Ocean City Airshow – Friday Practice

Ocean City Airshow – Friday Practice
By Nicole Peirson

(Aug 14, 2020) … It was a day that airshow fans all across Delmarva had been waiting for….the start of the OC Airshow on Friday with the practice demo flights taking place.  The day started out dreary with heavy rain and thunderstorms in the area, and as the morning progressed it looked as though practice day may be a washout.  By 12 PM, the rain had stopped and the clouds began to clear, revealing a beautiful blue sky and cool temps….a perfect beach day.  

     By 1pm, the familiar sound of aerobatic aircraft could be heard up and down the beach, as Mike Wiskus soared and looped high above the ocean in his bright orange Lucas Oil Pitts biplane, leaving a trail of white smoke that could be seen for miles.  The show had started!

     What followed was nothing short of spectacular.  2020 had paid off in a big way for those who had held their breath hoping that this show would still go on despite the pandemic.  The F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor thundered over the beach and boardwalk at full afterburner, at some points during their demonstrations going over 700mph.  At high speeds, the jets were shrouded in vapor clouds, thanks to the leftover humidity from the morning’s storms, creating an even more awe-inspiring experience.   Spectators were treated to over an hour of performances, highlighting some of America’s mighty military air power, and the stunning capabilities of today’s advanced fighter jets.  The Thunderbirds capped off the afternoon with an exciting display of precision maneuvers in their F-16 Fighting Falcons, showcasing the pride and professionalism of the U.S. Air Force.  

     Every year, airshows across America not only showcase America’s military might, but inspire future generations of aviators and service members to follow their dreams.  Despite our “new normal” of living with a global pandemic, families were able to forget all about everything for a day, and safely enjoy a beautiful beach day listening to the sound of freedom overhead.