Plane Talk

Airport’s 70th Year: Tours, Speakers, Air Fair Sponsors, Good Eats & Visitors

By Gary Mascaro, Scottsdale Airport

Scottsdale this time of year is busy for everyone, especially the airport! The peak season starts November and runs through March. Our ramp is filled not only by customers who regularly use the airport, but also visitors who want to take advantage of nice weather, great outdoors, and signature events like the Arabian Horse Show and the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Here’s a quick update of what is happening at Scottsdale Airport:
Although it feels like just yesterday that we opened our doors to 13,000 community members for the 2011 Scottsdale Air Fair, planning is already underway for 2012. This event would not be possible without event sponsors. The Scottsdale Air Fair generates enthusiastic audience involvement which provides a unique and cost-effective marketing opportunity for companies helping to sponsor this community happening. If your company is interested in getting involved in the Scottsdale Air Fair, please don’t hesitate to call me.

The 2012 Scottsdale Air Fair will also help us celebrate the airport’s 70th birthday! Scottsdale Airport was built in 1942 and used as an Army Air Corps training facility. The Air Fair will be a great way to learn about the airport’s rich history, as well as celebrate all things aviation.

Do you love airplanes, staying connected and … food? I am proud to announce that after two years of sitting vacant, the airport restaurant is now open! The Zulu Caffe, located inside the Airport Terminal, is open seven days per week, featuring breakfast and lunch Monday- Saturday, happy hour Wednesday- Friday, and brunch on Sunday. See related story p. 62.

With expansive views of the runway, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a nice meal while you watch airplanes take off and land. Did I mention that the airport terminal also has free Wi-Fi available for its customers?
Have you ever wondered how Scottsdale Airport operates, what is happening there now or what the airport’s impact is on the community? If you would like an airport speaker to visit your community organization, business association or school group, please contact us. Tours for children are also available through May 15. Our "Kid Tours" offer an interactive experience for groups of six or more, children ages 5 and older.
I look forward to sharing more information about everything happening at the airport next time I write. 

Gary Mascaro is Scottsdale’s Aviation Director. Reach him at gmascaro@scottsdaleaz.gov or
480-312-7735.