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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Flight Across America Finalizes NYC Plans REDMOND, Washington – August 26, 2002 – The Flight Across America, a national effort to commemorate the freedom of flight in America and to honor those fallen in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, has finalized plans for the a State flag presentation ceremony and Honor Flight in New York City on September 8, 2002. Designated aircraft, one from each of the 50 U.S. states, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, will fly by the USS Intrepid beginning at approximately 10:30 a.m. and will then return to Essex County Airport in New Jersey. A ceremony to present official state flags will take place beginning at 3:30 p.m. on board the Intrepid. Flight Across America founder, Molly Peebles, says the event is meant to show that the freedoms we have in America cannot be destroyed and “to help heal the country by creating a virtual web of support from across the country that can bring the best wishes of a nation to New York City.” Over 1,400 flights from all over the country have been registered as part of Flight Across America, but only the aircraft bearing the official state flags will fly in the September 8 Honor Flight in New York. “Our overriding concern with Flight Across America is not only to show our support for 9/11 victims and heroes, but also to make sure we respect this solemn anniversary,” says Peebles. “That’s one of the reasons all of our flights, including the New York City Honor Flight, are being conducted in existing flight corridors.” Peebles notes that the route down the Hudson is used daily by news helicopters, light aircraft, law enforcement, and others. Pilots will not fly over Manhattan or Ground Zero and will avoid restricted areas around the Statue of Liberty. Peebles noted that local, regional and federal air traffic control agencies have been involved in the coordination of the Honor Flight. In addition to New York ceremonies, pilots will also attend memorial services in Somerset, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon in Washington, DC to honor those who perished at both locations. For more information on Flight Across America activities on September 8, or on the fly-in of Flag Bearers to Essex County, NJ on September 7, e-mail press@flightacrossamerica.com and visit the web site at http://www.flightacrossamerica.com. ######### FOR MORE INFORMATION: |
Last Updated: 08/29/02. Copyright © 2002 Flight Across America |
