The World War II-era warbird “Sweet Pea” was among several historic aircraft on display Saturday at the first Crosswind Classic hosted at Baxter County Airport. The all-day event, held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., took place roughly five miles northwest of Mountain Home, near Midway.
Organizers reported a larger turnout for the Crosswind Classic compared to the airport's 2023 open house, which featured a similar lineup of activities. The event blended aviation-themed attractions, such as a poker run for pilots, with family-friendly entertainment, including a classic car show, live music, and a kids' zone. Food trucks provided refreshments for attendees throughout the day.
Visitors to the event were able to view rows of general aviation aircraft, experimental planes, and historic warbirds up close in a static display. The EAA Twin Lakes Chapter 775 started the morning with a coffee and doughnuts social before hosting a safety briefing for pilots participating in the poker run. Meanwhile, the Leading Edge Aviation Foundation’s Aviation Learning Center offered attendees the chance to try out its flight simulator.
Owned by Baxter County and managed by the Baxter County Airport Authority, the airport is home to 74 based aircraft and handles an estimated 11,500 takeoffs and landings annually, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Crosswind Classic is one of several annual events at the airport. This fall, the Leading Edge Aviation Foundation will host a 5K and 1-mile “Run the Runway” event on Saturday, October 24. The race begins at 7:30 a.m., with registration open to participants of all ages through the foundation.
The inaugural Crosswind Classic’s mix of aviation history, local culture, and activities for all ages marks it as a successful addition to Baxter County’s community calendar.