International Air Show

Over the weekend, we went to the International Air Show for the first time. It took place on part of the runway at the Rochester International Airport. I didn't really know what to expect, except that there would be different aircraft to look at and the Navy Blue Angles would do tricks in the sky. Andrew really wanted to go, so we went on a fun date on a very hot sunny day (I have a bad sunburn to show for it). It was a lot of fun as well as really interesting. We got close up look at a variety of aircraft and learned about the people and vehicles who take to the skies and a little bit of history. We snapped a ton of photos. It was hard not to with so many cool things happening overhead.

My husband appropriately wore his aviators. I think he would make one good-lookin' pilot. 

When we arrived, aircraft was lined up all over the place. We didn't know where to go first. 

This enormous C5 caught my attention. I've never seen a plane this big in my entire life. The nose and tail were opened up so people could walk through and see the inside. 

The wings were so large, they offered quite a bit of shade. People planted their chairs underneath and took a break from the scorching sun. Including us. Where's Waldo? 

Looking at a plane this size, and knowing it's capable of flying up in the air, while carrying a ton of weight, boggles my mind. I can't let myself think about aerodynamics for too long because my brain can't comprehend it. I'm not going to pretend I know the names of all the planes we saw or what they're capable of. I do know that it was very cool. And flying is pretty awesome.

We saw helicopters.

Top Gun looking jets.

Small planes.

And historic planes.

There were people parachuting and doing amazing formations in the sky.

 
And planes doing tricks.

There were even a couple of Nascar cars (my nephew Elijah will appreciate this).

Later in the afternoon it was time for the much anticipated Blue Angels to take to the sky for the main event! I got a photo with one of the pilots before the show.

All 6 lined up, ready for take off.

What these planes and their pilots are able to do is absolutely incredible. The precision and technique is sick. At times their wings were only 8 feet apart, flying through the air in unison. Faster than the speed of sound. By the time we could hear them overhead, they had already flown by. I'll let these photos speak for themselves. Very impressive and very cool to watch. And some good photography by my husband.

If you ever have the chance to see the show, I would recommend it. Especially if you're interested in aircraft or have kids that would love this kind of thing. There were a lot of military personnel from all branches. Local veterans who have served were recognized. It definitely reminded me how many people are out there on a daily basis, wearing the uniforms and doing extremely difficult jobs, so that we can continue to live and enjoy the freedoms we know and love. Freedom isn't free. I am personally thankful for the men and women who selflessly sacrifice their time and their lives to preserve and protect. "Thank you" simply is not enough.