WESTFIELD–It’s official–the US Air Force Thunderbirds will be soaring over the Whip City skies Aug. 12 and 13, 2017, for the Westfield International Air Show at Barnes Regional Airport.
US Air Force Thunderbirds F16 jets perform during an air show.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)
The Thunderbirds are the first act to confirm that they will be at the Westfield International Air Show. The air show will be the first in Westfield since 2010, after the US National Guard lessened the frequency of the events due to budgetary concerns.
The Thunderbirds are an aerobatic flying squadron that are assigned to the 57th Wing of US Air Force. They perform many unconventional aerial maneuvers, both in formation and in solo flight, creating a spectacle for viewers.
According to Barnes Regional Airport manager Brian Barnes, next year’s air show will have new and improved organization, in order to prevent some of the mishaps of 2010’s event. Barnes also said that he will continue to work with the airport and the US National Guard through all the planning phases to make sure all goes swimmingly, in spite of his resignation from the airport manager position Sept. 1.
“We have to worry about security, and even something as simple as Porta-potties,” Barnes said. “Another thing we have to worry about is traffic–it was bad last time.”
Some of the early plans that Barnes talked about included satellite parking for spectators, where they can be shuttled to and from the airport instead of congesting roadways around the airport during the event.
Also, Barnes said that the airport will attempt to get sponsors for the event, so they can raise money for the city and the airport. Sponsors may be asked to purchase tents that will be set up on the tarmac.
And regarding any potential cost, Barnes didn’t want people to be concerned.
“We don’t pay anything in,” Barnes said about the city possibly financing the air show. “The National Guard pays for it.”
“However, the National Guard donates to the city. Last time we got $200,000,” Barnes added.
Barnes said that with the official addition of the Thunderbirds, more acts will follow and commit to the show. For more information, visit: www.westfieldairshow.net
