Northwest Arkansas’ aviation community is working to make flying a recreational pastime that is more accessible to people who may have never considered it before. Stakeholders have created a database that includes information about regional backcountry airstrips, and Thaden Fieldhouse is nearing completion at the Bentonville airport. The fieldhouse will feature a restaurant and a flying club called OZ1, both of which aim to connect the greater community to the local aviation scene.
Aviation Enthusiasts Aim to Make Recreational Flying an Ozark Pastime
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Planes parked under a tree at the Trigger Gap backcountry airstrip.
courtesy: Michael Clark
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The Thaden Fieldhouse features a boardwalk that will give visitors access to kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards and fishing.
Z. Sitek / KUAF
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A massive hangar door will allow staff to display various planes and exhibits for visitors to see.
Z. Sitek / KUAF
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The Thaden Fieldhouse will be home to a restaurant called "Louise" and the OZ1 members lounge.
Z. Sitek / KUAF
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Reporter Zuzanna Sitek poses with pilot Chad Cox at Drake Field in Fayetteville.
courtesy: Michael Clark