Sun-soaked, satisfied, and with cameras full of photos, aviation enthusiasts have wrapped up SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo 2026. For six straight days at Lakeland Linder International Airport, fans were treated to nonstop airshows, vendors, and forums—capped off by a Thunderbirds performance on Sunday evening. With the expo over, let’s recap how the Albert Whitted Airport community showed up at SUN ‘n FUN.
The Mooney Anomaly
If there was one aircraft that captured the spirit of St. Pete at this year’s show, it was the unmistakable Mooney Anomaly piloted by Liam Hawkins.
The Anomaly team shepherded the colorful buzz of daytime airshows into the glow of neon-lit nights. Once the sun went down, the Mooney Anomaly Lounge hosted nights of energy, connection and pure aviation fun. It was an experience to enjoy raffles, karaoke, and spontaneous conversations with local supporters and aviation content creators hailing from across the country. On the last day of the expo, the aircraft showed off with smoke for a fly-by showcase. The Mooney Anomaly brought the fun to SUN ‘n FUN.
The colorful aircraft as the centerpiece of the Mooney Anomaly Lounge
Albert Whitted Airport Preservation Society (AWAPS)
The Albert Whitted Airport Preservation Society brings aviation enthusiasts together year-round through events that blend community, education and hands-on experiences. The group showed up at SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo with that same spirit. Volunteers recruited through the society help operate the Florida Air Museum, which hosted standout moments like the World Cup Drone Soccer Tournament and the Florida Aviation Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. AWAPS helped turn a major aviation event into something that still felt like a close-knit community gathering.
Friends of Albert Whitted Airport
During the AOPA Pilot Town Hall, Friends of Albert Whitted Airport was recognized for its advocacy efforts in protecting and promoting Albert Whitted Airport. It was a meaningful acknowledgment, reinforced by a special showing of Our City, Our Airport. Shown at the Hangar, an open-air stage, the screening unfolded under a glowing Florida sunset. The film presented to SUN ‘n FUN visitors how general aviation airports serve as vital community assets and why their preservation and future matter.
Before the screening, Suzy Eickhoff said a few words. A true pioneer of SUN ’n FUN, her vision helped shape the event into what it is today, including inspiring initiatives like the Skylab Innovation Center. Her connection to the Albert Whitted community runs deep as the Eickhoff family has offered monumental support during pivotal moments when the airport’s future was on the line. Her presence at the documentary screening served as a bridge between communities, linking SUN ’n FUN’s legacy with St. Petersburg’s ongoing story.
AOPA members enjoying the screening of Our City, Our Airport
All together, the Albert Whitted Airport community showed up and showed out at the nation’s second-largest aviation expo. While SUN ‘n FUN may call Lakeland home, St. Pete’s reach goes far beyond our waterfront. This community is one that travels, connects, and contributes because aviation doesn’t stop at city limits.
April 2026
Nisuka Williams