Florida’s DeLand Municipal Airport to build sport aviation complex

The complex will be a year-round commerce center and a premier destination for manufacturers, dealers, aircraft owners, and aviation novices, said Jana Filip, sport aviation administrator for the airport.

DeLand is kicking off its new mission by hosting a Sport Aviation Showcase Nov. 3 through 5. The show will feature 98 vendors for its first outing, Filip said, though it is intended to be an annual event and will accommodate additional numbers as the need arises.

Light sport aircraft, ultralights, microlights, powered parachutes, trikes, weight-shift control, fixed-wing aircraft, and a special display of electric aircraft will be featured. Demonstration flights will be conducted each day of the show, along with educational forums and guest speakers.

Swift Fuels will be the sole supplier of unleaded aviation fuel at the show, Filip said.

Under-wing camping will be available, Filip said. She said the airport hopes to offer on-the-grounds camping for recreational vehicles in the future.

Filip said DeLand’s commitment to sport aviation, the city’s proximity to Orlando, and the November weather will set it apart from other shows. The U.S. Sport Aviation Expo’s annual show is held in January in Sebring.

DeLand Municipal Airport has dedicated 40 acres to the sport aviation complex, Filip said. Phase 1 of construction is underway, with six commercial-use hangars, 21 private T-hangars, and storage hangars planned. Phases 2 and 4 will include additional private T-hangars and storage hangars, as well as facilities for educational and training programs. A central facility will be made available to the homebuilding community so that they can conduct activities involving hazardous materials such as welding, torch cutting, soldering, painting, and fuel transfer.

“This is being designed specifically for the sport aviation industry,” Filip said.

For more information on the village or the showcase, see the website.