Well hell, it seems I have killed the thread, certainly not my intention. I forget sometimes that not all of you have been around long enough or have had any association with the 6Y9 Fly-in to know what is being discussed. Other than being a volunteer and good friend of the Frederick's, I am not tangibly associated with the 6Y9 Airport or the non-profit that owns it. 6Y9 is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, in the town of Sidnaw. Prickett Grooms Airfield dates back to the mid 40's and was used as a training field. After closing in 2004, the Frederick's re-opened the field in 2006. Since the field is owned by a non-profit, an annual fly-in was established in 2006. Food and 6Y9 apparel is sold at this event to raise money. This money is used for fuel to power the mowers, weedeaters, and bulldozer that are used to maintain the field and upgrades to the airport facilities. Over the years Brad has lengthened the runway and added a drainage system to help with standing water. Diz has transformed the old Schoolhouse to include restroom facilities with shower and and killer pilots lounge, and what we use as a music room.
While some people fly into 6Y9 just for the day, over the years some of us have made it into a full weekend. After flying the Arrow to 6Y9 in 2013 we have made the trip in our van and two different motor homes. This years trek will make the 6th year we have attended, and we have some that have made the trip many more years than that. Many people fly-in Thursday and stay till leaving on the following Monday. Some choose to camp on the field next to their planes and some choose to rent one of the cabins at "Sidnaw Station". A quick PM request to
@Dizaster will help you figure out what options are available for lodging.
Those that stay over Saturday evening will get a ride to "Hoppys" for a great meal, adult refreshment and a hell of a good time with fellow pilots and their significant others. You will also need to put your mark on the 6Y9 Ceiling tile.
We spend a lot of time hangar flying in the Pilot Lounge and you may also hear music coming from the old piano, guitars, and even a Ukuleles. Some of us have been known to sing into the wee hours of the morning.
The UP is a magical place that my wife and I love to visit. Two years ago sitting around a camp fire we were treated to about 45 minutes of the Northern Lights. And on a quiet evening you will surely hear the call of a Squatch in the distant woods. I did mention adult refreshment didn't I?
It's a long trip for some but if you want to have a great end of summer experience make the trip and join us all for a wonderful adventure.
I would be happy to answer any questions you might have and if I don't know will connect you with someone that does.