Aviation in the Heartland: Will Rogers Fly-In Soars Back into Oologah
By: Tom Fink | Category: Recreation/Leisure | Issue: July 2022
During his lifetime, Will Rogers flew higher than most – both literally and figuratively. Rising to worldwide success in Vaudeville, films, newspapers and magazines, Rogers was a man of multiple talents and passions, with one of his passions being the once-fledgling industry of aviation. This summer, Rogers, and his love of flying will be recognized with the Will Rogers/Wiley Post Fly-In and National Day of Remembrance at the Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch in northeastern Oklahoma. “This is a traditional part of the Birthplace Ranch and the history of Will Rogers, as well as Wiley Post,” said Will Rogers Memorial Executive Director Tad Jones. “It’s been an honor for us to host this family-friendly event every year – we didn’t even cancel it during the COVID years – we managed to keep it going, and we’re thrilled to bring it back again this year.” Sponsored by the Cherokee Nation, the fly-in will begin early, with gates opening around 7:30 a.m. for the public to arrive and watch and marvel as more than 100 small-engine planes from across the state, and some from outside the state, arrive and land on the grounds of the Birthplace Ranch in nearby Oologah.
