JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Joint Base Charleston is scheduled to host a free Air & Space Expo, April 28, 2018 on the Air Base.
Gates open at 8:30 a.m. Parking will also be available to the public at no cost.
“We are very excited for this year’s air show,” said Col. Jimmy Canlas, 437th Airlift Wing commander. “We hope folks have a safe, fun and memorable experience. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the United States Air Force and our sister services to the Lowcountry.”
The air expo will feature a performance by the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, along with other military and private demonstration teams such as an F-16 Heritage Flight, MiG-17, Prowlers of the Pacific, Warrior Flight Team, Douglas C-47 Skytrain and Bill Stein.
“This is the first time in seven years our community is going to get to experience what makes air power so special,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Brennan, 628th Mission Support Squadron deputy commander. “Come early, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy. It's going to be awesome!”
On the ground, there will be various static displays, a live music performance by Charleston-based cover band 17 SOUTH and concessions will be available for purchase.
The air expo will also offer unique opportunities to learn about developments and technology in the area of space.
“On the ground, the planning team is securing assets that will showcase different space capabilities performed by the Air Force like space launch, satellite control and monitoring, and nuclear deterrence, said Brennan.
Additionally, attendees can expect to see various other exhibits and demos that highlight science, technology, engineering and math.
Allowed items:
Strollers or wagons for toddlers, diaper bags, lawn chairs, small purses, wheelchairs/medical equipment, personal umbrellas, cameras, video recorders, blankets and binoculars (must be able to demonstrate that items are operable).
Prohibited items:
Weapons of any kind (NO CONCEALED WEAPONS) toys resembling firearms, fireworks, spray paint/silly string, glass containers, alcohol, illegal drugs, bicycles, skateboards, heelies, roller skates, rollerblades, coolers, rucksacks or backpacks, large purses, animals or pets and hard sided water bottles such as canteens, thermoses. Additionally, drones are not authorized.
Recommended Items:
Comfortable shoes, ear plugs/hearing protection, sunscreen, cameras, plastic water bottles, and pens for autographs.
Safety Reminders:
◾For the safety of all visitors and aircraft, there is NO smoking on the flightline/Expo Area
◾DO NOT cross the crowd fencing and ropes, as this may cause the air show to be stopped
◾ DO NOT touch or climb on any aircraft unless invited to do so by the aircrew
◾Remember trash can be sucked into aircraft engines, damaging the aircraft and endangering the lives of the pilots and aircrew. Please keep the flightline/Expo Area litter free by using trash receptacles.
◾ Watch for tent ropes, aircraft tie-down chains and other tripping hazards
◾Observe all signs such as "NO SMOKING", "DO NOT ENTER" and "DO NOT TOUCH"
Friday Rehearsal!
All ID card holders and their family members are invited to attend the rehearsal on Friday, April 27, 2018! The ramp will open at 8:30 a.m. and aerial and ground demonstrations will run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This is a great chance for base personnel and their families to preview the Air Expo!
Family Fest 2018
Directly after rehearsal on April 27, ID card holders and their dependents are invited to stay for Family Fest! This exciting pre-Air and Space Expo event will be filled with fun, free food and live entertainment for the entire family. Meet and greet the brave pilots of the Thunderbird’s Aerial Demonstration Team while the youth burn up some energy in the Kids Zone. Be sure to arrive with sunscreen, umbrellas and chairs, and be ready for a great time. This event will be held at Nose Dock 1 on the Air Base at 3 p.m.
“The hangar party is a free event to socialize with the performers and say thanks to the men and women of JB Charleston for their dedicated work,” said Brennan.
For directions, a full line-up of confirmed acts and additional information, visit http://www.jbcharleston.jb.mil/Home/Joint-Base-Charleston-2018-Air-and-Space-Expo/.