The International Seaplane Fly-In got its start in 1973 when Greenville was but a speck on the world map and a few bush pilots made a living flying sportsmen in and out of this remote area. Very few roads existed here at the time. It was during some down time on a wintry day when a few Greenville pilots thought it might be a good time to invite like-minded pilots to the area for a weekend of fun and flying.
A tradition was born when David Quam (a past president of the Seaplane Pilots Assn.), Duane Lander, Telford Allen, Chip Taylor, Dick Folsom and Charlie Coe – truly one of the last of the late, great bush pilots -- got the first Fly-In off the ground. It turned out to be a great success. Pilots from around the country started making it an annual run. By 1995, International Seaplane Fly-In became a non-profit corporation. Its purpose is to promote fellowship, personal contact, and unification among seaplane pilots, and recreational and competitive events, including at least one annual Fly-In.
Today, besides the Cessnas, Cubs and Beavers, some spectacular examples of rare planes make a showing. Those have included a traditional 1944 Grumman Goose. It is not unusual to see a Caravan or two, as well as many classic and experimental seaplanes. The design and diversity of these beauties, combined with the knowledge of the pilots flying them, make a tremendous weekend for the flying enthusiast.
Volunteer with Katahdin Wings!
The Katahdin Wings will have an info/merchandise booth once again, and we hope you'll be able to join us. This is a really fun weekend of seaplane flying contests, an aviation expo, a townwide craft fair and just a very fun festive weekend in the great Maine North Woods.
We traditionally sign up for two-hour shifts to staff the booth on Saturday, Sept. 6. We have a few volunteers so far for the following slots:
8-10 am
10 am - noon
Noon - 2 pm
2-4 pm
Ideally we like to have at least two people per shift so there's lots of chances to step in and help out. If you would like to help out either Friday or Saturday, please contact us and let us know which shift you can help with.
Come for a large gathering of Van's RVs and other experimentals. All aircraft welcome! We’ll also have helicopter rides and Young Eagle flights, and display booths of aviation organizations.