By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
The F-35A Lightning II demonstration team will highlight Laughlin’s Open House and STEAM expo March 9, 2024, officials announced today.
Due to a series of hurdles, it will be the first air show at Laughlin in six years.
The 2020 air show was canceled due to COVID concerns.
In the past, the one-day event has featured acts from across the military, cutting edge aircraft like the F-35 and historic planes like the P-51 Mustang, as well as Laughlin training aircraft like the T-6 Texan II, T-1 Jayhawk and T-38 Talon.
“We are extremely excited for what we have planned for the Del Rio community,” said Maj. Patrick Doyle, 2024 Fiesta of Flight director. “We are thrilled to show the region what Team XL does every day and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds when our nation is looking at a renewed call to service from its next generation.
In the past, the F-35 team has featured an 18-minute demonstration that, according to the team’s release: “will highlight some of the F-35A’s capabilities, to include its advanced flight controls, agility, and high-g maneuverability. The ground crew will also showcase the professionalism and precision of America’s Airmen through a choreographed launch routine, as well as provide opportunities for people around the world to meet and interact with members of the team and learn about the United States Air Force.”
It is considered by many to be the premiere fighter in the Air Force inventory and F-35 Joint Program Office spokesman Russ Goemaere told Breaking Defense that the plane costs more than $100 million per aircraft to produce.
However, the Open House will do more than show off the F-35 and will have various activities that will entertain families, including a car show, food vendors, merchandise booths and activities for children.
Fiesta of Flight will also feature a STEAM Expo, showcasing aspects of science, technology, art, engineering, and math in conjunction with the local Del Rio High School and CTE program.
“You can’t put a price tag on what this means to the community,” said Blanca Larson, Del Rio Chamber of Commerce executive director. “This brings people from across the region to Laughlin and Del Rio with the air show March 9, and the total eclipse events April 5 – 8 will showcase Del Rio in 2024.”
The rest of the event’s schedule will be released as different performances are solidified.
The writer can be reached at joelalangton@gmail.com .
