Model Plane Show Is Planned for Aug. 9

Radio-controlled-airplane enthusiasts will again stage their miniature version of the El Toro Air Show on Aug. 9 at Mile Square Regional Park.

About 10,000 hobbyists and fans are expected to turn out to see dozens of gas- and electric-powered model planes, mostly replicas of well-known craft, perform. A jet engine powers one of the featured planes.

“This is the best place to fly in California,” said Larry Judson of Fountain Valley, an event organizer. “There’s none better--anywhere.”

Other public flying courses are located in Rosemead and the Sepulveda Basin near Burbank. Neither comes close in size to the 33-acre hobby area at Mile Square Regional Park.

The hobbyists have been fighting county proposals to eliminate the site, and the air show is one way to promote their cause, Judson said. “We’re just going to do anything in our power to keep it.”

Planes featured at the event are valued at $3,000 to $10,000.

The show is sponsored by the Orange Coast Radio Control Club and Scale Squadron of California.

Last year, about 5,000 people attended. Admission is expected to double this year because there was a competing event held on the same day in 1997.

Mile Square Regional Park is at 16801 Euclid St. The event starts at 9 a.m. Admission is free.

Information: (714) 963-1507.