Duluth-native to fly in upcoming Duluth Air Show
DULUTH, Minn. – A Duluth-native will take to the sky in the up coming Duluth Air Show.
Jon Melby has been flying in air shows for about 25-years., and now is finally coming to his hometown to fly.
Melby attended Congdon Park Elementary, Ordean Junior High School, and East High School.
Melby says flying in the Duluth Air Show will be a career highlight, but he’ll have to keep extra focus on his show.
“It’s ridiculous. I’m like a little kid because I’m so excited to go back home.” Melby continued, “It’s dangerous. Its dangerous because as an airshow pilot I need to focus on the airplane, but I’m also going back home. So exciting too.”
Melby loves to do the flips and tricks while flying.
He’s even been a stunt pilot for Hollywood movies, but his real thrill is getting more people interested in flying.
“The reason why I do this is because I’m an advocate for aviation,” Melby explained. “I want to inspire young and old alike to be able to fly. What’s interesting is that I’ve run into 50-year-old men, as an example at the show, I’m signing autographs and they’re like ‘I always wanted to fly, but I’m too old or I can’t or…’ An exasperated Melby responds by saying, “What is wrong with you? Just go out and fly with the flight instructor and just go around the flag pole a couple of times. Fly the airplane a couple times and maybe that think will bite you.”
His plane is named “FearBoss” honoring his business helping people overcome fears and gaining confidence.
Melby also has a children’s book about a child’s first airplane ride and over coming the fear of flying.
The Duluth Air Show is July 5 & 6 2025.
