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FRCOPA Flight 70 Celebrates 4th Annual North Port Fly‑In
The 4th Annual North Port Fly‑In took place on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, welcoming aviation enthusiasts, families, and community members for a full weekend of flying fun and friendly faces. Organized by COPA Flight 70 Durham Region and hosted at CNP4 North Port/Seagrave, the event featured a 2200-foot grass runway, floatplane dock, and plenty of space for aircraft, classic cars, and visitors of all ages.
Saturday’s daytime highlights included the arrival of fly‑in aircraft, a classic automobile display, and guided flight-line tours. The first twelve pilots to arrive received a free hat, and visitors had the chance to book vintage and aerobatic flights in the Tiger Moth and Pitts Special. Over 15 paid rides were given throughout the weekend. Breakfast and lunch were served by the 2nd VandenBos Air Cadets as part of their fundraiser, and families enjoyed games and a children’s bouncy castle. Picnic tables, camping space for Fly-In Aircraft and COPA 70 members, and airport facilities were generously provided by North Port Aviation. Ed-The-Sock from radio station 94.9 The Rock made an appearance in the afternoon, adding a fun twist to the day’s activities. The evening brought live music from The Rhythm ReVue, a high‑energy band that had guests dancing well into the night. A pizza and corn‑on‑the‑cob dinner was available by pre‑order, rounding out a full day of aviation and local camaraderie.
Sunday kept the momentum going with more flight opportunities, games, and fundraising meals. The day wrapped up with prize draws and a warm farewell to all who attended.
A standout moment on Saturday was the visit from special guest John Henry, former mayor of Oshawa and now Regional Chair for all of Durham Region, along with COPA Directors Doug Ronan, Ashlynne Dale, and Stephen Wilcox, who each took a moment to speak to the crowd. Captain Rick Nihda followed with a thoughtful gesture, presenting Manny Rosario, Co‑Founder and Executive Director of Enterprise Aviation Group, with the title of Honorary Captain of COPA Flight 70. The recognition was given in appreciation of Manny’s generosity, ideas, community involvement, and steady support of general aviation throughout Durham Region and to COPA Flight 70. His quiet leadership and contributions were warmly acknowledged by all.
We were glad to help capture and share some of the special moments from this year’s Fly‑In. Our sincere thanks go out to the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who came out to support the event. With over 250 attendees and a wide range of visiting aircraft, including three helicopters, it was a true celebration of aviation and community spirit.
Content and photos provided by Gus and Clara of Gusair Photography via COPA Flight 70.