BRUNSWICK

The Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority hosted the American Yankee Association, an international nonprofit organization for owners and pilots who fly Grumman aircraft, this week.

With members all over the world, about 120 members flew in on Wednesday from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany and Canada for the organization’s annual convention. The bright display of 40-50 Grummans at the Brunswick Executive Airport on Thursday was a rare, but welcoming sight.

Matthew Drahzal, an AYA member from New Hampshire, likened the light aircraft to sports cars.

“These planes were designed to be sporty,” he said. “This is like the BMW of general aviation airplanes. They perform nicely and they’re fuel efficient.”

Don Godfrey of Yarmouth, who provides the organization’s connection to Maine, helped plan some sightseeing activities for the travelers, introducing members to popular destinations like Cabbage Island and Maine Maritime Museum — complete with lots of lobster.

Godfrey, who currently owns two Grumman planes, has been an AYA member for five years, though this is his first convention.

“These folks are all very passionate about these airplanes. They’re great planes, they’re fun to fly,” he said. “And we all get to know each other, so we look forward to these events once a year. It’s a lot of fun.”

On Thursday afternoon, the group participated in flying formations and competitions, as well as a silent auction.

The organization currently raises funds for aviation scholarships for young people interested in flight training around the world. So far, they have raised $68,000 for scholarships in the U.S., Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Enjoyed Maine

Nigel “Ni” Thomas, a retired sea captain from the United Kingdom who has been flying for more than 30 years, said he has enjoyed his time in Maine, especially with the overwhelming response from the community.

As far as the views from the sky, he said flying over Maine was “delightful.”

“I’ve flown most of the U.S. now, and it’s all got its own special things,” he said. “The Rockies are spectacular, but over here — delightful. There’s a difference.”

Drahzal also commended the Brunswick airport for its spacious location and noted its potential for growth.

“This is a well run airport,” he said. “I’ve personally flown all over the world and everything here has just been perfect.”

Ben Sturtevant, marketing and communications manager at MRRA, said traffic is increasing at the airport with the addition of 20 percent of operations each year.

“We’re doing a lot of outreach out of state and out of country right now,” he said.

Sturtevant also hoped that other organizations and air shows would consider hosting events at Brunswick after seeing the success of the convention this week.

Brunswick seems to have already made an impression on the AYA.

Although this was the first time the organization hosted an event in Maine, Drahzal was convinced this wouldn’t be their last: “I’m pretty persuaded that there will be a chance we’ll be back.”