Several of us were awaiting the start of the airshow and the topic of our conversation was the lack of any real jet performances up to this point at Oshkosh.  Today’s show started, as it does each day, with a performance of the national anthem.  However, I noted that there was something missing.  The anthem is usually performed during the parachuting of the flag from a jump plane.  Today, no jumper and no flag.  But as the last notes of the anthem were being sung from behind airshow center (where no one was looking) came the sound we had moments before been missing.  To the astonishment and delight of the crowds the US Navy Blue Angels passed low, fast and directly overhead.  Even the airshow announcer was not in on the surprise.  After two passes they departed with their signature burst maneuver.

Later in the show as an Air Force KC-10 Tanker made several passes it was announced that the tanker had been positioned to refuel the team as it made its way to its next event.  According to their schedule the Blue Angels are to perform at the Fargo Airshow in Fargo, ND next Sunday, July 28th.  Serendipitous for the crowds at Oshkosh that their flight path allowed for the diversion.

I’ve been attending airshows for some time. I know that Red Bull Air Races are to aviation what the World Series is to baseball. But I never knew there was a Red Bull Air Force, that is, until today. Consisting of an Edge 540, an MBB 105 Helicopter and wing suit jumpers they put on quite a show. Here are a few photos from their performance today.

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There is a myth that pilots think themselves as being named to a higher calling than the rest of humanity (I know, that was bad. But cut me some slack, its late at night). I’m here to tell you that today that myth was busted. Just look at the friendly waves and happy postures of these two performers. The pilot was so eager to show this that he is standing up and leaning into the back seat of the biplane!!

The afternoon airshow ended with the first of what will be several Heritage Flights. The Heritage Flight was established by the Air Force to honor the men and women who have served and are serving in the US Air Force. Heritage Flights feature aircraft from several eras and are impressive to watch.

Wednesday at Oshkosh is the night airshow and fireworks. Unfortunately, as it did last year, the weather did not cooperate. Mother Nature put on her own show with thunder, lightning, heavy rain with gusty winds. I’m sure that there are many campers who are not happy tonight.

Fly safe.

Ken

http://www.columbiaairservices.com