaway Sweepstakes Airplane—a 1958 Cessna 182 that will undergo a 15-month restoration before being given away in a drawing next year. 

“Often the community outside the airport gates can miss how important an airfield can be,” said Joe McMurray, co-organizer of the event. “San Martin Airport has served as a staging area for Cal Fire helicopters during fire season, youngsters from Morgan Hill, San Martin and Gilroy have been given free flights at the airport through the Young Eagles program, and DART (Disaster Airlift Response Team)…has been staying prepared to help in the event of a disaster by being able to fly supplies into or out of our community.” 

Airport Day festivities are organized in part by the South County Airport Pilots Association (SCAPA), a local nonprofit that supports and promotes general aviation and the local airport. The event is also sponsored by Santa Clara County Airports, the San Martin Neighborhood Alliance and the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association. 

Also at the event, SCAPA will award three scholarships of $3,000 each to provide financial assistance for local students pursuing careers in aviation. 

The San Martin Airport is located at 13030 Murphy Ave. in San Martin. 

Staff Report
Staff Report
A staff member wrote, edited or posted this article, which may include information provided by one or more third parties.

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