Twin Falls Air Show

This year was meant to be the year for the air show at HAFB. Unfortunately the Thunderbirds had a scheduling conflict, and the show was cancelled. Being extremely disappointed, we began a search for other air shows that were nearby. We found Twin Falls was to have a show in July with the Blue Angels, and we made plans. Earlier this week, we checked up on the show, and found that for "security" reasons, the airport would not allow umbrellas, more than 1 water bottle per person, and NO coolers; and that to enter was $20 per person! As we are capitalists, that feel full capitalism should be in effect, we made the decision to find the closest park and watch the show there. No fees would have to be paid, we could have our umbrella, as much water as needed, and all the food we could pig out on.

Our adventure began early, with us leaving at 6 am. The drive to Twin Falls was nice as the traffic was sparse and had no other Utahns on the road. We arrived around 9 am and began to look for a spot to park and watch. The road next to the airport was closed to parking, one more socialistic "perk". We headed further south to the next road, and found a sign that directed us to the Lucky 7 ranch. Here was G Mack. He made his land available to the public for a fee of $5 a car and you could park anywhere, stay as long as you want, and provided water, popsicles and Johnny Cash. It was a blast at the Lucky 7; we had the perfect view of the airfield, had almost every plane fly over us, with a buzz from the F-16, and 3 from the Blue Angels (with the last buzz being all six jets!). We also got to meet "Old Lucky", G Mack's mustang. He was beautiful, and skittish about my umbrella, but curious to no end.

Most of the air show was down time, as Twin Falls was poor at the scheduling. However, the show that each pilot provided (from the jets) were amazing. I've never seen a Mig sordie performed so well, and the F-16 had a blast coming out to see our large gathering at the Lucky 7. We also had the perfect horizon view to watch where all the jets headed to prepare for each manuever. And being buzzed by the Falcon and Hornets was the ultimate experience. Most air shows don't provide this heart-pumping phenomenon. The only disappointment, we wish we had a flag to wave to the pilots. We'll definitely remember next time.