A massive piece of aviation history returns to the Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Thursday through Sunday, June 15th through the 18th, . One of America’s first mass-produced airliners, the Ford Tri-Motor, will be on display as well as offering flights and photo-ops for those interested in experiencing the energy, passion, and excitement of the Roaring ‘20s.
The Ford Tri-Motor, nicknamed the “Tin Goose” was designed specifically to provide another new market opportunity for Henry Ford’s Ford Motor Company in the post-World War I era. After realizing the potential for luxurious mass air transportation, Ford began to produce the first three Tri-Motors featuring an open cockpit before transitioning over to enclosed cabins.
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport Executive Director Vincent DesJardins says, “After the successful inaugural visit in August of 2021, we began discussing its return to Southwest Michigan. When you think of the state of Michigan you likely think of Ford and the role they’ve played in our history, the Ford Tri-Motor being on-site provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see and experience that in person.”
Fly On The Ford is open to families, and will offer opportunities for rides on the Ford Tri-Motor Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.. Each flight will take approximately 30 minutes, 15 of which will be spent in the air. Passengers are required to remain seated while in the air, but each seat is located next to a window providing spectacular views of the Southwest Michigan scenery. Cameras are welcome and encouraged onboard.
Those interested in taking flight inside the Ford Tri-Motor can purchase tickets in advance – $95 per adult, $65 per child 17 and under at FlyTheFord.org or by calling 877-952-5395. Walk up tickets will be available for an additional charge.
About Southwest Michigan Regional Airport
Southwest Michigan Regional Airport is home to over 75 privately owned aircraft being utilized for business and pleasure; as well as a Fortune 200 companies’ fleet of international aircraft. Over 400 companies from the United States and Canada annually fly their aircraft into Southwest Michigan Regional Airport (KBEH), which the Michigan Department of Transportation estimates contributed to over $65 million to the local economy. The Airport also provides charter flights and in times of medical emergencies; transporting the critically ill or as organ donor transport. The US Coast Guard utilizes the airport during refueling operations on Lake Michigan. To learn more about the Airport visit SWMIAirport.com/
