Earlier in the week I half jokingly discussed what it is about an airshow that attracts us and then keeps us coming back year after year. While the sound of an afterburner does get the adrenaline pumping I believe the real reason may go much deeper than that. Knowing that today was my last day for Sun ‘n Fun 2019, I thought I’d show you why I believe we enjoy and keep returning to airshows.
We come to see the big aircraft that use a lot of runway,
and little aircraft that need almost no runway.
We come to marvel at the latest in ultra high-tech…
but are reminded that the laws of aerodynamics are universal.
We come to acknowledge the hero’s of the past…
so that we can smile at the imitations of today.
We come for the loud and aggressive…
which helps us appreciate the quiet and nimble.
While all of this may be true I believe the real reason is, that as it has been since man first mastered the sky, knowing that at the end of the day the camaraderie of our fellow pilots awaits us.
Thanks for taking the time to come along with me at Sun ‘n Fun 2019. I hope that this has brought at least a little of the event to those who could not be here. Looking forward to Oshkosh and visiting with you again.
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines teamwork as “work done by several associates with each doing a part but all subordinating personal prominence to the efficiency of the whole.”
According to Wikipedia “Teamwork is the collaborative effort of a team to achieve a common goal or to complete a task in the most effective and efficient way. This concept is seen within the greater framework of a team, which is a group of interdependent individuals who work together towards a common goal.”
As I watched the Blue Angels perform today the concept of teamwork became very clear to me. The top photo looks to me as a perfect example of teamwork as Mirriam-Webster defines it. An obvious extension from this would be all of the groups who performed but that would not tell the entire story either. Certainly each individual performer has a “group of interdependent individuals who work together towards a common goal” that being a safe and successful performance. Sun ‘n Fun itself is a team effort. And the list can go on and on.
I’ve attended more airshows than I can remember. I’ve seen many of the same performers perform the same show. But today, watching from the perspective of teamwork I think I appreciated the show more.
Here are a few more examples from the airshow.
Blue Angels Knife Edge PassGEICO SkytypersAeroshell TeamPhillips 66 AerostarsTwin Tigers
I’ve had several comments about the tower images posted in earlier blogs this week. In fact, someone actually challenged my statement about the Controllers. This person, who shall remain nameless, wrote “… the Controllers in the tower are much too busy and have no time for such frivolity.”
Take a close look at the walkway on the outside of the tower cab. Looks like standing room only to me. What’s that old saying about a picture being worth 1,000 words. I mean, just saying…
Tomorrow will be my last day at Sun ‘n Fun 2019. The post will recap the week. Until tomorrow…
Call me an Airshow junky. It’s happened before. Deep down inside we all come to airshows for the same reason but we just won’t admit it. Fast, loud and close to the ground is what we wait for while we pass the time admiring a fully restored vintage aircraft. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not taking anything away from those machines and the hours that their dedicated owners invested to make them show pieces. But really, its ok to admit it to me. Your heart rate jumps when you hear an afterburner light off.
Something could be felt in the air today at Sun ‘n Fun. There was an expectancy that was palpable. So it was that a collective relief was felt from the crowd as six F/A 18’s appeared, seemingly from nowhere, low and loud along the flight line. And knowing that there were many in the crowd, like myself, who needed the adrenaline rush the team flew not once but twice during the day. The Blues will perform another practice tomorrow. Tomorrow cannot come too soon. (Sorry for the poetic waxing but, after all it is my blog).
Sun ‘n Fun shows no favoritism when it comes to our protective forces. The Air Force, Navy, Customs and Border Patrol and the Army are all represented. Today the US Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights, opened the main airshow by putting 8 jumpers into the air. Trailing smoke and performing aerobatic maneuvers during their descent each jumper made a precision landing look easy even with the gusty winds.
As I mentioned above, an airshow would not be complete without the dedicated efforts of those who restore and display the great aircraft of the past. There are many examples of these labors of love along the warbirds flight line. While walking the flight line this morning the morning sun, the polished metal and bright colors all combined to make this a photo I could not resist taking. This is a P-51D that was originally delivered in 1945. Awarded the EAA AirVenture Best Fighter Award in 2013 it is a welcome airshow participant.
Then there are some aircraft that are just, well, kind of unusual looking. The Grumman OV-1 certainly falls into that category. Looking like a cross between a miniature Lockheed Constellation and a Bell Helicopter its history suggests a nobler cause. Developed jointly by the Army and Marines the Mohawk, as it was nicknamed, was designed to replace the Cessna L-19 Bird Dog. It’s primary functions were to be a faster more well armored observation and light attack aircraft. Equipped with Side Looking Airborne Radar (SLAR) later models saw the addition of drop pods and even some experimentation with FLIR systems. The Mohawk remained active with international armed forces until 2015.
Unless you’ve not been to an airshow or read any aviation news in the last several years the name Michael Goulian is one you’ll be familiar with. Michael’s precision aerobatic style has earned him numerous awards around the world. This precision flying has also recently earned him third place in the current Red Bull Air Race standings. During yesterday’s performance Michael accommodated the Tower Controllers when they asked him to perform a fly by so they could set there wrist watches. (I know, I’m on a tower thing this Sun ‘n Fun).
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast for the afternoon tomorrow which could impact the airshow. Until tomorrow…
Cool temperatures and a cloudless sky at Sun n’ Fun 2019 today. What could be better than that for a perfect airshow day? Not much I think. Today was a day for precision aerobatics sprinkled with a mix of vintage warbirds.
Kyle Franklin is shown here in his Demon-1 biplane, also known as Dracula. Combine the 500 horsepower Pratt R-985 engine with a Waco airframe that has been modified to achieve roll rates of over 300 degrees per second and you have an aircraft capable of a performance that keeps your head moving non-stop. And that is just what this veteran airshow favorite did.
Originally delivered in 1945 Panchito is a meticulously restored B-25J. With over 9,800 originally built the B-25 was the largest production of twin engine combat aircraft built during WW II. While Panchito never saw action in the war it served equally important missions as a trainer for navigators, bombardiers and airborne radar testing. When not touring it can be seen at the Delaware Aviation Museum.
Matt Chapman brings a long history of thrilling airshow audiences. Flying aerobatics since 1984 he has won numerous awards. Next time you fly a commercial airliner pay attention to the names of the crew. When not flying airshows he is a captain for a major airline.
The Douglas C-47 is an aircraft that has played many roles in its history. Developed from a passenger aircraft, the DC 3, this aircraft saw action in several campaigns in both Pacific and European campaigns of WW II and also in Vietnam. After the war it continued to prove its value with many being converted back to civilian service. The aircraft was in regular service until as recently as 2012. This aircraft is owned and maintained by the Confederate Air Force.
The Lockheed T-33 was developed after WW II to train the next generation of combat pilots for the coming of the jet age. Designed by Kelly Johnson (of Skunk Works fame) specifically as a trainer it was used by the armed forces of many nations until as recently as 2017. The T-33 “Lightning” in today’s show was flown by Greg Colyer of Ace Maker Airshows. He followed the F-16 Viper performance and the contrast between the two aircraft was like an angry pit bull to a sleek grey hound (my comparisons so no hate mail please!).
In further support of my position yesterday that the Tower Controllers have the best seat in the house I present “Dracula.” Seen here on one of several passes from today’s performance I’m sure that the controllers could read his fuel gauge…
The weather tomorrow is forecast to be a mirror image of today. Should be another great airshow day. Until tomorrow…
After a morning of clouds and rain it looked like the first day of the Sun ‘n Fun 2019 Expo would be a wash out. But soon after midday the clouds began to break up and by late in the day the sun was in control.
Possibly the most exciting and certainly the loudest performance of any airshow is a military aircraft at low altitude. The US Air Force Viper Team did its best to make sure that the crowds were not disappointed. Seen here afterburner engaged this F16 sliced through the air with a sound that could only be described as deafening. I wonder how many “G’s” he was pulling?
Kevin Coleman, one of the youngest performers on the Air Show Circuit joined the Red Bull Air Race Circuit in 2016 in the Challenger Class. His flying career began at the age of 10 with both flying and aerobatic lessons. If this afternoon’s performance is any indication his name will become well known on the airshow circuit.
The Class of ’45 featured an F4U Corsair and the P51 Mustang. Each of these aircraft represented the pinnacle of aviation design and performance for its class. Though each served proudly in different branches of the military today they joined forces to put on one great performance. With the fast and precision maneuverability of today’s military aircraft it is always fascinating to watch how the pilot’s of earlier aircraft used their unique performance characteristics to perform their intended missions.
Not every performance need be so loud and fast that your ears ring and your neck hurts from swiveling so quickly to watch. Few better demonstrate this than veteran airshow performer Greg Koontz. In his Super D he proves that the laws of aerodynamics apply to all aircraft regardless of power. Want to combine a vacation with flying? Greg runs a “Bed and Breakfast” where you’ll get the best of both country hospitality and aerobatic training.
Have a conversation with any aviation buff about the P51 Mustang and its a sure thing that the names Crazy Horse and Lee Lauderback will come up. Lee and Crazy Horse have thrilled crowds on the show circuits around the country and his flight school, Stallion 51, is training the next generation of Mustang pilots. By the way, I’m convinced that the Tower Controllers have the best seats in the house for viewing the airshow.
There were several other performers in todays weather shortened program. I’ll be sure to highlight them over the upcoming days as time and space permit. Thanks for taking the time to enjoy this years opening day at Sun ‘n Fun with me. Until tomorrow…
You know that winter is finally on its way out with the start of airshow season. And what could be better after cold, snow and rain then to visit Lakeland, Florida for the annual Sun n’ Fun 2019 International Fly-In & Expo?
Featured performers at will include the Navy Blue Angels Demonstration Team, the AeroShell Team and the Saturday morning balloon launch just to name a few.
This year will feature two night shows including fireworks and a drone light show! From seasoned pro to young enthusiast, there is something for everyone at Sun ‘n Fun. I hope that you can join me in Lakeland. The show is Tuesday April 2 thru Sunday April 7. As always, I’ll have daily updates with photos and commentary.
Look forward to seeing you there.
Recently arrived from France this 2019 TBM 910 has only ferry time since new. The TBM provides the performance of a light jet with the flexibility and economy of a turbo prop. Cruise at 330ktas for 1000nm at FL310 in the worlds fastest single engine certified aircraft. The 2019 model year includes several new features to enhance comfort and safety.
Auto-Ice Protection System
New for 2019 is the Automatic In-flight Ice Protection System. A tail mounted sensor detects ice and provides automatic deployment of the aircraft ice protection systems. This acts as a backup in the event that the pilot fails to identify and take action in icing conditions.
Digital Heading Sensor
With the addition of a remote magnetometer the MidContinent MD302 now provides digital magnetic heading data. This independently battery powered instrument now becomes a full ADAHRS back up system.
Surface Watch
SurfaceWatch is a runway monitoring technology that provides indications and alerts designed to help prevent pilots from taking off or landing on the wrong runway, a runway that is too short, or a taxiway.
Visual Approach
With visual approach guidance, pilots can manage the descent to landing in visual flight conditions. Vertical guidance is provided based on a published glide path angle or a three-degree glideslope from the threshold of the runway.
New Interior
Newly designed seats, headrests and armrests provide additional comfort and styling. All seats are heated with individual overhead LED reading lights and air vents. The table stowage cover now provides storage for mobile phones and smaller tablets. Two high power USB charging ports are located just aft of the table.
115V Power
Located in the rear right seat panel storage area the new 115V power plug is accessible to the passengers. It can be used for charging laptops and other small electronic devices.
Fly with Peace of Mind
Fly with the confidence of knowing that your aircraft is covered by the best programs in the industry. Every new TBM delivers with extended manufacturer’s warranties covering major components for up to 5 years or 1000 flight hours. In addition, TBM Care provides coverage for scheduled maintenance events up to the 5th annual or 1000 hours.
N910ER is the latest addition to the long heritage of high performance turbo prop aircraft from Daher. Please contact me today to for more information and to arrange a showing at a time and location convenient to you.
(Groton, CT – September 27, 2019) Good day from Groton, Connecticut.
This is just a reminder that the next TBMOPA Safety Seminar will take place at Columbia Aircraft Sales in Groton, CT (KGON) on Friday, October 12th, 2019. The lineup of seminar speakers is both entertaining and educational.
We are pleased to announce that Jerry Chipman has accepted our invitation to attend. As you know, Jerry was an active TBM instructor for many years until his retirement in 2016. Columbia is honored to have him as our guest and Jerry is looking forward to seeing his many friends again. We hope that you can join us in welcoming him to Groton.
In addition to the Friday seminar, there are optional training events on Thursday, October 11th and Saturday, October 13th. Simcom will be available for in aircraft training on both days. Tom Goonan will be the Simcom instructor. Tom brings many years of experience as a pilot and instructor to the cockpit.
Survival Systems USA is offering their internationally recognized training program on Thursday, October 11th. The TBM offers its owners the ability to travel great distances. Many times, these trips take us over bodies of water. Survival Systems provides specific training that helps educate a pilot in coping with an encounter with water, no matter how large or small. A quote from their website sums it up best:
“Survival Systems USA courses cover everything from preparing for an aircraft accident or boating emergency, to underwater escape with and without an emergency breathing device, to open water survival…. This training is effective for swimmers & non-swimmers alike.”
TBM owners are a special group. Their desire to build a strong community to share knowledge and experiences is second to none in the aviation world. Regional gatherings such as the Groton event offer owners the chance to meet in a format that is more condensed then the national convention. These events are for many, easier to schedule into their busy calendars. We hope that you have the opportunity to attend and to share your experiences with the group.
For more information and to register please visit the events section of the TBMOPA website.
After a few Oshkosh’s its not uncommon to see the same aircraft in the spotlight from one year to the next. This happens for two reasons. First, the number of these aircraft is very small. Second, these are aircraft that have won recognition for the restoration and upkeep efforts of their owners. In an era of ADS-B, satphones and flying the magenta GPS course it is easy to lose sight of the path that got us here. This is why a visit to the classics area of Oshkosh is so important. The owners of these aircraft wear many hats. Balancing their real world career (which allows them to pursue their passion) they must also be flexible enough to deal with the unique challenges that restoring an aircraft that could be 80+ years old brings. While fully conversant in 21st Century aviation they speak the “ancient” language of aviation gone by. A conversation with even one of these classic masters is well worth a trip to Oshkosh.
In no particular order of preference here are a few of my favorites. The Fairchild 71 and its panel (above); TravelAir; Cessna C170; Beech Staggerwing; Aeronca; Howard; Spartan; Piper Vagabond and the Fairchild 24.
Choosing what to include is ofter harder than taking the photos. There were many other aircraft that well deserve to be seen. However, let that be my challenge to you. If I can whet your appetite enough to make the journey you will not regret it.
ser-en-dip-i-ty (noun) : the occurrence and development of events by chance or in a happy way
Several of us were awaiting the start of the airshow and the topic of our conversation was the lack of any real jet performances up to this point at Oshkosh. Today’s show started, as it does each day, with a performance of the national anthem. However, I noted that there was something missing. The anthem is usually performed during the parachuting of the flag from a jump plane. Today, no jumper and no flag. But as the last notes of the anthem were being sung from behind airshow center (where no one was looking) came the sound we had moments before been missing. To the astonishment and delight of the crowds the US Navy Blue Angels passed low, fast and directly overhead. Even the airshow announcer was not in on the surprise. After two passes they departed with their signature burst maneuver.
Later in the show as an Air Force KC-10 Tanker made several passes it was announced that the tanker had been positioned to refuel the team as it made its way to its next event. According to their schedule the Blue Angels are to perform at the Fargo Airshow in Fargo, ND next Sunday, July 28th. Serendipitous for the crowds at Oshkosh that their flight path allowed for the diversion.
The Running of the Bulls
I’ve been attending airshows for some time. I know that Red Bull Air Races are to aviation what the World Series is to baseball. But I never knew there was a Red Bull Air Force, that is, until today. Consisting of an Edge 540, an MBB 105 Helicopter and wing suit jumpers they put on quite a show. Here are a few photos from their performance today.
.
Myth Busted
There is a myth that pilots think themselves as being named to a higher calling than the rest of humanity (I know, that was bad. But cut me some slack, its late at night). I’m here to tell you that today that myth was busted. Just look at the friendly waves and happy postures of these two performers. The pilot was so eager to show this that he is standing up and leaning into the back seat of the biplane!!
The afternoon airshow ended with the first of what will be several Heritage Flights. The Heritage Flight was established by the Air Force to honor the men and women who have served and are serving in the US Air Force. Heritage Flights feature aircraft from several eras and are impressive to watch.
Wednesday at Oshkosh is the night airshow and fireworks. Unfortunately, as it did last year, the weather did not cooperate. Mother Nature put on her own show with thunder, lightning, heavy rain with gusty winds. I’m sure that there are many campers who are not happy tonight.
