A World War II-era aircraft that captivated crowds at Baxter County Airport three years ago will return to Midway this weekend as part of a new event. “Sweet Pea,” a fully restored Beechcraft Model 18, will be available for flights Saturday, August 29, during the inaugural Crosswind Classic at the airport.
The plane’s owners, Ken and Lorraine Morris, will fly the Twin Beech from their base near Chicago. Visitors can ride in the historic aircraft for a $75 donation. Sweet Pea last appeared at the airport in August 2023 during National Aviation Day, where it drew a consistent line of attendees eager to experience a piece of aviation history.
Built in 1942 as an AT-7A navigation trainer, Sweet Pea is one of just seven such models produced. Originally delivered on floats to Alaska during World War II, the aircraft carried the military serial number 41-121161. After serving various roles and receiving a factory rebuild in 1954, she was retired from military service in 1960 and donated to Southern Illinois University. Sweet Pea operated there as an executive and charter aircraft until 1971 and later served business and private owners.
The Morrises discovered the airplane on Long Island in 2012, where it had been inactive for several years. The couple undertook an extensive six-month restoration, repairing engines, refurbishing the airframe, and completely redoing the interior. The plane has since won awards for its craftsmanship. Both Morrises are accomplished airline pilots who restore classic aircraft at Poplar Grove Airport in Illinois.
“She doesn’t fly all that much, but this is what I love to do,” Ken Morris said in 2023, noting the plane’s unique history and flying characteristics. The Beechcraft carries 250 gallons of fuel and consumes approximately 50 gallons per hour in flight.
Sweet Pea will join other attractions at the Crosswind Classic, including a British MK5 BAC Jet Provost military trainer brought in by Rich Dawe for a static display. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the airport on State Highway 126. Admission and parking are free, and ride tickets for Sweet Pea will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition to the aircraft displays, the event will feature a car show, food trucks, live music by Ozark Thunder, a vendor mall, and a kids’ zone. A People’s Choice award will be presented for the crowd’s favorite car and airplane. Other activities include a morning coffee-and-doughnut fly-in hosted by EAA Chapter 775, an aviation poker run, and door prizes such as restaurant gift certificates and an electric chainsaw.
The Crosswind Classic comes amid ongoing improvements at the county-owned airport. Over $2.5 million has been invested in the facility over the past three years, including the addition of new hangars designed to attract aviation businesses. Airport officials are now pursuing a runway expansion to enhance its viability for commuter service. According to Federal Aviation Administration data, Baxter County Airport supports 74 based aircraft and sees roughly 11,500 annual takeoffs and landings.
Organizers of Saturday’s event said the goal is to introduce the community to the airport and its potential. Event details, including registration information, are available through Bill Holland at (405) 626-1386, Taylor Carmichael at (870) 520-0456, and Rylen Wynn at (417) 989-1021. More information is also online at flybpk.com/crosswindclassic.