Last night’s premiere of Flying High: The Story of the Habersham County Airport was met with enthusiastic applause, heartfelt appreciation, and an overwhelming sense of community pride.
Produced by Habersham History President Peter Madruga, the documentary tells the story of how vision, persistence, and leadership brought an airport to Habersham County — a project that forever changed the region’s future.
More than 30 people attended the premiere, and the response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive. Viewers praised the storytelling, historical depth, and emotional connection to the county’s aviation roots.
Many members of the documentary’s cast were present for the screening, including two especially honored guests — Senator John Foster and Dean Swanson. Sixty years ago, these two men helped lead the original effort to bring an airport to Habersham County.

Front row: Dean Swanson, Senator John Foster/Photo Habersham News
Before the film began, their presence was announced to the audience, prompting thunderous applause in appreciation for their decades-long legacy. The moment served as a powerful reminder that the airport’s story is not just about runways and planes, but about people who believed in Habersham County’s future.
Following the screening, audience members shared their praise for the documentary, noting how meaningful it was to see local history preserved and presented on screen for future generations.
For those who were unable to attend the premiere, the documentary is now available to watch on the Habersham History YouTube Channel at:
👉 https://youtu.be/ank4HWQSYpc
Flying High: The Story of the Habersham County Airport now stands as a lasting tribute to the visionaries, leaders, and community members who helped Habersham County quite literally take flight.





