Beech Bash in the Bluegrass
Where Beechcraft Owners Come Together - One of a Kind Fly-In
Get ready for an aviation experience you'll never forget! Each year in late April, Western Kentucky welcomes pilots and enthusiasts with typically beautiful weather—perfect for flying and enjoying the outdoors. The Beech Bash in the Bluegrass is more than just a fly-in; it's a celebration of the Beechcraft community, aviation, and shared passion.
Join fellow Beechcraft and Bonanza owners for a weekend filled with camaraderie, unforgettable memories, and the joy of being surrounded by those who share your love of flight. Beyond the airplanes on the ramp, you'll hear from some of the biggest names in general aviation. Our lineup of guest speakers will inspire, educate, and share invaluable knowledge, making this one of the premier fly-in events you won't want to miss.
Come for the airplanes—stay for the friendships, the stories, and the unique experiences that truly set this fly-in apart.
Meet the Founder
✈️ Samuel Guirguis
aka "Grand Poohbah"
Founder of Beech Bash
Samuel Guirguis transformed his aviation experience into a legendary celebration, earning notable honors such as the Kentucky Colonel and Kentucky ACE. These accolades highlight his leadership, vision, commitment to safety in aviation, and his positive impact on the community. As a visionary leader and ultimate community connector, he continues to uplift the Beechcraft community and keep the spirit of fly-in events alive with the Beech Bash!
A Dream Born on the Ramp
One pilot's passion for community, Beechcraft, and Kentucky hospitality — and how it became something much bigger. It started the way most great aviation stories do — with a pilot, a Beechcraft, and a simple question: "Why isn't there a fly-in that truly celebrates this community, fellowship, education, and fun?" Samuel Guirguis had been flying Beechcraft aircraft for years, attending events across the country, and always leaving with the same feeling: something was missing.
That something was a gathering built specifically for Beechcraft owners and enthusiasts — a place where the shared love of these legendary aircraft could take center stage, surrounded by the warmth and charm that only Kentucky can offer.
An Idea Takes Flight
Samuel Guirguis, a passionate Beechcraft owner and community connector, envisioned a fly-in unlike any other — one rooted in genuine camaraderie, world-class speakers, and the rolling bluegrass beauty of Kentucky. The concept was simple: bring the best of the Beechcraft world together in one place.
Beech Bash Is Born
The inaugural Beech Bash in the Bluegrass exceeded every expectation. Pilots flew in from across the country, friendships were forged on the ramp, and the event quickly earned a reputation as one of the most welcoming and well-organized fly-ins in general aviation.
More Than a Fly-In
Year after year, Beech Bash grew — not just in attendance, but in heart. Guest speakers from the biggest names in aviation, technical forums, and unforgettable social events turned a weekend fly-in into a pilgrimage for the Beechcraft faithful.
A 501(c)(3) Mission
Beech Bash in the Bluegrass became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, cementing its commitment to the aviation community. All proceeds from merchandise sales go directly back into funding future events and supporting the pilots and enthusiasts who make it all possible.
2027 and Beyond
With a new home at KIOB Mt. Sterling–Montgomery County Airport in Mt. Sterling, KY, Beech Bash 2027 promises to be the biggest and best yet. April 22–25, 2027 — mark your calendars and get ready to be part of the story.
The Man Behind It All
Samuel Guirguis
aka "Grand Poohbah"
Founder, Beech Bash in the Bluegrass
In the early 2000s, I purchased a small farm in Hopkins County, Kentucky, following a brief visit to a quaint little town called Dawson Springs. I referred to it as a hunt camp, but it really became my getaway from the busy businesses in South Florida. After enduring numerous brutal 16-hour drives, I got my pilot's certificate and began flying myself into aviation gatherings. I started in a Grumman Tiger, but soon upgraded to a Bonanza F33A — and then an A36TC, which ticked every box.
As a responsible steward of these fine aircraft, I joined the American Bonanza Society and connected with several Bonanza Facebook groups. It's only natural that exceptional aircraft attract exceptional individuals. In November 2021, flying back to my Kentucky home airport in Madisonville, I was mesmerized by the beautiful views and decided to videotape my arrival. Later that evening, watching the footage, an idea struck me: what a perfect location for a Beech Bash where I could invite all my friends from social media.
On November 26, 2021, I posted the video on a Facebook group called Beechcraft Bonanza – Owners, Pilots, and Enthusiasts, and tagged 22 Beechcraft friends. The response was overwhelming — over 121 comments expressing interest. My immediate thought was, "Great, now what do I do?" I reached out to Mark Baker, president of AOPA, to speak. To my surprise, he not only agreed but was genuinely enthusiastic. That's when I realized things were becoming real fast.
On April 30, 2022, we hosted the 1st Annual Beech Bash in the Bluegrass — and as anyone present will attest, it was a massive success. We gave away fantastic prizes, gained insights from industry experts, enjoyed incredible Bluegrass music, indulged in great food, participated in full motion simulator rides, shot a flintlock rifle, enjoyed skeet shooting, and sipped bourbon. Attendees reached out to tell me it was the most enjoyable social fly-in they had ever attended.
Fly safe, Beech Bashers — and I'll see you soon!
Be Part of the Next Chapter
Beech Bash 2027 is coming to Mt. Sterling, KY — and we want you there. Stay tuned for registration, speakers, and everything else we have in store.
See What's Coming in 2027