Manassas Regional Airport flyover May 27 to thank Novant healthcare workers

On Wednesday, May 27, at 1 p.m., Manassas residents can look up in the sky as about 20 aircraft housed at the Manassas Regional Airport conduct a flyover at 1200 feet of Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center as a thank you for all of their efforts during this COVID-19 crisis.

The flyover started as an idea by Manassas community member Edie Clark.  She reached out to Manassas Regional Airport staff who took it from there.  Once news went out to pilots at the Airport, staff received an overwhelming response.  Everyone is excited to say thank you to these tireless heroes who have worked so hard to keep so many healthy during this crisis.

“We are honored to have local pilots join together in a flyover tribute to our healthcare heroes,” said Stephen Smith, president and chief operating officer of Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center and Novant Health UVA Health System Haymarket Medical Center. “Whether caring for patients on the front line or supporting our facility operations during this challenging time, our team members are grateful for this show of support in recognition of their efforts to bring the best of health to our communities today and in the brighter days ahead.”

The flyover will last about 15 minutes, weather permitting, and will begin and end at the Manassas Regional Airport.  The aircraft are expected to depart the Airport and fly over Historic Downtown Manassas to the water tower and turn back towards the main entrance of the hospital and emergency room entrance before heading back to the Airport.  Residents are encouraged not to gather at the hospital, but to look up from their homes or along the route in Historic Downtown and to please remember to social distance and wear masks.  The flyover will also be live streamed on the Airport’s Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/manassasairport.

“I would like to thank Mrs. Clark for suggesting that we conduct a flyover and all of the participants who are giving their time and talents to make this happen,” said Airport Director Juan Rivera. “This is the least we can do for our medical care workers.”