Bowman Field (B10) in the town of Livermore Falls, Maine, alongside the Androscoggin River, offers the general aviation pilot the best of both worlds: A turf runway on a spacious airport and an unofficial seaplane base.
About 22 miles miles west of the state capital of Augusta, the airport covers 20 acres, which leaves a lot of grassy area to park a lot of aircraft.
That will come in handy the weekend of Aug. 27-28, 2022, when B10 holds its 36th annual fly-in.
There will be airplane rides both days, as well as a hangar yard sale, according to airport officials.
The Northeast STOL series will be back again this year with pilots showing off their Short Take Off and Landing abilities on Saturday starting at 1 p.m.
A candy drop will be held both days of the fly-in for kids, while a DJ will be entertaining the crowds on Saturday evening.
The Maine Antique Power Association will display its antique engines.
Pilots and planes from all over the northeast — and beyond — are expected at the fly-in, airport officials said.
In the past, as many as 150 airplanes have made it to the fly-in, according to Ken Lyman, the airport manager.
Bowman has a single airstrip (02/20) that’s 2,201 feet with trees at each end.
The turf is in good condition, but Ken notes the runway can get a bit soft after a rain storm. If you are planning to visit, it’s best to give him a call at 207-897-5104 to check on the condition of the runway.
In the winter the runway is not plowed but rolled, making it suitable for ski- equipped aircraft, he adds.
On floats?
Ken notes that the airport’s “unofficial seaplane base” on the Androscoggin River is adjacent to the airport. Seaplane pilots can nose into the shore next to the airport and make a short walk through the trees to the airport grounds. You might want to bring a pair of boots, he advises.
The airport is home to the Bowman Field Flying Club and has about 15 airplanes based at the field. Operations at B10 average about 48 a week.
There are no repair services available at the airport, but it does have unleaded mogas.
If more service is needed, Augusta State Airport (KAUG) is 16 miles away and Auburn Lewiston Municipal Airport (KLEW) is 22 miles away.
If visitors need a little more civilization, plan to call an Uber or they have a couple of bicycles available.
Great story about small forgotten grass strips,the roots of aviation.