(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The 2024 Pikes Peak Airshow continues on Sunday as the sky will be filled with planes new and old. Hundreds of people went to the air show to watch the Blue Angels fly around Colorado Springs and perform.
You might have seen them practicing throughout the week and you might have even heard the roar from their massive engines.
“We’re here to come watch the planes fly, and we’re very excited,” said Jim Vickers.
All eyes are on the skies this weekend as the airshow returns to Southern Colorado, bringing not only the Blue Angels but other exciting aerial acts as well. Many are especially excited to see the F-22. “The F-22, we can’t wait to see the F-22,” said David Gilfillan. “It’s just the look. It’s Air Force, and the maneuvers it does, it’s just awesome.”
Hundreds of people arrived at the Colorado Springs Airport to go to the event and see what kinds of tricks the planes can do. “This is actually the first time we’ve been to this air show. We’re having a great time,” said Gilfillan.
Blue and yellow FA-18 Super Hornets will streak the skies, flying in precision patterns with speeds up to nearly 700 miles per hour and as close as 18 inches apart. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels’ demonstration is similar to the Air Force Thunderbirds flight demonstration team.
Other events include a demonstration from the U.S. Air Force parachute team called Wings of Blue and a demonstration of C-130 Maffs, large cargo planes used to help fight wildfires. The event also features historic aircraft, like the P-38 Lightning used mostly during World War II.
“What we’re doing here is we’re at the Pikes Peak Airshow in Colorado Springs and getting ready to see a fantastic display of aircraft and talent,” said Toney Lyles.
In 2021, the Blue Angels made their first transition to a new aircraft in 35 years. The Blue Angels are flying the F-18 Super Hornet, which is 25% larger than its predecessor which was retired in the fall of 2020.
Gates open at 8:30 Sunday morning, tickets are sold out, but you might catch them soaring through the sky.
