The Blue Angels take to the skies over Oceana Naval Air Station, during a practice run for the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show. (L. Todd Spencer, The Virginian-Pilot/TNS)
(Tribune News Service) — Aviation enthusiasts looking for high-flying thrills can experience the Oceana Air Show Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 17-18, as military aerial performers take to the Virginia Beach sky.
Following a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, Naval Air Station Oceana will host a “Back to the Beach” air show Saturday and Sunday. Gates will open at 8 a.m. each day, with aerobatic performances scheduled throughout the weekend. General admission is free.
Visitors can witness flight demonstrations from the Navy’s acclaimed Blue Angels, who have not visited Oceana since 2018, each day at 3 p.m. The Navy’s F-35C Lightning II team and Air Force’s F-16 Viper team will also showcase advanced sky-bound training.
When attendees’ eyes are not turned to the sky, they can enjoy food and retail vendors.
“The NAS Oceana Air Show is a terrific way for us to give back to the community by showcasing the best naval aviation has to offer,” said NAS Oceana Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Holmes. “It’s a way for us to share with our neighbors how their Navy is deployed around the world, around the clock, and why a strong Navy is vital to protecting the American way of life.”
The air show is expected to draw an estimated 300,000 visitors to the military base. Those interested in attending can check the Oceana Air Show website for a schedule of performances or monitor the event’s Facebook page.
As the region prepares, the city of Virginia Beach issued a statement alerting residents of potential disruptions to local traffic from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
caitlyn.burchett@virginiamedia.com
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