Sodbusters STOL is an exhilarating aviation fly-in and STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) competition returning to Hartford, WI, for the third year in a row on July 19-20! This event promises an exciting showcase of skill and performance. Pilots from various backgrounds will converge to demonstrate their aircraft's impressive capabilities in terms of short takeoffs and landings.
National STOL events aim to be a family friendly day out at the airport for both airplane enthusiasts and those new to general aviation! Be sure to check the weather and plan accordingly with hats, sunblock, jackets, or rain gear as necessary. Food trucks will be available, or you are welcome to bring small coolers. Camping chairs are encouraged!
Our venue is Hartford Municipal Airport, where we are hosted by Kylie's Cub Air Flight School.
NEW IN 2024: VIP Ticket Option with reserved seating on the start/finish line, with chairs provided and a tent for shade. Non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks included with your ticket purchase. Space is limited-reserve today!
Event Schedule
All times are tentative and subject to change
Thursday, July 18
3:00pm – Camping Opens
3:00-5:00pm – Camping and Competitor Check In
5:00pm – Competitor Registration Closes
Friday, July 19
9:00am-11:00am – Camping and Competitor Check In
10:30am – Volunteer Briefing
11:00am – Mandatory New Competitor Safety Briefing
11:30am – General Safety Briefing for all pilots who choose to practice
12:30-5:00pm – Competitor Practice
5:00pm – Fly out to Rock the Ramp
Saturday, July 20
8:30-9:30am – Camping and Competitor Check In; Breakfast available for Pilots and Volunteers
9:00am – Volunteer Briefing
9:30am – Mandatory Competitor Safety Briefing
9:30am – Gates Open for Spectators
10:30am – Competition Begins
There will be a 10-15 minute break in between competition classes. We anticipate the competition will finish between 3:00 and 4:00pm.
6:00pm – Closing Dinner and Awards Ceremony
Sunday, July 21
11:00am – Camping Closes
Compete
Before proceeding with your registration, be sure to review the 2024 National STOL Rules. During your registration, you will be asked to fill out your pilot profile, including uploading a photo of yourself and one of your aircraft.
If you are a first time National STOL competitor, or if you have not competed in more than two years, note that you are required to participate in Friday's practice day and New Competitor Safety Briefing. Schedule your travel plans accordingly!
Standard and Rookie Class registration fees are $175 through Sunday, July 14. Starting on Monday, July 15, the registration fee will increase to $250.
Volunteer
Camp
Competitors: You receive one complimentary camping space with your competitor registration. Instructions on how to claim this space will be provided in your confirmation email.
UNDERWING, RV, and GENERAL TENT CAMPING inside the airfield is by advance reservation only!
Camping opens on Thursday, July 18 at 3:00pm and closes on Sunday, July 21 at 11:00am. Camping is primitive. No hook ups are available; bring your own water and generators! All camping reservations include 2 adult general admission tickets to Saturday’s competition. In addition, food trucks will be on site for your convenience.