Memphis Airshow hosts night performance

MEMPHIS — Lights, pyrotechnics, smoke and fireworks will be featured in the premier of the Memphis AirShow night performance presented by FedEx Express later this month.

Gates open at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27, at the Millington Regional Jetport (NQA). The Tale Draggers RC Club will kick off the entertainment with giant remote control aircraft demonstrations followed by the aerial night show at 6:15 p.m.

Featured performers include:

• The Shockwave Jet Truck, the Guiness Book world record holder for the fastest jet truck in the world;
• The Raiders, which demonstrate both formation and solo aerobatic flights;
• Manfred Radius, a glider show in a fully aerobatic sailplane;
• Matt Younkin, who flies a twin-engine Beech 18 aircraft;
• Gene Soucy and Teresa Stokes, who offer a wingwalking performance;
• John Klatt offers  blend of aerial precision, power and performance;
• Mike Wiskus, one of the industry’s top-rated aerobatic flyers, will perform with the Lucas Oil parachute team;
• The MidSouth’s own Skip Stewart; and,
• Julie Clark, who will fly the Smokin’ Mentor T-34.

In addition to the aerial displays, the Memphis Airshow will include static aircraft featuring Spooky, a DC-3 attack plane; carnival rides; and, a child-friendly play area. Gates will close at 10 p.m.

Organized and supported by an all-volunteer team, the Memphis Airshow aims to share a passion for aviation and give back to the community. The 2011 Memphis Airshow raised more than $400,000 for three local charities. This year, the show has expanded its reach to 18 local charities from the local Memphis and Millington area.

Tickets for the night show on Sept. 27 are $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 5 to 12; children 4 and under have free admission. General admission and premium seating tickets for this and the September 28 and 29 day shows are available online.

Parking at the show is free. Please note that for security reasons, backpacks, coolers, large bags, and pets (service dogs are welcome) will not be permitted into the show.