Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome to fly historic replica to Florida ahead of

SUN ’n FUN’s 2027 celebration of aviation’s global legacy.

LAKELAND, Fla. (November 10, 2026) — A remarkable piece of aviation history is headed to Lakeland. Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome will fly its full-size replica of the iconic Spirit of St. Louis from Red Hook, New York to Lakeland, Florida in early November, bringing a rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s most recognizable aircraft up close. The aircraft will be on display at the Florida Air Museum in the months leading up to the 53rd annual SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, April 6-11, 2027.

The arrival marks an exciting milestone as SUN ’n FUN prepares for its 2027 theme, “A World to SEA at 53,” celebrating the 100th anniversary of Charles Lindbergh’s historic solo, nonstop transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in May 1927. That groundbreaking journey helped connect continents through aviation and forever changed the world’s perception of what flight could accomplish.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome and this extraordinary aircraft to Lakeland,” said Gene Conrad, SUN ’n FUN CEO. “The Spirit of St. Louis represents a defining moment in aviation history. Having the opportunity to welcome a flying replica here ahead of SUN ’n FUN 2027 gives our community, aviation enthusiasts and future generations a chance to connect with that legacy in a meaningful way.”

Rather than transporting the aircraft by truck, Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome plans to make the approximately 1,250-mile journey by air, honoring the spirit of the original aircraft and the pioneering aviators who helped shape aviation history. The replica was completed using extensive historical research, with careful attention to the original aircraft’s details, including its flight instruments. It first flew in December 2015 and has since appeared in airshows and film productions.

The aircraft is currently in route and expected to arrive on the afternoon of Thursday, November 12, 2026. Weather and flight conditions will affect the schedule.

If you are a Media Representative and are interested in covering the Spirit of St. Louis Media Event, please contact SUN 'n FUN to RSVP so we can ensure you receive updates on the anticipated landing timing and media access.

Current Media Location for the arrival will be at the Lakeland Aero Club on the SUN 'n Fun Campus - 3952 James C. Ray Dr, Lakeland, FL 33811.

Arrival details remain subject to change, and SUN ’n FUN will provide additional updates during the week of the aircraft’s anticipated arrival.

Media are also encouraged to follow SUN ’n FUN and Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome on social media to follow the aircraft’s journey from New York to Florida and stay informed as plans are confirmed.

Following its arrival, the aircraft will remain inside the Florida Air Museum through the winter and into SUN ’n FUN 2027, giving visitors a special opportunity to see the replica outside the annual spring expo. During the 53rd SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo, scheduled for April 6–11, 2027, the Spirit of St. Louis is expected to be featured on static display and in flight, including planned air show appearances throughout the week.

Learn more about the aircraft, its history and its journey to Florida at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome’s Spirit of St. Louis webpage at the link below.

ABOUT SUN ’N FUN AEROSPACE EXPO AND THE AEROSPACE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE

Located in Lakeland, Florida, SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo is one of the nation’s premier aviation events, bringing together hundreds of thousands of aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, exhibitors and families each year. The event is operated by the Aerospace Center for Excellence, a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging, educating and accelerating the next generation of aerospace professionals. Proceeds from SUN ’n FUN help support ACE’s aviation and STEM education programs, scholarships and community outreach initiatives.

ABOUT THE OLD RHINEBECK AERODROME

Located in New York’s Hudson Valley, the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome was founded in 1958 by Cole Palen. An aviation enthusiast since childhood he used his pay from WWII to start collecting, including six derelict WWI airplanes from a museum about to be demolished. Three farmer’s fields became a runway to fly his restorations. Word spread, people came to watch, he started charging admission, and formal Air Shows began in the 1960s. When Palen died he left the collection to the nonprofit Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum. The collection includes 80 aircraft from 1909 to 1942, 30 automobiles, and hundreds of pieces of aviation memorabilia. The Youth Program gives hands-on experience leading aviation careers for participants.

Every ticket purchased for the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo directly supports the Aerospace Center for Excellence, helping us Engage, Educate, and Accelerate the next generation of aerospace professionals.

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