Local George Weller’s Annual Fly-In to take off for the 14th time
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
George Weller, a well-known figure in Stanstead’s aviation and farming communities, is preparing for his 14th Annual Fly-In, which will take place on Sept. 14. This event, which has grown in popularity over the years, brings together aviation enthusiasts, pilots, and members of the local community for a day of flying, food, and conversation at Weller’s private airfield. What started as a small gathering has expanded significantly, now attracting pilots from across Quebec, Ontario, and even further afield.
In a Sept. 9 interview, Weller shared how his love for flying started in the 1960s while he was working at a paper mill in Wisconsin. “I started flying when I was in Wisconsin at a paper mill, working for a big company,” Weller recalled. After moving to Stanstead in 1970, he became more serious about aviation. His journey took a significant turn in 1980. “I found a wrecked airplane at Newport Airport and bought it. My wife and I, along with my oldest son, fixed it up.”
That airplane, a 1946 Aeronca Champ, became a symbol of Weller’s passion for aviation. The process of rebuilding it not only rekindled his love for flying but also inspired his son. “He went on [to become] an aeronautical engineer,” Weller said proudly.
Weller’s airfield, located at his farm near Stanstead, has grown over the years, largely due to his own hard work and resourcefulness. “I brought the plane back to my field because I didn’t want to pay rent at the airport in Newport. Over time, it took me 10 years to build [my] airport,” he said. Since then, Weller has extended his runway and transformed the airfield into a hub for local aviation activities.
In an email sent ahead of the event, Weller shared more details about the Fly-In, which has become a highlight of the year for many local and visiting pilots. “In the past, there were about 20 or 30 planes that would fly in. Recently, there’s been around 60 planes,” Weller noted. Visitors can expect a wide variety of aircraft, including certified planes, home-built airplanes, and even gyrocopters. “We’ve had all sorts of planes here—everything from single-engine planes to experimental aircraft,” Weller shared. He recalled one of the more unique visitors to the airfield: a Russian Antonov with a 1,200-horsepower radial engine. “That plane could carry a ton or more,” Weller noted.
Despite its status as a private airfield, Weller welcomes pilots to land at his farm, although they must agree to take personal responsibility for their safety. “People are welcome to come, ” Weller explained, “They have to agree that they’re responsible for anything that happens.” For those who appreciate Weller’s hospitality, a donation mailbox is located on the hangar door.
