By Sam Sasin, EAA 1463840

Photography by Sam Sasin, Connor Madison, and Alden Frautschy

Founded in the 1970s in Minnesota, Marginal Aviation has been home to many antique airplane enthusiasts, builders, and restorers for decades. In 2014, looking for the next generation of antiquers to carry on the organization, Marginal was revitalized with a new annual event called “First Ditch.” This event, meant to signify the beginning of the vintage flying season, has been growing exponentially for the last decade.

First Ditch took place in 2026 on June 4-6 and had a record-breaking year. According to Marginal board of trustees member Vaughn Lovley, EAA 708767/Vintage 718303, there were 136 airplanes in attendance from both coasts and 15 different states over the weekend ranging from antique, classic, and contemporary eras. There were also 2,700 gallons of gas purchased at the airport in Le Sueur, Minnesota, over the weekend due to the beautiful flying weather.

Enjoy this gallery of photos from the successful event!