How to make the most out of a business trip? By extending your stay and enjoying some of the local airshows. The first one that I visited was at El Centro, where on 16 March 2019, the legendary Blue Angels kicked off their 2019 Season.
The legendary Blue Angels is the United States Navy’s flight demonstration squadron which was initially formed in 1946 making it the second oldest formal flying aerobatic team (under the same name) in the world, after the French Patrouille de France formed in 1931. The Blue Angels’ McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornets (numbered 1–6) are currently flown by five Navy demonstration pilots and one Marine Corps demonstration pilot.
During winter times, the Blue Angels are stationed at the Naval Air Facility (NAF) of El Centro, California USA.
El Centro is a city in and county seat of Imperial County, California, the largest city in the Imperial Valley, east anchor of the Southern California Border Region, and the core urban area and principal city of the El Centro metropolitan area which encompasses all of Imperial County. El Centro is also the largest American city to lie entirely below sea level (?42 feet or ?13 meters). The city, located in southeastern California, is 110 miles (177 kilometers) from the major Southern California city of San Diego (approximately a two hours drive) and near the Mexican city of Mexicali.
The Naval Air Facility opened to the Grand Public and the local Communities for a one day ‘open house’, free Airshow, demonstrating the Best technologies and workforce.
The El Centro airshow took place on March 16th. They presented a great line up along with many static aircraft (including a unannounced F35).
The Program included the USAF Academy Wings of Blue Launch, a myriad of Warbirds, a T33 from Greg Colyer, the Stearman with Vicky Benzing, the USAF Wings of Blue, the stylish L39 Firecat from Rich Perkins and more; to conclude with the Blue Angels.
It is always a treat to see the Blue Angels. Stunning maneuvers and agility at its finest. Probably the Finest definition of ‘Team Work’ {Behind the Scenes} While pilots prepare or just fly, there is a dedicated & resourceful Team supporting them. Each demonstration is a brilliant Achievement.
A US Airshow wouldn’t be a show without the famous Shockwave Jet Truck which made a several stunning appearance on the runway.
On March 25th, 2019, the Blue Angels headed back to their regular quarters at the Naval Air Station of Pensacola or NAS Pensacola, “The Cradle of Naval Aviation”, this United States Navy base is located next to Warrington, Florida, a community southwest of the Pensacola city limits.
Should you be on a business trip in the US, check out their busy schedules and see if it could fit your schedule. It is always a treat. Further 2019 shows are planned as followed:
