Highlights from the 18th Annual California Capital Airshow
The 18th annual California Capital Airshow, held at Mather Airport, took Pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and aspiring aviators to cloud nine on July 13 and 14. The Airshow, a significant event in the region, witnessed a blend of American and Italian military prowess in the skies that dazzled spectators with aerial maneuvers and ground displays.
From the moment the gates opened, the air smelled of excitement. The action kicked off around 5:30 p.m. Over 1,000 dedicated volunteers conducted the two-day spectacle, turning the empty tarmac into a lively hub of aviation marvels. Darcy Brewer, executive director of the airshow, applauded the transformation, saying, “10 days ago, this ramp was nothing but empty concrete,” Brewer said. “Look at it now, it’s alive.”
One of the main attractions was the massive cargo plane Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, brought by crews from Travis Air Force Base. It drew crowds eager to explore the interior and learn more about its capabilities. For Travis Cratty, an aircraft commander for the C-5, the opportunity to connect with the public was a treasured experience. Citing his mission to Haiti and Hawaii, Cratty explained, “I wish more people knew (being a C-5 pilot) is not just a going-to-war capability, it’s humanitarian relief.”
Aviation fans Ansel Lim and Justin Kim, who came to the show from the East Bay, were impressed by the imposing presence of C-5. Unlike past shows, the flight deck and cockpit were open to the public. Visitors could also engage with the crew directly. Cratty noted that small groups of people were allowed into the cockpit every ten minutes, which led to a queue stretching the length of the aircraft.
A Memorable Conclusion with Spectacular Displays
The sky over Rancho Cordova was a canvas for Italy’s elite acrobatic team, Frecce Tricolori. Those nine aircraft painted the air with red, white, and green smoke trails, set to the stirring strains of Andrea Bocelli. Such an amazing display contrasted with the raw power of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, whose six F-16s flew just below the speed of sound, captivating the audience.
The response of the spectators was overwhelmingly positive as they cheered and gasped with every maneuver. The Morris family attending the event for the first time had an enriching experience. Erica Morris highlighted how her personal interactions with pilots left a lasting impression on her children as her son Ian is now inspired to become a pilot. She said, “For the kids, it was neat (to meet the pilots).”
The event came to an end with a breathtaking pyrotechnic finale that celebrated the partnership between California and Italy. Closing the day on a high note, the sky was lit up with fireworks, drone displays, and acrobatic planes. Attendees like Lauren Godshall appreciated the pilots’ efforts to engage with young fans as her daughter Markie expressed her joy in getting to know the aviators personally.
As the event continued through Sunday, July 14, visitors enjoyed another day of thrilling performances and interactive displays. General admission tickets were priced at $50 for adults, while children aged 15 and allowed free entry.
The California Capital Airshow is proof that the combination of dedication, community spirit, and a passion for aviation, can inspire the young generation to believe that the sky is indeed the limit.
