Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome:
Frequently Asked Questions


Ticket Purchases - Airshows and Rides

Q: Do I need to buy advance tickets for the museum, airshow or biplane rides?

A: No. There is no need to purchase tickets for the airshow or rides in advance. We have plenty of seating for the shows and tickets can be purchased at the site on the day of the airshow. For the rides, we suggest arriving early (around 10:00 am) to book a flight as they do sell out quickly, particularly in the fall. Gift certificates are available for weekend flights by calling 845-752-3200 during the week, but specific dates and flight times can not be reserved.

Q: Are group rates available?

A: Yes, you can see our group rates here.

Airshows

Q: Do you have shows every weekend throughout the summer?

A: Yes, from mid-June through mid-October, weather permitting.

Q: What is the difference between the Aerodrome’s Saturday shows and Sunday shows?

A: Our Saturday "History of Flight" show focuses on aviation from 1909 through 1939 and features performances of our early Pioneer aircraft, a World War I. dogfight demonstration and our "Balloon-Bursting-Barnstorming–Biplanes" of the 1920's and 1930's. Typically you will see the Bleriot, Curtiss Pusher, Aeronca C-3, Curtiss Wright Junior and several others in the line-up take to the skies.

Our Sunday "WWI" show features our WWI aircraft and includes a sampling of Pioneer and 1920’s and 1930’s biplanes. The WWI aircraft flown on Sundays include the Fokker D.VII, Nieuport 11, Avro 504, Fokker Triplane, Sopwith Camel, Albatros D.Va and others. We also feature several zany characters such as Trudy Truelove, The Evil Baron of Rhinebeck, and Sir Percy Goodfellow in a melodrama developed to appeal to children of all ages.

Both days generally include a vintage fashion show, a parade of early vehicles and great surprises, so you’ll want to see both shows if you visit.

Q: Do you have airshows when it rains?

A: We do the best we can to please our visitors, but in the interest of safety and for the comfort of our guests, we do not have shows in the rain. If we call a "rain-out" (or "wind-out" if the wind conditions are not suitable for safe operation of aircraft) we offer rain-checks to our guests which can be turned in at any time. We cater to our visitors by offering tours of our museum buildings and personal, informal group discussions with our pilots and staff if the show is canceled. Our guests always enjoy this personal touch. Please check our weather link for the latest weather report.

Q: Can I bring my pet?

A: We discourage bringing pets to the airshows. There is little shade, and subjecting dogs to the explosions and loud engine noises is cruel. We do not allow dogs to be locked in cars! Weekdays a well behaved dog is always welcome, but it must be leashed, well-behaved, and you must clean-up after it. Pet owners also be aware that other pets may be visiting the Aerodrome. .

Getting Here

Q: Where are you located?

A: We are located 100 miles north of New York City, and directly east of Kingston on the east side of the Hudson River. From Poughkeepsie we are a 30-minute car drive away. From Albany we are approximately 1-1/2 hours away by car. See directions and map link.

Q: What transportation can I use to get to the Aerodrome?

A: The Aerodrome is accessible by car, air, rail and bus. Train, bus, cab and car rental information is available on this site. See the Directions page for details.

Fly-in visits

Q: Can I land my aircraft at the Aerodrome?

A: . A. The runway and environs at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome are typical of those found during the Pioneer Era of aviation. Use of the field is only authorized by prior permission (Call 845-752-3200/3206).

There are no communications facilities, parking space is limited on air show days, and neither fuel nor maintenance is available. Due to heavy rides planes and air show activity, arrivals can only be made before 10 a.m. and departures only after 4:30 p.m. Departures may not be made until briefed by the air show director or his representative.

A far better idea is to land at the Kingston-Ulster Airport and take a taxicab to the aerodrome. (20N has a 3100’ paved runway, lighting, communications, fuel, maintenance, plenty of parking, no time restrictions, and is 5 air miles West of Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome.) We have pre-arranged service with Rhinebeck Taxi at 845-876-2010 for a special rate of $25, and suggest calling ahead for reservations.

Q: What airports are located nearby?

Kingston, River Aviation – (845) 336-8400 - 6 miles

Kingston Airport - 5 miles

Dutchess County Airport – 30 miles

Stewart Airport – 60 miles

Albany Airport - 60 Miles

LaGuardia Airport – 90 miles

Kennedy Airport – 100 miles



Special Private Events


Q: Can special groups, weddings and corporate parties be handled at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome?

A: Yes, call us at 845-752-3200 for details


Q: Can I have my event catered?

A: Yes. There are several caterers in the area. One used often is GiGi’s Market (845-758-1999), which is 8 minutes away and can handle up to 300 people. They also can cater right here at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome.