What's happening at the Western U.P. Fly-In.

SIDNAW -- On a holiday weekend when most people are typically enjoying the outdoors, one group is taking it to a different level--3,000 feet off the ground.

Labor Day weekend marks the third annual Western U.P. Fly-In, an event that allows pilots, aviation buffs, and anyone interested in flying to come and check out the planes.  And though the Sidnaw Airport may look small, it bustles with activity during the fly-in.  This year's event saw record attendance, despite high fuel costs.

"This year I think we've got all the Great Lakes states represented," said Edward Frederick, manager of the airport.

People who attended got a chance to tour some of the planes, and everyone was excited to be able to take a helicopter ride.  The Western U.P. Fly-In is one of three fly-ins held across the country by a group of general aviators who communicate online.

"It's just a great experience to get together, spend time with friends," said Ted Dupuis, a pilot who flew from Pennsylvania for the event.

Dupuis and several other pilots were more than willing to take passengers into the air and even give them a chance to fly the plane.  They enjoy giving people the opportunity, not only to give them a taste of flying, but also to help shake some of the myths that surround general aviation.

"A lot of people think that it's a rich man's hobby," Dupuis said.  "But if you look around, none of us are rich people.  This is a hobby that we love, we enjoy it."

And for those who were lucky enough to get into the air this weekend at the fly-in, it was easy to see why they love it so much.