The “First Ditch” Fly-In at Le Sueur, Minn airport is the season opener of summer flying, especially for the antique aircraft community. Now in its 13th year, First Ditch is produced by Marginal Aviation, a not-for-profit organization committed to supporting and promoting antique aviation and having fun while doing it. Marginal Aviation does a fantastic job safely executing this event and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Sueur airport (12Y) is located south of town on high ground east of the Minnesota River. The field’s main paved 3,000-foot runway is oriented 13-31. The parallel grass strip on the west side of the main runway is 2,050 feet long.
This was my first time at First Ditch (the 2026 event dates were June 4-7). I drove in and camped on the airport grounds. Camping accommodations were comfortable, with Marginal providing well-serviced porta-potties and a shower trailer. Restrooms are also available in the airport terminal.
When I arrived Thursday noon, I was cordially greeted by Wade, one of Marginal’s volunteers. Wade immediately made me feel welcome. Several aircraft had already arrived for the event. Through the weekend, many more aircraft, mostly antique and vintage, arrived--some staying overnight, some for just the day. The post-event statistics from Marginal report that 136 airplanes from both coasts and 15 different states attended and purchased 2,700 gallons of fuel. Le Sueur airport offered discounted fuel pricing during the weekend.
I suspect the inclement weather through the region may have discouraged some from flying in. Le Sueur experienced cloudy skies Thursday and Friday, with fog and low ceilings Friday morning and a brief thunderstorm late Friday afternoon. The skies cleared Saturday. While most aviators desire clear blue skies, I, as a photographer, like clouds. The dramatic stormy skies made great backdrops to photograph these beautiful aircraft.
Classic WACO aircraft dominated the ramp along with a huddle of Howards. The heavyweights on the field were two Beech 18s. Also attending were a pair of Travel Airs, practical Pietenpols, a tiny Tiger Moth, a line of Luscombes, fine Fairchilds, civil Cessnas, sturdy Stearmans and Stinsons, tough T-6s, Culver Cadets, and many more. One of Saturday’s highlights was the arrival of the unique 1935 Pasped W-1 Skylark, recently restored by Rare Aircraft. I love admiring antique aircraft--their classic lines, art deco-inspired styling, and purposeful design.
The daily routine consisted of viewing aircraft, flying, and socializing. While crowds closely inspected parked aircraft, other planes took to the sky. Pilots flew from morning to late evening, exhibiting the aerial grace of their vintage planes, practicing grass strip landings and take offs, and demonstrating formation flying. The sights and sounds of these aircraft taxiing and flying was exhilarating! Marginal Aviation personnel ensured safe aircraft operations.
Just as wonderful as the flying was the socializing. Marginal volunteers provided three delicious meals a day, all dishes being made from scratch. These meals nourished our bodies and fed our souls, fostering the fellowship and friendliness of the event.
This was a magnificent fly-in at an intimate setting that allowed attendees to get up close to the aircraft and pilots. Marginal Aviation volunteers do a great job with the logistics and hospitality--my compliments to them! I look forward to attending next year!
See Marginal Aviation’s website (https://marginalaviation.org) for more information about the organization and next year’s First Ditch, which is scheduled for the first weekend in June.