Wings Over Houston Celebrates 40th Anniversary with A Spectacular Airshow Featuring the Blue Angels
Houston, TX, September 18, 2024— The iconic CAF Wings Over Houston Airshow, one of the most extensive flight history and innovation showcases, will celebrate its 40th anniversary at Ellington Airport on October 26-27, 2024. This year’s event will feature a dazzling lineup of aerial performances, headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, and an array of exciting ground exhibits.
Founded in 1984 as a tribute to wartime aviation, CAF Wings Over Houston has grown into a premier annual celebration that connects aviation history with modern technology. In addition to the Blue Angels’ high-flying acrobatics, this year’s event will include an impressive exhibition of vintage military aircraft, opportunities to meet pilots and decorated veterans, and a search-and-rescue demonstration by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Honoring Aviation History Operations Manager Natasha Avey emphasized Houston’s rich aviation heritage, deeply rooted in Ellington Airport. Initially opened in 1917 as Ellington Field, the airport was a key training site during World War I and II. Avey noted, "We aim to keep history alive, honoring the past while inspiring the future of aviation."
Blue Angels to Headline The legendary U.S. Navy Blue Angels will headline the show, featuring six elite pilots from the Navy and Marines, including the first female fighter jet pilot, Lt. Cmdr. Amanda Lee. The Blue Angels’ performance will include breathtaking aerial acrobatics and reenactments of historic battles, demonstrating the precision and skill that became life-saving during wartime dogfights.
Featured Performances and Displays Wings Over Houston will feature various aerial acts, including: • Tora! Tora! Tora!: An aerial reenactment of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor featuring pyrotechnics and precision flying. • Air Force Heritage Flight: A collaboration of civilian pilots flying vintage warbirds alongside modern fighter jets. • 122nd Fighter Squadron (Bayou Militia): F-15C fighter jets in action, showcasing their capabilities. • Viper Demo Team: A display of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, a key aircraft in Vietnam-era combat, still in service today. • U.S. Coast Guard: A live search and rescue demonstration.
Vintage Aircraft Exhibit
Attendees can explore the Warbird Exhibit, which will showcase iconic World War II, Korean, and Vietnam-era aircraft, such as:
- A-1D Skyraider
- F4U Corsair
- B-25 Mitchell
Legends and Heroes Tent Guests will have the chance to meet aviation and military legends at the Legends and Heroes Tent, where veterans, including Ralph Coleman and Col. Joe McPhail, will share their stories and sign memorabilia.
About Wings Over Houston Since its inception, CAF Wings Over Houston has honored the service and sacrifice of U.S. military aviators while offering a thrilling experience for all ages. As one of the largest airshows in the U.S., the event is dedicated to preserving and promoting aviation history and inspiring the next generation of aviators.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://wingsoverhouston.com.
