The Columbus Air Show's big comeback
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The U.S. Navy Blue Angels demonstration team in a 2022 performance in San Diego. Photo: Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images
For the first time in 16 years, aircraft stunts will streak the skies at a Columbus air show.
Why it matters: Organizers are treating this year's three-day event at Rickenbacker International Airport as a test run before they decide whether to bring it back next year or eventually turn it into an annual event.
- The return of the spectacle seems long overdue, with tickets already sold out for Saturday and Sunday and few remaining for today.
Details: The iconic blue-and-yellow U.S. Navy Blue Angels are headlining in their first local performance since 1995.
- Other attractions include the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors, STOL Drag Racing and the Ohio Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotankers, which are fueled and maintained at Rickenbacker.
The big picture: Columbus is the country's largest metro area without a regular air show, event producer Herb Gillen tells Axios. His Upper Arlington-based company organizes shows across the country and he wanted to bring the tradition back to his hometown.
By the numbers: Over 100,000 people are expected to attend, which could eclipse the popular, longstanding shows in Dayton and Cleveland.
- The event cost "well north of $1 million," Gillen says.
What they're saying: "It takes a lot to put on an air show on top of regular airport operations," Columbus Regional Airport Authority spokesperson Sarah McQuaide tells Axios, crediting Gillen for making the event possible.
- "Many of us in the industry can specifically recall an airshow that sparked our passion. It's a privilege for us to possibly spark that interest in the next generation."
What we're watching: Gillen anticipates a decision on 2024 "will happen fairly quickly after this year's show."
🎟️ If you go: 9am-5pm today, but most flights will happen between noon-4pm. 2241 John Circle Drive. $55 general admission, free for kids under 16. $30 parking.
