Putnam County Airport Appreciation Days

The Putnam County Airport Appreciation Days is a family-friendly aviation event held at the Putnam County Regional Airport in Greencastle, Indiana, on September 6-7, 2025. It welcomes aviation enthusiasts of all ages with a variety of activities including free Young Eagle airplane rides for youth ages 8-17, bi-plane and helicopter rides, live music, and community events[1][5].

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 6, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, September 7[1][4]. It is hosted by the Putnam County Airport Authority and PDM Aviation LLC and includes participation from the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Chapter 1374, which conducts the annual Young Eagle Rally. Kids who participate receive a free airplane ride with a certificate and logbook; a parent or guardian must be present[1].

The weekend’s schedule highlights include:

• Saturday 9:00 a.m.: Opening with a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Covered Bridge Harmony[1].
• 9:30 a.m.: Beyond Homeless Inc. Flight for the Homeless 5K run starts, with registration available on site or online[1].
• Saturday and Sunday: Paid rides available for adults and younger children, including Cessna 172 flights and bi-plane rides in a Stearman offered by Cliff Robinson’s PDM Aviation.

The event is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with handicapped access available at the airport venue[1].

Regarding the atmosphere, the event combines the excitement and charm of a small community airport meet with an educational and fun aviation environment, suitable for families and hobbyists alike. There is a convivial, aviation-focused vibe that mixes nostalgia (bi-plane rides) with the excitement of flight experiences for children and adults.

The Putnam County Airport Appreciation Days likely originated from local efforts to celebrate and promote general aviation in the Putnam County area, fostering community engagement and aviation interest. The involvement of local organizations such as EAA Chapter 1374 suggests a longstanding tradition of encouraging youth participation in aviation.

In summary, this two-day festival offers varied aviation-related activities with live music, community runs, free youth flights, bi-plane and helicopter rides, all set in the friendly environment of the Putnam County Regional Airport, creating a welcoming event for families and aviation fans.