Centennial of Flight celebrated in Palmer

On Dec. 17, the 100th anniversary of the Wright Brothers' first flight takes place, and air businesses in Palmer are celebrating a little early this weekend.

People can take a step back in time this Saturday and Sunday with "A Celebration of Flight" at the Palmer Airport.

In four different locations, people will be able to see the marvels of flight -- from a 6 1/2-foot replica of the Wright Flyer to real airplane rides for $19.03, the year the brothers made their flight.

"We're hoping to be involved with Colony Christmas and get people to come out and see all the displays," said Jacquie Biloff of Mustang Air.

At the Ultima thule Hangar, visitors can see static displays and remote control flights being piloted. At BJ Custom Aircraft Engines and Cylinders, there is a paper airplane contest for time aloft and distance.

Mustang Air is offering the plane rides for $19.03, and people will get to go "Up and Around the Patch," according to flyers. They also will be featuring flight videos.

The Colville, Inc. Hangar will house the replica Wright Flyer.

"We're going to have a photographer there who can print out photos on the spot in the sepia brown tone," Biloff said.

The Palmer Celebration of Flight is one of thousands planned around the country to commemorate the Wright Brothers' flight. On Dec. 17, 1903, the Wright Brothers made four successful flights from the powered Flyer, the first four non-glider flights in history.