The club's hangar, at Bathurst Airport, was a hive of activity as visitors had the chance to look at a number of planes, go for a trial instruction flight or try out a flight simulator.

Bathurst Aero Club's vice president Ian Johnson said the open day was all about inviting the public into the club to see what goes on.

"If there are people who want to learn to fly, we have instructors here who can talk about flying; we have instruction flights if they want to go up and have a flight.

"There are also a lot of aeroplanes to look at ... what we are trying to do is share the aviation community with the broader community to create awareness."

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Mr Johnson said the club was delighted with the turnout.

"We didn't know how many people we would have, but three quarters through the day we've had around 130 people come through, so we're pleased with that. It's the first open day we've had in many years," he said.

"It's good to see everyone come out and enjoy themselves. We had people who are ex-Qantas engineers coming out and looking at the aircraft, and older pilots who have given up their licence and coming out and thinking they want to get back into it.

"That's what this is all about - stirring some of that passion and enthusiasm."

During the day, guests also took the opportunity to try the club's flight simulator, which was popular.

"We're very lucky to have it here," Mr Johnson said.

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