DENVER — The Rocky Mountain Airshow, held Aug. 16-18 at Rocky Mountain Metro Airport (BJC), will debut live on board aircraft HD video coverage that will be displayed o giant HD LED Screens. Spectators will see the aerobatics, performer interviews and get the feeling of being up with or inside the aircraft all weekend long. Another first for the airshow, and one that will create airshow history, is the debut of the first civilian airshow sanctioned by the FAA to have a high power sport rocket launch, according to organizers.
The rocket launch will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17, at noon. Interns at United Launch Alliance (ULA) in Denver built the nearly 17-foot-tall Stars ‘N’ Stripes – one of the largest rockets to launch in the state of Colorado. The sport rocket will accelerate from 0-300 miles per hour in 5 seconds and reach an altitude of 4,700 feet above ground.
Another first this year is the appearance of FIFI, the world’s only flying World War II B-29 Superfortress. FIFI has proven to be one of the biggest attendance draws to airshows across the country and will be making its only appearance in the Denver area at the Rocky Mountain Airshow.
This year, the Rocky Mountain Airshow is proud will celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Colorado National Guard aviation. With a focus on warbirds, the finale of the show each day is a 25 warbird parade finale.
“We will be bringing some of the most sought after aerobatic performers to Denver this year,” stated Scott McMillan, Airshow Director. “Some of our performers at this time include FIFI, Matt Younkin, Greg Shelton and Ashley Battles (pictured above), Bob Carlton, Trojan Phlyers Demo Team, Matt Tanner, Don Nelson, Red Stars, Rocky Mountain Renegades and the Warbird Parade finale.”
Colorado Sport Aviation Inc. continues the tradition of presenting scholarships and giving back to the community by contributing almost $100,000 in funds in 2012. Applications are now being accepted for the 2013 Berkman/Langen Flight Training and A&P Mechanics Scholarships. Information is available on the event website.