Friday, October 12, 2012

Wings Over Whiteman Airshow - Knob Noster, Missouri

We were so happy to see this airshow return to Whiteman Air force Base this past May after being 'on hold' for a number of years.  This weekend event is free and a great way to spend a day learning about aircraft, watching precision flying and meeting a lot of great folks in our military and civilian air corps.

Kids photo op in a mini Stealth

A few tips when attending an airshow - read the fliers to know what is allowed to bring with you.  There are security checks and if you are informed ahead of time it will save you a trip back to your vehicle!  For this show there was plenty of parking on site - but outside the fenced perimeter.  There were free trams to take you into the show area after you cleared security and got a wristband.  We recommend bringing folding (umbrella type) chairs, a hat, sunscreen and a camera.  Coolers were not allowed but you could bring water bottles if they were clear plastic.  There were plenty of areas of food and drink sales to keep you fed and hydrated while at the show.

Great view of the flights no matter where you sat
This was the first time they have allowed private aircraft to fly in (with prior approval and registration) and there was a big area of those planes to view.  We enjoyed walking around and into the many different types of aircraft at the show.  The pilots and owners are happy to answer questions and tell you about their crafts.  Some have donation jars to help with the cost of upkeep and fuel to get to these events.



There were other displays  from Veteran's groups, colleges, armed services, businesses and more.  Included in this event was a kids area with a climbing wall, bounce house, other inflatable climbing/sliding areas and face painting to keep the kids happy.  A car show was also on site so there was something for everyone to enjoy!


WWII field unit set up

Custom motorcycle to honor the Stealth program

The flying craft part of this airshow goes on continually for both days.  We had a schedule of the approximate order - but bear in mind that weather can change this.  It was very windy the day we attended and the parachute jump by the Golden Knights was postponed. 






Bleacher seating was available along the runways, but no shade.  Some open hangars were used for shade so having your own chair makes it easy to take a break from the sun. 







This is a free event - no admission or parking fees, but remember to bring some cash for snacks, drinks and donations.  Many different Air Force squads also sell merchandise for their groups - Tshirts, dog tags, patches and more.





What a great day and of course you get up close to the Stealth bombers as they are based at Whiteman.

Tiny Tim with one of the Stealth pilots

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