Flood 2024

9A9 experienced unforeseen flooding due to Hurricane Helene.  Within hours, our Heaven on Earth was submerged under 10' and in some parts, 12' of water from the Catawba River.  The first image was taken after the water had receded approximately 2'.  34 planes and excessive amounts of personal property lost as depicted in the images below.  24 hours later the membership was left scratching their heads as to the next steps.  The first few days after, work began to clear a portion of the runway and main taxiway.  Many volunteer pilots from all over in big tire planes began bringing supplies in to meet the Red Cross and other organizations.  Even in the chaos, Shiflet was able to serve a purpose for the community we call home.  Since then, the members have been working to get not  only their hangars back in order, but also to help each other.  The airport community has really worked together and looking to better days ahead.  As of this time, it is still far from the airport we enjoyed, but it is improving every day.  The membership's homes and families were all safe minus some minor damages, so we are very thankful overall.  Much of our community and neighboring communities weren't so lucky.  Shiflet Field may be down right now, but we will be back better than ever!  I urge anyone reading this, don't take anything for granted.  It can be gone in a flash.