SUN 'n FUN Fly-In, INC. Launches Year-Round Activities

Another reason to visit Florida!


SUN 'n FUN Fly-In, INC. Launches Year-Round Activities to Support Aviation Education Programs
SUN 'n FUN is not only Florida's largest Expo & Fly-In, it is a commitment to the future.


Lakeland, Florida — The SUN 'n FUN Board of Directors has approved a diverse and exciting spectrum of programs to be branded as; “SUN 'n FUN Education Programs: Aviation Style.” On Friday, July 27, (9:00 a.m.) at AirVenture 2012, SUN 'n FUN CEO and president, John R. "Lites" Leenhouts will take the podium at the EAA Press HQ to flesh out this ambitious set of programs. In addition to sharing insights specific to educational programs, Lites will also be talking about “Back to Grassroots,” activities that will commence in August and continue right up through the 39th Annual SUN 'n FUN International Fly-In & Expo scheduled for April 9-14, 2013 at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport.  SUN 'n FUN's mission is to share the aviation experience with people of all ages through education, information, and inspiration.  Lites will provide a laser-sharp description of what you can expect to see at SUN 'n FUN on your next visit as he extends a personal invitation to Visit Central Florida.

SUN 'n FUN is dedicated to providing an experience of real value to all aviators, exhibitors, sponsors, vendors, and families. 

Education Programs
By incorporating the rich history found in the Florida Air Museum Learning Center and utilizing motivational staff, volunteers, and educators, SUN 'n FUN is able to provide educational resources and opportunities throughout the year.

SUN 'n FUN created STEMtastics™ as a framework for development and implementation of our educational offerings. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) are the foundation of curriculums designed to teach kids the basics of flight while building self-esteem.  Students ages 7-12 are presented with age specific activities on the ground.  Older youth are offered free first flights through the Future Eagle Club and our Destination Aviation camp experience.  First Flights are also given free of charge to approximately 250 students annually at Wings 'n Things, an extension of the youth education programs, offered as a part of SUN 'n FUN's summer camps as well as at events conducted throughout the year.

The Central Florida Aerospace Academy (CFAA) is based on the SUN 'n FUN grounds. CFAA is a workforce academy public high school. Its students are offered a meaningful and content-rich education that inspires and motivates students at all levels. Students are challenged to reach high levels of achievement in STEM curriculums as preparation for high-tech careers in the fields of aviation and aerospace.  The Academy responds to the needs of industry by placing emphasis on teamwork, individual achievement, skill development, creativity, innovation, and critical thinking skills. With an enviable 100 percent graduation rate, CFAA's students are prepared to be productive and responsible members of the workforce. Students who maintain a 3.5 GPA are eligible to fly or to volunteer during the annual Fly-In.

The Lakeland AeroClub is a unique extracurricular activity available to students at CFAA. The club's intent is to enable students at CFAA to widen their opportunities in aviation by attaining their Sport Pilot or Private Pilot certificate.  Any student in Polk County, Florida is eligible for membership. Grants from the James C. Ray Scholarship Fund can pay as much as three-quarters of the cost of flight training for qualified students.  In keeping with the school's intent to teach responsibility and professionalism, the club members are given the reins, acting as board members and working with experienced aviation hands to manage and perform the day-to-day work of operating the club.  Club membership is specifically designed to be an experience that will pay dividends for the membership in the sky, on the ground, and throughout the member's personal and professional lives.

SUN 'n FUN Activities
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, SUN 'n FUN is providing a premier experience at each event on the ground and in the air.  Sponsors, exhibitors, guests and performers are offered southern hospitality and many opportunities to enjoy Florida sunshine.  Funds realized from events support the education programs.  Details of all events can be found at www.sun-n-fun.org.

Highlights of planned events on the SUN 'n FUN grounds include the following:

August 18th - The Lakeland AeroClub Back to School Event. Parents and Students will be up close and personal with SUN 'n FUN's Resident Jet Team, the Black Diamonds.

August 24th - Fly-In for Dinner and RAF Fire Hub Social

September 29th - Fly-In for Dinner and RAF Fire Hub Social

November 2nd - 4th - Wings 'n Things

November 9th - Hangar Door Canteen MASH
(Make Aviation Scholarships Happen) Theme

November 10th - Imperial Symphony Orchestra presents a patriotic Red White & Blue Veterans Tribute Concert on the SUN 'n FUN grounds with special ceremonies and air activity.

November 30th - December 1st - When Pigs Fly South - a Fly-In Barbeque with camping, music, motorcycles, car show and more.