Rowan County Airport Manager Thad Howell has once again been able to secure a promise from Santa Claus to visit the airport during the height of the Christmas season.
“Last year was the first time that Claus dropped by during my tenure here,” Howell said. “I found out that Santa likes to parachute, and we have the perfect venue for that.”
Howell learned about Santa occasionally parachuting from his sleigh to rooftops in order to save time. Claus has been dealing with increased time constraints for years, and eventually hired a consultant specializing in time management. Parachuting to the rooftops saves 8.6 seconds per house visit, allowed the reindeer to safely land while Claus drops off toys and returns to the rooftop for immediate takeoff. Claus credits this one change for his ongoing ability to circle the world in one night.
Santa is scheduled to drop onto the runway area of the airport at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14. If the weather is inclement, Claus has agreed to arrive by plane.
He said, “Actually, I have no problem with parachuting in the rain even though I prefer snow. FAA regulations always require that Santa makes the safest entrance. I am counting on good weather.”
Admission is free to see Santa arrive at the airport. Donations are requested to support Rowan Helping Ministries. All canned food items, cereal and peanut butter are needed food items. RHM also needs toothbrushes and socks of all sizes, infant to adult.
Santa has agreed to stay at the airport to visit with the kids until noon. He told Howell earlier this week, “My schedule just gets tighter every year, but there was such a large turnout last year that I couldn’t wait to come see if all the girls and boys had been good again for a second straight year. Ho Ho Ho! Don’t forget to bring a camera.”
Gates open at 9 a.m. Concessions will be available for purchase.
There will also be a craft activity. Additional information is available at 704-216-7753. The airport is located at 3670 Airport Loop Road.