Those wanting to take a closer look at air travel got their way on Saturday, as the Boone airport had several small aircraft and helicopters on display all afternoon.
There were about 15 small fixed wing airplanes out on the tarmac, with some vintage models mixing with newer ones. Also out for show was a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, on loan from the National Guard base next door, and an RH-44 small helicopter from Iowa Helicopter.
Both hangars were also open to the public, with one showcasing the aircraft workshop, and the other with some aviation relics, such as a World War II fighter and the Norden Bombsight, which was considered an Allied top secret during the war.
During the middle of the afternoon, visitors were treated to several Blackhawks coming in from a training exercise for a landing in strong crosswinds.
Jason Hohanshelt, a pilot with Iowa Helicopter, described flying as an experience-based career.
"You have to go to flight schools to get different licenses, which require different amounts of logged flight hours," he said.
Hohanshelt and his partner on Saturday, Kelly Wilson, were offering rides in their helicopter for a small fee. Both are Boone natives who have gone on to a unique career path.
"We're pretty much the only school in Iowa that can give helicopter training," Wilson said.
Those looking to pursue a private flying license can anticipate spending around $6,000 to $7,000 be plane certified, or around $14,000 for their helicopter license.
"Almost everything is twice as expensive on a helicopter," Hohanshelt said.
The ride offered on Saturday by Iowa Helicopter was not for those easily airsick, as there were strong winds buffeting the airport all day.
"This is nothing to worry about," Hohanshelt joked. "This just means I'm going to have to actually work."