MIDWEST LSA EXPO EVENT WEATHER

 Late September/early October is the PERFECT time of year to host an expo type event in Southern Illinois! 
Some have expressed that we have picked the wrong time of year to host the Midwest LSA Expo
because of “poor or cool weather” or “airplanes will have already been stored for the winter”. 
I would like to offer the following to counter these incorrect assumptions:

LOCATION:

Southern Illinois is not located in the Chicago suburbs.  In fact, our weather patterns are more closely related to Western Kentucky. 

WEATHER:

Late September/early October brings stable, comfortable flying weather. 
The daily temperature range will be in the low 50’s to mid 80’s throughout the event. 
One can not rule out a pop-up thunderstorm, but for the most part September/October brings the best flying weather in Southern Illinois. 
I am sure you will agree this is perfect temperature range for night time activities
around a camp fire and walking on a concrete ramp during the day!

AIRCRAFT:

Each year, Mt. Vernon Outland Airport hosts the KR National Gathering during the third weekend in September
and the Little Egypt Fly-In and Veterans Reunion/Southern Illinois Harvest Festival during the third weekend in October. 
The ramp is full during both events. 
At the Little Egypt Fly-In and Veterans Reunion in mid-October, aircraft participants range from
active duty U.S. Military Aircraft, to ultralights and gyrocopters. 
When planning for this event in the late 1990’s, the committee heard the same
incorrect assumption about aircraft being stored for the winter. 
As you can see from the attached photographs, this is simply not the case. 
Another interesting fact is the local EAA Chapter has flown over 2500 Young Eagles
at the Annual Little Egypt Fly-In and Veterans Reunion. 
Not a single child has become nauseous during their flight!

AIRCRAFT DEMONSTRATION RIDES:

The Midwest LSA Expo was created to provide a venue for manufacturers to display
the latest in Light Sport Aircraft as well as attendees an opportunity to demo the many different LSA’s. 
A suitable time frame that would provide a positive flying experience for LSA buyers was sought. 
Because of the stable and comfortable flying weather combined with a proven track record
at the other aviation events hosted by the airport, the Midwest LSA Expo Committee chose the
first weekend in October to schedule the inaugural Midwest LSA Expo. 
High density altitudes, low ceilings, high winds, and all day rain are usually not
affiliated with late September/early October in Southern Illinois. 
This should translate to the absolute finest time to demonstrate the flying characteristics of an LSA.