More than 60 received free airplane rides and others came out to watch the plane during the first ever Ralph Mirka Day held at Salem Leckrone Field.
Airport Manager Bob Tate says perfect flying weather made the event even better.
“I think it’s gone exceptionally well. We scheduled it so people had an idea of what time slot they were looking at and so far we have stayed pretty close to that. I don’t think we have turned anyone away with walk ups, if there was an empty spot, we were able to get them all in.”
A 2022 Salem Community High School graduate Rylan Crane who started his flying career at the Salem Airport and now attends the flight school program at Southeast Missouri State was giving the rides.
“I have always loved airplanes. I’ve always gone to air shows. I always wanted to be a military pilot at first, but this is where I ended up and I absolutely love it. I’m hoping to end up with United or American Airlines in the future after I get my required hours. That’s where I hope to go.”
One of those taking a ride with his kids was Cameron Brown.
“It’s pretty good. I’ve been on commercial flights before so being on bigger planes you don’t feel the turbulence so much but being on a smaller aircraft like this you felt every small bump. But enjoyable to see the City of Salem from up top.”
The Airport Authority plans to hold the events twice a year going forward. Merka had the event named after him due to his sponsorship of scholarships for those wanting to pursue a career in aeronautics. In addition to creating more interest, the board also hopes some may want to pursue getting their pilots license at the Salem Airport.
