For the young and old alike, the sound of a plane engine ready for takeoff on an active runway somehow makes your heart beat a little faster.

It’s this desire to be near an airport that is expected to draw hundreds to attend the 2009 Airport Festival on Saturday, March 28, 2009; from noon to 4 p.m at the Continental Airlines hangar known as “Building B” at 4365 Wright Road.

“When you step on to the grounds of one of the biggest hub airports in the country, most people feel the energy here on the airfield,” says Rob Wigington, deputy director of Marketing, Communications and Community Affairs for the Houston Airport System. “George Bush Intercontinental Airport is turning 40 this year and we’d like to share that exciting milestone with the community.”

The Airport Festival, organized by the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce, has been a local tradition for 26 years. It’s a special day when aviation fans are invited to help celebrate Houston’s hub airport.

The significance of the 40 years of service that IAH has given to Houston as a community will be part of the festivities scheduled for March 28. Another key milestone is the 35th anniversary of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce.

The Airport Festival will include many activities that will entertain the public including plenty of static displays such as F-16's, a C-130, the Hurricane Hunter, the FedEx Airbus A-300, helicopters and airplanes from the Lone Star Flight Museum; the Houston Zoo mobile, live music and a children's play area.

Admission costs $10 for advance tickets and $15 for tickets at the gate. Child admission is $5 for ages 3 to 12. Admission costs $10 for advance tickets and $15 for tickets at the gate. Child admission is $5 for ages 3 to 12.