HOUSTON – Wings Over Houston, the city’s annual air show, happens this weekend.
Each year, the aerial spectacle crowds hoping to witness some high-flying action and get an up-close look at some iconic aircraft.
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Here’s ten things you need to know about the event.
1. Where is it?
It’s taking place at Ellington Airport, 11602 Aerospace Ave, Houston, TX 77034.
2. How much are tickets?
General admission tickets are $40 at the gate and $32.50 if you buy online. Various packages are also available. More info
3. When is it?
The airshow takes place this Saturday and Sunday, 10/21-10/22. Gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. PLEASE NOTE: there is no admittance to the show after 3 p.m.
4. What do I need to know about parking?
Parking is included in the ticket price however there is limited on-site parking. The show recommends parking at one of their off-site locations and taking advantage of their free shuttles.
Locations are:
- Bay Area Park and Ride: 801 Bay Area Blvd. (at Feather Craft)
- Fuqua Park and Ride: 11755 Sabo Road I-45. (at Sagetree)
- Eldorado Park and Ride 203 W. Eldorado Blvd (west of I-45 South, near Sam’s Club)
5. What performances will I see?
Performers at this year’s show include the USAF Thunderbirds, a Vietnam War Reenactment, a US Navy F-18 Super Hornet, the 138th Fighter Wing, a USAF A-10, the US Coast Guard, and a Shockwave Jet Truck among other performances. More info
6. How many aircraft will be on display?
Approximately four dozen unique aircrafts will be on display throughout the show. A full list can be found here.
7. Can I meet the pilots?
Absolutely! Many of the performing pilots make themselves available prior to their showtime. In addition, many of the crews of each static display are by their aircraft ready and waiting to meet and talk with visitors.
8. What should I bring?
The show recommends:
- Hearing protection
- Lawn chairs and/or blankets as seating is not provided
- Sun protection (hats, umbrellas, sun glasses, sunscreen, etc.)
- Camera
- Cash / credit card for food vendors. You may bring your own food and drink however coolers, alcohol and glass containers are not allowed
9. Where do the planes come from?
Many of the static displays are privately owned aircraft which fly in from all across the country. Be sure to ask the crews the history of the craft and where it calls home!
10. What is the history of Wings Over Houston?
Wings Over Houston was started by the Commemorative Air Force more than 30 years ago. The group began with a single plan in 1957 – a P-51 Mustang.
“What started as a hobby became an urgent mission to preserve history,” says their website.
The CAF is now based in Dallas and has been collecting aircraft for 60 years. Its membership numbers approximately 13,000 with a fleet of nearly 170 aircraft representing 60 different types including planes from foreign countries.
