50th Annual Seaplane Fly-In: A Spectacular Gathering at Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine

One of the planes that wll be at the International Seaplane Fly-In September 5th-8th, 2024 in Greenville, Maine.Photo byWipaire/Facebook

The 50th annual International Seaplane Fly-In starts today, Thursday, September 5th, and runs through Sunday, September 8th, at Moosehead Lake. Every year the fly-in has hundreds of seaplanes that fly in to participate from all over the United States, along with thousands of visitors coming to see the planes. The visitors to the fly-in are not just from Maine but also from all around the United States. In addition to viewing the seaplanes, there are activities during the four fly-in days.

The International Seaplane Fly-In got its start back in 1973. During that time there were a few bush pilots that made their living by flying sportsmen in and out of the remote area. Back then, there were few roads available in the area, and seaplanes were the way to easily get to the area. A few pilots thought it would be fun to invite other seaplane pilots to come for the weekend and have some fun flying, and the fly-in was started.

During the fly-in, the pilots compete in different skill competitions, and you will see all kinds and colors of planes buzzing around Moosehead Lake. They also have a float plane parade, which is fun to watch. The parade will be on Saturday, September 7, 2024, starting in East Cove at 8:30 a.m.

It is free to get in and watch the events. ​Please note that due to FAA regulations and safety reasons, the operation of drones will not be permitted during the fly-in.