California Capital Airshow Welcomed Huge Crowds
SACRAMENTO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The 2016 California
Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento
County, in partnership with the City
of Rancho Cordova, opened the gates at Mather Airport this past
weekend with an increase of more than 20 percent in attendance over last
year. The Airshow welcomed the world-famous U.S.
Navy Blue Angels, U.S.
Army Golden Knights for the very first time, the Royal
Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornet Demo, U.S.
Air Force F-16 Viper, ‘FIFI’,
the iconic B-29 Superfortress and so much more.
After a full day of awe-inspiring performances, sadly, due to unforeseen
circumstances, the Blue Angels were unable to perform on Saturday. The
commanding officer and flight leader, Cmdr. Ryan Bernacchi, contracted a
foodborne ailment offsite and was under the medical supervision of the
team’s Flight Surgeon and could not fly. The Blue Angels decide whether
or not they perform per regulations, as safety is their number one
priority. Once the Airshow was notified that the team would be grounded
due to the Commander’s illness the public was informed immediately.
“We were thrilled to learn Sunday morning that Cmdr. Bernacchi was
feeling better and medically released to perform. Airshow leadership was
at the gate all day welcoming returning Saturday ticket holders as well
as Sunday attendees,” said Darcy Brewer, executive director of the
California Capital Airshow. “Fans were thrilled that ‘Boss’ was feeling
better and that the Show welcomed back thousands of Saturday ticket
holders. All were excited to return for a second day of Airshow fun.”
The Airshow acknowledges the unexpected parking and traffic delays on
Saturday, and worked quickly to remedy the problems for Sunday attendees
who experienced a smooth entry and exit. While Sunday weather reports
initially called for stormy conditions, weather was not a factor and
fans enjoyed the full line up of performers including the heart-stopping
Blue Angels demonstration.
“Putting on an Airshow is a massive undertaking and preparation takes
years. The event is almost completely run by dedicated volunteers that
work tirelessly to provide an amazing guest experience,” continued
Brewer. “Without events like these, our children and grandchildren would
never be able to see up-close examples of the ingenuity that makes our
country great or spend a weekend in the presence of heroes and legends.
That’s why we strive to produce this thrilling and meaningful community
event every year.”
Airshow proceeds fund scholarships to regional students interested in
pursuing education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering,
Mathematics, Aviation and Aerospace, charitable group donations and
educational youth programming throughout the year.
A special thank you goes to Sacramento County, City of Rancho Cordova,
Aerojet Rocketdyne, Sacramento Jet Center, Lasher Auto Group, Dr. Pepper
Snapple Group, Budweiser, Fox 40, iHeart Media and many more sponsors as
well as an army of volunteers for their support each year.
About California Capital Airshow
Established in 2004, the California Capital Airshow 501(c)(3) is an
exciting, family-friendly annual event designed to honor the Sacramento
region’s rich aviation heritage and veterans while using the power and
magic of flight to inspire young people. CCA gives back to the community
through scholarships, charitable group donations and exciting
educational youth programming throughout the year. For more information,
please visit www.californiacapitalairshow.com.
Contacts
California Capital Airshow
Karen Strong, 916-671-0334
Karen@strongpr.com
