The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Grand Bahama Air Show, which returns to the island after more than 70 years this weekend, is expected to thrill spectators as some of the world’s best aviators take to the skies with daring aerobatic stunts and low-flying maneouvres at Taino Beach.

Show time is at 2pm on Saturday but the aviators will perform a fly-in over Taino Beach for the opening of Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival at 6pm tomorrow.

During the opening, organisers will showcase four airplanes as parachute jumpers conduct a special touch down on Taino Beach and then walk the parade with the Bahamas flag, during live singing of the Bahamas National Anthem.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, in conjunction with its partnership with Sun ’n Fun, organisers of the second largest aviation show in the world, are putting on the Grand Bahama Air Show.

John Walsh, Air Boss, Air Show producer and Advisor, said that aviation enthusiasts and guests can expect to be dazzled during the two-hour show.

“The aerobatic show will be exhilarating from start to finish,” Mr Walsh said.

“There will be lots of smoke from low-flying aircraft conducting high-speed maneouvres ranging from simple to complex routines and featuring solo acts to precision-formed group performances.”

Captain Paul Schutten, one of several participating performers, will be flying a Super T-6 aircraft.

“Expect to experience ten minutes of adrenalin-pumping activities from my colourful Super T-6 aircraft,” he said.

“Everything you can imagine, from low flying, travelling straight up and straight down and lots of tumbles from upside down to downside up will be performed.”

Tourism officials said that plans are also underway to include a special appearance from one of the Bahamas’ leading amphibious aircraft partners.

Youngsters aged between eight and 17 interested in a career in aviation will also have an opportunity to meet with pilots and other industry professionals during a special seminar tomorrow from 9am to 2pm at the domestic terminal at the Grand Bahama International Airport.