2008 Space and Air Show at Kennedy Space Center
KSC heavily promoted its 2nd Space and Air Show throughout the entire state of Florida. And it appears the marketing worked quite well. Between the perfect weather and the scheduling of the Blue Angels, KSC got what it wished for-huge attendance.
After the Saturday show, it was very common hearing of people waiting three hours in their vehicles to enter KSC and only to be told that the show is sold out. We were very fortunate as we had no difficulty entering or exiting the Space Center. KSC did an outstanding job in their mission impossible task of shuttling thousands of spectators in and out of the viewing area. The show viewing site is a ten minute bus ride from the visitor complex. You cannot walk to the site due to the distance and the obvious security issues at the Center, although the thousands of alligators who call KSC home would rather have you walk.
KSC holds a small air show compared to other military bases. But the Cape is by far one of the most beautiful settings you’ll ever go to for an air show. Some nice flying included the F/18F Super Hornet team making some very low passes just above the water. Made everyone wish they had their fishing poles as he made his presence known to anything in the water. Michael Goulian performed a great demo in his Castrol Extra 300. The 920th Rescue Wing from Patrick AFB simulated a water rescue with two HH-60’s and a Hercules C-130. We also got to see a simulated air re-fueling of the helicopters by the Hercules. The Starfighters from nearby St.Petersburg area gave us a few high speed passes with a single F-104. I can never tire of seeing the Starfighter as it’s one of my favorites, as is the F-16 Viper demonstration, when they and the F-4 Phantom perform their Air Force Heritage Flight. And the main draw of the show, the Blue Angels, looked great as they made some passes and maneuvers over many of Cape Canaveral’s building and sites. And as always, another great announcing job by Rob Reider.
I’m sure KSC will look at expanding the viewing site for next year’s show. I think all will be served well if they did. It’s much too beautiful a place for all not to enjoy. A big thank you to all KSC personnel for being accommodating and making us welcome.
Story and photos by Brian Walker