Aerial Hijinks At The High Sierra Fly-In

The annual dry lake fly-in was the biggest yet by a wide margin, and there was more news than just Draco, but still, Draco was there!

High Sierra Fly-In 2018
High Sierra Fly-In 2018. Photo by Marc Ausman
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The High Sierra Fly-In, created by Kevin Quinn, is an annual event on a Nevada dry lakebed that unites hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts and aviators for a unique backcountry flying experience.
  • A core feature of the fly-in is the STOL-Drag Race, a short takeoff and landing competition testing pilots' short field performance, flying skill, and quick turn proficiency.
  • The event fosters a strong community among pilots who share a passion for big tire taildragger flying and the outdoors, attracting a diverse range of aircraft and skilled aviators.
  • The 2018 event was a record-breaking success, drawing over 400 airplanes and 1,000 people, with Mike Patey's highly modified Draco winning top honors in the STOL Drag race.
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High Sierra Fly-In 2018
High Sierra Fly-In 2018. Photo by Marc Ausman

Isabel Goyer

A commercial pilot, Isabel Goyer has been flying for more than 40 years, with hundreds of different aircraft in her logbook and thousands of hours. An award-winning aviation writer, photographer and editor, Ms. Goyer led teams at Sport Pilot, Air Progress and Flying before coming to Plane & Pilot in 2015.
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