Whether you enjoy examining the intricacies of a model train set, watching planes soar through the air or checking out some dream cars, Plant City’s Planes, Trains and Automobiles has something to offer enthusiasts of all modes of transportation.
For the third consecutive year, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event, in conjunction with the Plant City Airport and Tampa International Airport. This year’s event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at Plant City Airport, 4009 Airport Road.
After drawing about 2,500 people its inaugural year, the event doubled last spring, and chamber President Marion Smith expects an even larger crowd this year.
“We hope to continue to see it grow,” Smith said. “This is just a great event for the entire family.”
That’s something chamber board member and event chairperson Jason Jones set out to do when organizing the event for the first time three years ago.
“This is a free event, and especially the way the economy is, this is an affordable and fun thing to do,” Jones said. “We like to think that everyone, young and old, will enjoy something at the event.”
According to Jones, more than 100 remote-controlled planes of all sizes are expected. Those planes will be flown by their owners throughout the day, with the large planes flying between 10 to 11 a.m.
“The big ones require a runway to take off,” Jones said.
Several full-sized planes — from antique to military — also will be on display, including a T-6, a single-engine training aircraft that was used during World War II.
“Everyone seems very excited about seeing that one,” Jones said.
For the train lovers, a large scale model train set will be on display from CSX Railroad along with the Henry B. Plant Railroad Society.
“The kids always love watching the train display,” Smith said.
For the auto enthusiasts, there will be plenty to take in as well, with a display that will feature both classic and exotic models.
“We usually have a few of the cars lined up around one of the planes, so it makes for an interesting display,” Jones said.
There will be plenty of activities for children, including a kids clinic sponsored by Lowe’s Home Improvement. A flight simulator will let guests experience the thrill of piloting an aircraft, and 150 children and teens, on a first-come, first-serve basis, will have the opportunity to experience a free flight in one of the planes.
The Plant City Police K-9 Unit and Plant City Fire and Rescue also will host demonstrations, along with members of the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.
For the past two years, the event has allowed local and surrounding area Boy Scout troops to earn aviation badges.
That tradition will continue this year, along with offering the chance to earn a search and rescue badge, thanks to the presentations from the police and fire departments.
Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.
PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 23
WHERE: Plant City Airport; 4009 Airport Road
DETAILS: A collection of displays, including classic and exotic cars, remote controlled and full-sized airplanes and model train sets. The Plant City Police K-9 Unit and Plant City Fire and Rescue also will be hosting presentations. Flight demonstrations and free flights for the first 150 children are also available.