The Thaden Invasion
(last updated 2/6/26)

March 13-15, 2026 | KVBT Thaden Field | Bentonville, Arkansas

Join the Midlife Pilot Podcast community for a weekend of flying, friendship, and fun at "The Coolest Airport in the Country"!

Quick Details

• Parking: First-come, first-served (no reservations)

• Alternative airports: KROG (6nm) or Sugar Creek/58AR (3nm, grass strip)

Schedule

Friday 3/13: Arrivals | 7PM dinner at Bentonville Brewing Company

Saturday 3/14:
Breakfast at LOUISE Cafe

9AM WINGS SEMINAR with DPE Seth Lake
Enhanced Preflight: Airworthiness Planning for Owner-Operators Beyond the Walkaround

4-5PM LIVE PODCAST RECORDING | Group dinner at Bentonville Brewery

Sunday 3/15: Breakfast | Departures

Parking & Airports

KVBT (Primary): Approximately 30 aircraft capacity, first-come first-served. Bring chocks (no tiedowns). DO NOT call Legends Air Center for reservations.

KROG (Backup): 6nm away, no fees, easier parking availability (bring chocks - no tie downs)

Sugar Creek/58AR (Backcountry): 3nm away, 3200' grass strip, camping and clubhouse available (479-319-6641)

Key Info

• No landing fees for piston aircraft at KVBT

• Study airspace: Between Rogers Class D and Class C shelf

• Amenities: Full-service FBO, LOUISE Cafe, exhibition hangar

• Activities: Crystal Bridges Museum (FREE), mountain biking, downtown Bentonville

Important Notes

• Informal community gathering - not a formal fly-in

• Book your own lodging early

• Weather happens - make safe decisions

• Personal minimums and ADM are your responsibility

Questions: midlifepilotpodcast@gmail.com
Updates: Check this page for latest details

This is a "come hang out with us" event. We're sharing where we'll be - you handle your own travel, lodging, and safety decisions!