David Utley and his son Chris are about to roll out a beautiful 1929 Fleet Model 2.  The plane is SN# 74 (#75 is hanging in the Smithsonian!)  They have owned it an have been working on it for one and a half years, but this us just the end of a long restoration saga. Originally discovered and owned by a pilot that had previously won Best in Show at Oshkosh on other aircraft, after disassembling, cleaning, and starting the process health issues forced the transfer to Hugo Bartell who completed the fuselage, engine, and lower wing. After it came to Dave and Chris, four hours a day for 1.5 years have almost finished the process. After a rig check, inspection, and sign off the unveiling, roll out, and first flight will happen sometime this summer.  The Fleet will be on display at the Bremerton airshow. This will be especially appropriate as the original name of Bremerton National Airport was . . . Fleet Field.  Check out the plaque in the terminal building.

On July 11th, local EAA chapter 406 will unveil and roll out its completed Sonex eXenos. The plane is an ‘e’ Xenos because instead of a 80 HP Volkswagen engine, it has an 80 HP electrical motor. The motor, battery, and control system were salvaged from a Zero motorcycle. Mike Friend, the mentors of chapter 406, and several interested youth and their parents have spent 3 years bringing this project to fruition. Friday, July 11, is the practice day of the Bremerton Airshow. There will be BBQs at several hangars, an overhead airshow practice, and the roll out and display of the eXenos motorglider.  The eXenos will also be on display during the airshow.

Every year 130 Bonanzas and Barons travel from LaCrosse, Wisconsin to Airventure in Oshkosh in a ‘mass arrival’.  Originally just so friends could camp together, it has become the easiest way for pilots to arrive at Oshkosh, and the quickest way for The tower controllers to get that many airplanes on the ground. 

In order to join the group, however, one must practice and qualify so there are several clinics held around the country.  The last, and best (?) is held at Bremerton.  20 Bonanzas will arrive on the ramp Thursday, June 19th this year.  Flights will commence about 10 AM on Friday the 20th and go through Sunday the 22nd.  Pilots are asked to be aware of flights of 2, 3, and more aircraft practicing over the Hood Canal and making their way back to KPWT. 

December 2, 2023 at Bremerton National Airport
Hosted by Bremerton Pilots Association, EAA Chapter 406, and Avian Flight Center

BPA Holiday Party 2023 in the books!  Thank you everyone for your joyful attendance, stunning attire, and generous donations to the Youth Aviation Scholarship Fund.
(Video includes costume contest photos at around minute 2:20, and portraits around minute 4:40)