Prepare for another adrenaline-fueled weekend as the Black Pilots of America return to Pine Bluff for their annual fly-in event, Operation Skyhook.
BPA chapters from across the nation will gather at the historic Grider Field at Pine Bluff Regional Airport for a weekend filled with competition and camaraderie.
Festivities kick off May 23 at 9:30 a.m. with a Welcome to Pine Bluff, followed by the Flour Bomb Drop competition starting at 11:15 a.m.
On May 24, attendees can watch the Pilot Proficiency event begin at 10 a.m.
May 25 will feature Balloon Burst and Spot Landing Competitions, commencing at 10 a.m.
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The excitement continues each day as BPA members volunteer to offer free “Young Eagle” flights, providing hundreds of eager kids with the chance to soar through the skies until 5 p.m. (weather permitting).
The weekend reaches its high point with an awards banquet the evening of May 25, where trophies will be presented to members for outstanding flying achievements, as well as to the chapter that accrues the most points. A special “Top Gun Award” will honor the pilot with the highest overall score.
In support of this event, the Pine Bluff Advertising and Promotion Commission has provided a $17,500 grant for the 2025 Operation Skyhook.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Black Pilots of America back to Pine Bluff for Operation Skyhook,” said Sheri Storie, executive director of the A&P commission. “This event not only bolsters our local economy but also strengthens community ties and fosters a spirit of pride among residents.”
All BPA events at Grider Field are free to the public.
Also, Grider Field Restaurant will be open May 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and May 24 and May 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“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 serves as the primary source of funding for the Pine Bluff Convention Center, which is maintained and operated by the Pine Bluff Civic Auditorium Complex Commission,” according to the news release.