Warbird Information Exchange

Air Zoo to offer free airplane rides to veterans in Kalamazoo
By Al Jones | Kalamazoo Gazette
June 02, 2010, 8:49AM
PORTAGE — This summer, veterans who served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War will have the chance to take flight, for free.

Beginning June 29, veterans will be able to fly in a Boeing-Stearman N2S-5 Kaydet, courtesy of the Air Zoo and pilot/sponsor Alan Wright. The Kaydet is an open cockpit aircraft that served as the U.S. Navy’s primary trainer during World War II.

“We are thrilled to offer free flights to those who have sacrificed so much while serving our country,” said Bob Ellis, president and CEO of the Air Zoo.

Flights will take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays through Sept. 1, weather permitting. They are open to veterans who have not previously participated with the Air Zoo’s free veteran flights. Flights will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, and those who are flying must sign a waiver.

A maximum of five flights per day will be offered.

For more information or to reserve a flight, call the Air Zoo at 269-350-2815.

The Air Zoo is located at 6151 Portage Road, Portage. It is a full-service attraction offering a restaurant, gift shop and banquet facilities. General admission is free. Unlimited attractions and experiences may be purchased with a wristband package or can be purchased individually with tickets.