Key West The Newspaper

The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team The Blue Angels and other military and civilian aerial performances will fill the skies of the Florida Keys on Saturday and Sunday, April 2 and 3, at the Naval Air Station Key West “Southernmost Air Spectacular” air show at Boca Chica Field.

Admission and parking are free. The gates open at 9 a.m. and the show will begin at 10:30 a.m. with the Blue Angels flying at 2:30 p.m. Boca Chica Field is located at MM 8 on U.S. 1.

In addition to the Blue Angels, the air station has invited an amazing list of high energy aerial performers. Military acts include the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122 “Flying Eagles” Flight Demonstration Team, featuring the F/A-18 Super Hornet, the hometown Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC) 111 “Sun Downers,” and the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) Para-Commandos Jump Team. Civilian acts include Greg Shelton, flying his Stearman with Wing Walker Ashley Key; Melissa Pemberton in her Edge 540 aircraft; Bill Gordon will perform in his T-6; Skip Stewart flying his Prometheus modified aircraft; Rob Holland (MXS-RH) and Jack Knutson (EXTRA 300s) will perform as the Firebirds in a two-ship act, as well as their own solo performances; Michael Goulian will perform in the EXTRA 330SC and Matt Younkin in his Beech 18.

This year’s show will also be the first-ever visit of the VFA-101 “Grim Reapers,” who will have two of their F-35C Joint Strike Fighters on display for the crowds to see. There will also be many other static military and vintage aircraft, and military displays that will be accessible on the air field, as well as the Budweiser Clydesdales.

The Southernmost Air Spectacular is one of the largest family events in the Keys. Along with the remarkable performances in the air, the Kids Zone will entertain your children all day long. The 300 ft. zip line, enormous inflatable games, rock climbing wall and bungee jump are just a few. There will be plenty of food and beverages available for purchase.

For more information about the air show visit the Facebook page “NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular” or go to www.airshowkeywest.com. For reserved seating on the flight line visit the air show website. For general information call Emma Harlow at (305) 293-2503. For more information, contact the NAS Key West Public Affairs Office at (305) 293-2027.

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