Aerobatics camp trains near Ephrata

EPHRATA — If you’re seeking a fun, free, outdoor activity, catch the state’s International Aerobatics Club’s training camp starting Sunday at the Port of Ephrata. On Sunday, pilots normally don’t start flying until the afternoon hours, said Mike Wren, the port’s manager.

On Monday, the first day of camp officially starts and takes place daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., lasting through May 29. Pilots from the Pacific Northwest and Canada take part.

On average, between 10 and 15 specialty-type airplanes participate and it takes two shifts to make it through camp, he explained. “Some of them might be new at aerobatics, while a majority of the guys have been doing it a long time,” Wren commented. “The public can come out and watch any day.”

He described the planes as “beautiful, with pretty flashy paint jobs.” For the activity, the port has an aerobatic box, a space of air 3,300 square feet per side, marked on the ground with concrete marks.

“I don’t think people realize how uncommon it is to have an aerobatic box, in a set up that’s so organized and safe,” he commented. This year, the club and the port are working to integrate some activities with the community.

On May 27, some elementary school students are visiting the port and a young Eagles flight takes place May 29. It was unclear Thursday if there was an age cut off date for the Eagles flight.

The club returns to Ephrata Aug. 20-27 for the Canadian American championship.