LOCK HAVEN, PA — Aviation enthusiasts attending the 39th annual Sentimental Journey Fly-In in 2025 are in for a rare treat. Acclaimed aviation photographer and retired airline captain Tom Pawlesh will be showcasing his signature nocturnal aircraft photography during this year’s event, held at the historic Lock Haven Airport from June 17–21. Best known for his dramatic night portraits of vintage and modern aircraft, Pawlesh uses carefully arranged lighting techniques to bathe airplanes in a warm glow, often incorporating period-appropriate props like antique cars. His distinctive images often feature aircraft posed with engines running, producing a silvery blur from spinning propellers that adds a sense of motion and mystique to each composition.
As part of this year’s fly-in, Pawlesh will offer complimentary sunset photography sessions on Wednesday, June 18 and Thursday, June 19. Up to five or six aircraft could be photographed each evening, conditions permitting, with each aircraft taxiing into position for a quick session before fading daylight closes the window. Pawlesh, who began photographing at age 14 and went on to a 35-year career flying for major airlines, holds ratings in a wide array of aircraft including the DC-9, Boeing 737, 757, and 767, as well as the Airbus A319/320/321 and A330. Though his portfolio spans wildlife and nature, his passion remains focused on aviation.
Photographing airplanes at night comes with challenges, Pawlesh noted. Sunset in Lock Haven occurs around 8:45 p.m. in mid-June, meaning sessions typically begin after 9 p.m. Each aircraft requires several minutes to stage and photograph, and the ideal lighting depends heavily on weather conditions—particularly the presence of high clouds without precipitation. “I always have a problem of people saying they’re interested but then backing out at the last minute,” Pawlesh said with a laugh. “It’s late in the evening, and the beer begins to flow; I do understand.” To help pilots visualize the possibilities, Pawlesh will also display some of his framed works in the blue building on-site during the event. He encourages interested aircraft owners to contact him directly to discuss logistics and scheduling. He can be reached at (412) 973-7369 or via email at [email protected]. More of his work is available at tompawlesh-aviation.smugmug.com.
A Fly-In with History and Growth
The Sentimental Journey Fly-In began in 1986 as a tribute to Piper Aircraft, which had built airplanes in Lock Haven for half a century. Originally focused on the iconic “tube-and-fabric” Piper Cubs, the event has since grown into one of the nation’s most welcoming general aviation gatherings. Today, a wide array of aircraft can be seen on the field, from Aeroncas and Stearmans to Cessnas, Wacos, and homebuilts from Vans and Cubcrafters. For more information, visit www.sjflyin.com.
In a major highlight for 2025, the fly-in will also host the Short Wing Piper Club’s annual convention concurrently at Lock Haven Airport, bringing even more aviation devotees to the central Pennsylvania town. The 39th annual Sentimental Journey Fly-In will take place from Tuesday, June 17, through Saturday, June 21, 2025. For more information, visit the event’s official site or contact the organizers at (570) 893-4200.
