The Black Pilots of America will touch down again in Pine Bluff for their annual fly-in event, Operation Skyhook, on Memorial Day weekend.
Member chapters from all corners of the country converge at historic Grider Field at Pine Bluff Regional Airport for a weekend of aviation competition and camaraderie, according to a news release.
The activities begin on May 24 at 9:30 a.m. with the official welcome to Pine Bluff, followed by the Pilot Proficiency Competition at 11:15 a.m. On May 25, the Flour Bomb Drop begins at 10 a.m., and the Balloon Burst and Spot Landing Competition will begin at 10 a.m. May 26.
Immediately following the daily competitions, BPA members volunteer to give free airplane rides – “Young Eagle” flights – until 5 p.m. Operation Skyhook events at Grider Field have free admission.
Also, Grider Field Restaurant will be open May 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and May 25-26 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The weekend culminates the evening of May 26 with an awards banquet where trophies are awarded to the members who have demonstrated their superior flying skills, as well as the chapter with the highest accumulated points. There is also an individual “Top Gun Award” for the supreme pilot accumulating the highest number of points.
The Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission awarded BPA a $15,000 grant for event funding for the 2024 Operation Skyhook.
“We take pride in supporting the Black Pilots of America and are delighted to welcome them back ‘home’ to Pine Bluff for Operation Skyhook,” said Sheri Storie, executive director for the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission. “This event not only enhances our local economy, but it also unites us and fosters a strong sense of community pride.”
The Holiday Inn Express has been the designated host hotel for this event for more than two decades.
“The Black Pilots of America consistently bring revenue to our hotel, which is always a plus,” said Kimberly Tanner, general manager. “I enjoy their presence every year, and their events provide a joyful atmosphere where families of all ages can have fun. They have a significant impact on the community through their engaging activities and informative presentations.”
The Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission provides funding for the purpose of promoting tourist facilities and events that fit within the commission’s mission of creating economic vitality through tourism and developing unique visitor experiences. The A&P Commission also provides the majority of funding for the Pine Bluff Convention Center facilities maintained and operated by the Pine Bluff Civic Auditorium Complex Commission.