There is an old grass runway in La Salle, IL on the east side of Route 251. If you live here, you have probably driven past it without much thought.
Years of progress in Peru have included projects like the Illinois Valley Regional Airport. It has 2 lighted, paved runways. These runways can handle a variety of business aircraft in most weather conditions. The airport is a huge asset to La Salle County.
The other end of the spectrum is Flaherty Field. It was used for recreation and business aircraft alike for many years. Its grass runway is now frequently used by a club who fly radio controlled model planes. However, a few aircraft are still in the hangers.
La Salle native John Oklesen spends summers in La Salle County and always brings one of his planes with him. He has offered to fly locals in his plane for a fee. The proceeds will go towards the preservation and upkeep of this small airport. The airport seems relatively untouched by time.
John has taken many people for their first flight in a small plane, including three generations of my family. The video above is two of my nephews on their first flights at Flaherty Field.
Photo credits from the air go to Owen age 8, and Wyatt age 6.