Festival of Flight Returns for LGB’s 100th Anniversary

By Jose Cervantes

The 2024 Festival of Flight will return to Long Beach Airport (LGB) on Saturday, Oct. 19, to mark the grand finale of the airport’s 100th-anniversary celebrations.

This free event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the west end of the airfield located at 3590 East Wardlow Road, where guests can enjoy aviation displays, music, food and entertainment.

Since its inception in 2013, the Festival of Flight, formerly known as the Fly-In, has become a beloved tradition for Long Beach residents. This year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience, as described by Mayor Rex Richardson, who considers it a family favorite.

Councilwoman Megan Kerr echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the festival’s significance in celebrating the airport’s rich history and promising future.

Some of the aircraft to be displayed will be:

The KC-46 Pegasus, an air-to-air military refueling aircraft.

The Flabob Express DC-3, built in 1943 with a rich past that includes carrying Winston Churchill and the Royal Family.

A modified Lockheed L-1011 TriStar, the only operational L-1011.

The Condor Squadron, founded in 1965 by WWII fighter pilots, will perform two flyovers.

The Festival of Flight offers entertainment for all ages, including live music, children’s activities, food and beer trucks and helicopter rides for purchase.

Essential Info for Attendees

Location and Time: The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3590 East Wardlow Road, located at the west end of the airfield. Make sure to use this address for navigation, as entering “Long Beach Airport” into your maps might lead you to the wrong side of the airport.

Parking

Onsite Parking: Limited parking is available near the event entrance at the intersection of East Wardlow Road and Globemaster Way, starting at 9 a.m.

Shuttle Parking: Overflow parking is located at 3880 Kilroy Airport Way (ground level). Free shuttle services will transport visitors to and from the event.

Bicycle parking will be available onsite.

What to Bring and Wear

Water and Sunscreen: Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the event is outdoors.

Sensible Shoes: Be prepared for walking, as the event spans a large area.

Appropriate Clothing: Dress comfortably for the weather, as the event will proceed rain or shine.

Items listed on the TSA prohibited items list are not allowed at the Festival of Flight. While service animals are welcome, please leave pets at home as the hot airfield pavement may be unsafe for them.

Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Accessibility information is available on the Long Beach Airport website.

For any inquiries or further information, please contact Jose Cervantes at JoseC.Press@pm.me

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Beachcomber

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