www.WVairshows.com


Major Mike Lakin (Call sign "Rudy") flies a 2004 Super Decathlon and is scheduling events for the 2009 season. There are only 4 Super Decathlons currently flying on the airshow circuit. It is a unique aircraft with the ability to perform as primary trainer and also as an advanced aerobatic/airshow aircraft. In addition to performing a 250 foot solo aerobatic routine, Mike also performs a semi-aerobatic routine from the surface to 250 feet demonstrating low level maneuvering (up 90 degrees pitch and up to 90 degrees of bank angle) while using terrain to form the appearance of flying below the hills, trees, or runways.

Mike's act is a great addition to any show and is ideal as a "starting act" in anticipation for the unlimited or jet airshow main events. The aircraft is an ideal photo support aircraft and can carry passengers weighing in at over 300 pounds and heights of over 6'5''.

Fans love the aircraft because it can stay right in front of the crowd in a small aerobatic box, performs graceful and understandable maneuvers, and can then perform advanced maneuvers such as outside loops, snaps rolls, and multiple spins. For an aspiring pilot, the plane is capable to training a new student from scratch and then enabling them to master basic aerobatics during initial flight training.
In short, this is a plane in which a fan can actually take their first lessons as opposed to advanced or unlimited civilian aerobatic aircraft (Pitts, Extra, MX2). The Super Decathlon is one of the few airshow aircraft that are available for solo rentals to student pilot at various flight schools around the country.

In addition to flying his performance, Mike will talk his way through the maneuvers over the public address system, explaining to fans what is happening in terms that even an 8 year old will comprehend. This puts the fan "in the cockpit" and commands their attention during the 9 minute performance. A full announcer script along with background music will add to the experience. The act is well received, especially at smaller venues.

The plane and pilot are available before and after the show for fans. Mike will make himself available for any PR events before and after the show in order to share his experiences with corporate sponsors, community leaders, and youth groups (Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, Church Groups). Mike will also travel to retirement homes, hospitals, or VA facilities to meet with and give presentations to people who may not be able to make it to the event.

-250' solo aerobatics for 2008, surface level/unlimited aerobatics for 2009 airshow season
-Solo Aerobatics, Comedy, Flying Farmer, Inverted Ribbon Cut. Patriotic military tribute act available.
-Specialist in Media Rides/Public relations/VIP rides. Polished public speaker and experienced military officer/pilot. High energy.
-Former Marine Corps Pilot (Huey UH-1N), Navy Flight instructor (Beechcraft T-34C turboprop), and U.S. Army/DOD Civilian operational test and evaluation pilot (T-34C photo chase pilot). Current military pilot on the C-130 Hercules with the West Virginia Air National Guard. Lieutentant Colonel Select.
-Combat Flight Experience in Iraq and Afghanistan while flying C-130 re-supply missions to Special Forces units, Marines, and US Army soldiers and USAF Airmen at expeditionary bases.
-Current Corporate pilot on the Beechcraft King Air 350 (Collins Proline 21) and the Cessna Grand Caravan (C-208B) for the State of West Virginia (pilot for Governor Joe Manchin).

Mike has performed at 14 airshows during the last 12 months (2007-2008) and is anxiously awaiting a full season in 2009. Feel free to call and discuss scheduling. If he can't meet your entertainment needs, he can recommend several other highly experienced performers who fly similar acts or who have military experience. Mike is also available for consulation concerning airshow organization, FAA coordination, and obtaining military static display aircraft.

Have a Great 2009 Airshow Season,

Mike Lakin and Associates

Rudy Lakin Airshows
P.O. Box 11319
Charleston, West Virginia 25339
Phone 304-389-0643
Email: Rudy@WVairshows.com or MLakin130@yahoo.com

Airport: Charleston's Yeager Field (KCRW)
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Mike,

It was really great to see you fly yesterday at Vidalia. You did an awesome job. Are you flying anywhere else locally (GA or AL) the rest of the year? Hope to see you down the road.

Don

Here's video of Mike "Rudy" Lakin's demo at the 2009 Culpeper AirFest. Enjoy!!

YouTube Link

AirShow Buzz Link

Great video Cindy!

Here are 3 of my shots of "Rudy" from Culpeper!







Mike

Rudy's the man, very energetic performance!