5 of the World’s Best Airshows

Written by Dabney B. on Thursday, February 9th, 2012

It’s hard not to be attracted to military aircraft. They’re expensive, high-tech, dangerous, and are capable of absurd speeds and even greater levels of destruction. Above all else, they represent mankind’s triumph over flight. As alluring as aircraft are, the public doesn’t get much exposure to military aircraft. Unless you’re enlisted, your best chance of seeing a fighter jet is one just happens to fly overhead.

Air shows are the big exception, as they allow thousands of civilians a chance to experience the power of state-of-the-art aircraft and the incredible skill of its pilots. For those looking for a weekend to remember, here are 5 of the world’s most remarkable airshows.

5. CAF Airsho – Midland, Texas

Not every airshow is committed to breaking the sound barrier in front of an audience and performing absurd high-speed stunts. Every year, Commemorative Air Force puts on its Airsho (yes, that’s how it’s spelled), displaying some of history’s greatest World War II fighter planes and other warbirds. The CAF Airsho is perfect for those history buffs who want a taste of what it was like to fly in the World War II era.

4. China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition

A relatively new tradition that started in 1996, China’s Aerospace Exhibition is its largest airshow. With China’s growing economy and its continued advancements in the field of aerospace generic cialis technology, it would be wise to watch out for the next show. These airshows are bound to be more impressive with every passing year.

3. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh – Oshkosh, Wisconsin

As America’s largest airshow, this annual event typically pulls in 750,000 onlookers to check out the thousands of show aircraft, from warbirds and fighter jets to helicopters and NASA aircraft. One of the main attractions is the nighttime airshow, an event wherein planes twirl through the skies with blazing wings and fireworks.

2. Bournemouth Air Festival

Accepting aircraft all types, the Bournemouth Air Festival is nothing short of an Event (capital “E”). In 2011, Bournemouth attracted a whopping 1.3 million visitors over a four day period. Aerial shows, hot air balloon rides, beach sports, shopping areas, crowd activities, and opportunities to meet and greet officials from the air forces of the world make the Bournemouth Air Festival quite possibly the most epic airshow available.

1. Royal International Air Tattoo

Usually held in the United Kingdom’s Gloucestershire, the RIAT is the world’s single largest military airshow. The airshow highlights many international aircraft, including the first public display and show landing of the USAF’s B-2A Bomber. Those lucky enough to be in the UK this July should be certain to stop by the Air Tattoo for a display of military excellence unlike anything else on earth.

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