Weather threatens Defenders of Liberty Air Show
BARKSDALE AFB, LA (KSLA) - Thousands of people will be flocking to the Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City this weekend to take in some of the best aerobatic performances and aircraft displays in the world, but Mother Nature may not cooperate.
A sneak peek of the event was offered to media on Thursday at the Shreveport Downtown Airport, where a few lucky participants were able to take a ride of a lifetime while others were given an unforgettable show.
Shreveport native, Brian Smith is a Desert Storm Veteran who served for the Marines. Smith was given a once in lifetime opportunity to take a flight with World Champion aerobatic Pilot Rob Holland in a Hero Flight. Holland says the freedom beneath the wings is all thanks to the men and women who fight for it.
"They give me the freedom to do what I do every weekend. So, to give back a little back and put smile on their face, that's the best part of the show for me," said Holland.
One of the best aerobatic pilots in the world happens to be an ArkLaTex man, who also joined in giving a lucky few a dazzling display of his expert skills. Coushatta native, Kevin Coleman, is the youngest pilot in the Red Bull Air Race, where he recently placed 2nd. With competitions around the world and air shows a staple of his schedule, Coleman says it feels good to be home, participating in the Barksdale Air Show this weekend.
The Thunderbirds returned to the skies of Shreveport-Bossier Thursday afternoon. One of the pilots, Captain Nick Elberling gives us a preview of what to expect this year.
"Starting with a diamond, if the weather allows it, what they'll see is all four planes rolling down the runway with only three feet wing tip separation between us directly into a loop in formation," he said.
He says ideally they like to fly in sunny conditions like Thursday afternoon had to offer, and he's being positive about the air show regardless of the weather.
"Obviously, we love the blue skies and clear visibility for all of our flying, but the good thing is even if the weather lowers, we are able to fly in the rain. We are able to fly with a lower ceiling, and we're able to change the type of show, and what maneuvers we're doing," said Eberling.
The people that make the call for what type of show to have are at the Weather Squadron at Barksdale. They're responsible for not only forecasting for the air show, but also multiple planes that fly all over the world. They will be monitoring the forecast closely over the next 24 hours for specific threats.
"We want to make sure we capture any lightning threats in the area," said Captain Mike Draper.
They're biggest concern is the safety of the visitors and the pilots from any potential severe weather. The organizers of the show, and the pilots say they have back up plans for any type of weather they may come this way.
The air show takes flight Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1. Gates open at 9 a.m. with performances beginning at 11 a.m. Admission is free.
As far as parking for the air show goes, space at Mike Wood Park in South Bossier on Dennis St., which is right next to the base, will be limited this weekend, thanks to potential rainfall.
This year, the city is limiting parking to the 163 paved spaces inside the park.
Visitors will not be allowed to park on the grass or any other area not specifically designated for vehicle parking.
The following hand carried items are permitted:
- Personal carts or wheelchairs for physically challenged visitors
- Diaper bags for guests with small children
- Small women's purses
- Strollers for small children
- Official service dogs
- Cameras or video recorders; must be small enough to carry by hand
- Binoculars
The following items are recommended:
- Water bottles; free water-refill stations will be available
- Sunscreen
- Hearing protection
- Sunglasses
- Sunhats/baseball caps
The following items are PROHIBITED:
- Coolers
- Outside alcohol
- Backpacks
- Duffle bags
- Large purses
- Camelbacks
- Umbrellas
- Paint
- Balloons
- Large camera bags
- Illegal drugs
- Weapons (brass knuckles, mace, pepper spray, box cutters, numchucks, firearms, knives)
- Military uniforms worn by non-military members
- Bicycles
- Scooters
- Skates
- Skateboards
- Go-carts
- Wagons
- RV's or campers
All pets are prohibited from the Defenders of Liberty Air Show grounds. Service animals assisting physically challenged guests will be authorized. At no time will pets be left unattended outside the area or in vehicles.
For more information about the event, click here.
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