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Airshow prep in full swing

  • Published
  • By Karen Petitt
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill --  More than 40 key workers are fine tuning planning details as they prepare for the Sept. 19-20 airshow that features the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights. 

"We're about 60 days out from the show, so all the big pieces are being finalized, and now we're working on all the small details," said Maj. Robert Shull, the air boss for the event. 

As air boss, he coordinates the air demonstration performances and static display aircraft. He works with civilian counterparts to help manage timing of aircraft scheduled to perform throughout both days. 

"What people don't realize is that it takes about a year of planning to make an airshow happen," he explained. "These next two months will be where everything comes together from working with aircrews, to ground displays, to safety and medical coverage, to putting up posters throughout the area." 

This is Scott's fourth consecutive airshow and the first ever for hosting the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. 

Lt. Col. Michael Kayser, airshow director, said he couldn't be happier that this team agreed to perform here. 

"It's a different show than the Thunderbirds or Blue Angels," he said. "There are more aircraft in the formations flying the CT-114 Tutor aircraft and its fun to watch. We're glad we can highlight this team, which is celebrating 100 years of performing." 

Along with the aerial demo team, the Army's Golden Knights are set to perform. This parachute team is also celebrating 50 years of performing and competing. The Air Force heritage will be on display with aircraft dating back to WWII and of course the show will feature today's modern aircraft such as the F-15 and C-17. 

"What I think is great about an Air Force open house, or airshow, is that it's a great free family event that shows the local community what we're all about here. It showcases what our base looks like, what equipment we're using, and our mission. People will see what aircraft we fly and give them a chance to talk with pilots, maintainers and support personnel from all types of career fields." 

He said one of the big challenges in pulling off an airshow is making sure that all the moving parts are coordinated well and ensuring the safety of both the aircrews and the public as they enjoy the show. 

"We're working hard to make this a great event, so I hope everyone keeps their calendars clear for that weekend in September. We'd love to see you out here!"
For more details on the airshow, visit www.scott.af.mil/airshow2009.asp .