Pancake Fly-in Unites Airpark and Pilot Community

Pilots throughout Florida gathered at the runway on Saturday, March 28, in support of the Airpark’s continued service, blueberry pancakes, and pleasant conversation. 

“There is something that is very constant with pilots: we love to fly, and we love to eat,” said IT specialist Victor Popiol, who flew in with friends. “Wherever you can go, and either walk to a restaurant, or there is a restaurant in the field, we will be there.” 

Friends of the Everglades Airpark returned the wildly popular ‘Pancake Fly-in’ tradition, which boasted over three dozen planes and dozens more guests. Though it hasn’t been long since the sale of the Airpark was halted, Friends of the Everglades Airpark remain vigilant in maintaining the site. 

“Collier County is letting us keep the Airpark, but the new major concern is the hangars,” said Friends of the Everglades board member Harry Henkle. “We need to replace the doors and fix up the facility, or else it gets harder and harder for pilots to stay.” 

The hangars, which have been in disarray since the last hurricane, could safely house airplanes from heat damage and flooding. Henkle says they would also encourage a tighter-knit aviation community, allowing pilots to stay the night in Everglades City, which could potentially stimulate an air-tour scene.  

“A group of people that flew down here ended up wanting to stay. They ate a meal at the Island Cafe, knocked their socks off, went over to Grimm's Seafood, bought stone crabs, and then went back. The Airpark has made an absolute impact. Several pilots have said, ‘Where could I spend the night?’ So the hotels will get business. They can go see the new visitor center, then go on a kayak, fly over the Everglades... maybe charter a boat: you name it.” 

Many aviators flew in for Everglades City’s picturesque scenery and cuisine. Birches Resort owner John Willard, from Maine, said, “It's just a lot of fun to come here. It's right on the water, beautiful approach, very pretty—and the pancakes are great. I'm a blueberry pancake fanatic.” 

The Airpark represents a safety net for the community, and aviators recognize its importance. 

“It’s a great emergency and fuel stop if you’re on your way to the Keys,” continued Willard. “The town likes it because if they have a storm, it’s a good way to get helicopters and airplanes in.” 

Many more pilots arrived in support of the Airpark’s continued service, maintaining its significance for pilots everywhere. 

“We flew in to support the airport because we heard they were going to close it. We were very upset. We love this area, and we love coming here,” said clinical pharmacist Yamil Cabrera, who flew in from Broward. 

“Any airport that closes is frustrating, because that means the community is shrinking.” 

For more information, visit Friends of the Everglades Airpark on Facebook.