HOUSTON, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- The 34th annual Wings Over Houston Airshow kicked off at the Ellington Airport in the U.S. state of Texas Saturday, with thrilling aerial performances and displays.
The two-day Commemorative Air Force (CAF) air show featured the U.S. Navy Blue Angels demonstration by the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet.
As the U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron and the second oldest formal flying aerobatic team in the world, it presented an exciting demonstration, sparking applause and cheers from spectators.
In addition to the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, other performers include the Phillips 66 Aerostars, That's All, Brother and the 138th Fighter Wing. CAF also brought famous battle reenactments with pyrotechnics stimulating a near real experience.
At the show, fans also have the chance to see some of the best civilian and military aircrafts as well as a large number of vintage and modern military aircraft.
One of the many historic planes on display this year was a C-47 aircraft which was part of a formation that dropped tens of thousands of U.S. paratroopers behind enemy lines in the hours before D-Day, June. 6, 1944.
"It's very nice to come out and see the patriotism for the country," said Emma Boutwell, a local realtor.
Mindy Mendez said it's her third year to attend the show. "We can learn different kind of stuff that regular planes cannot do," Mendez said. "It's something new. You rarely see so. It's very cool."
Collecting, restoring and flying vintage historical aircraft for more than half a century, the CAF has more than 13,000 members and a fleet of 165 airplanes distributed throughout the country to 76 CAF units for care and operation. It is dedicated to honoring U.S. military aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance. It is also committed to showcasing vintage World War II aircraft, along with the thrills of modern aviation.
