The Thunderbirds and other aerialists are wowing the skies over our area this weekend for the Rochester International Airshow! It's likely you've caught a glimpse or heard the roar while you were out and about.
Thousands of spectators gathered at the Greater Rochester International Airport for the show on Saturday.
Airport Director Andy Moore says day one was a success.
"If you love airports, if you love aviation and airplanes, [Saturday] was an awesome day. We had great weather, great food, a bunch of food trucks here, an awesome demonstration from the Thunderbirds and the F-22 Raptor," Moore said.
The airshow is back after several years of a hiatus. This year's lineup includes the roaring Thunderbirds and numerous military and civilian aerobatic acts. There's also an aircraft to enjoy the fun up close and personal.
"The Thunderbirds are on a level on their own. They train year round for what they do, then you get the civilian acts that go up and do the turns in the air and the flips — they are expert aviators, they go to airshows all over the country," Moore said.
All adults and children agree, no matter their age, the airshow is an exhilarating experience.
"I came here as a teen with my dad and I wanted to share that experience with him as well. It's just important to be exposed to the things that are going on in the military, to see our history, where we've come from, how men and women have served in the armed forces," said attendee Dan Campbell, Spencerport.
A portion of the show's proceeds help local veterans see the airshow for free through Honor Flight Rochester. If you make it to closing day, make sure you bring hearing protectors.
The show continues Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 and kids under 12 are free.