The Boeing Seafair Air Show is set to welcome back one of the most thrilling aerial performances as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels arrive in Seattle for 2025.
The iconic team of Navy and Marine Corps service members touched down at King County International Airport on Wednesday in seven F-18 Hornet jets, gearing up for an exciting weekend of festivities.
“It’s always the high point of summer,” expressed GySgt. Brandon Wishard, a flight engineer with the U.S. Navy C-130 Fat Albert, reflecting on his childhood memories of watching the show.
For Seattle-native Wishard, this year’s performance holds a special significance.
After watching the Blue Angels from the ground as a child, he is now returning for his second year, not just as a spectator but as part of the show itself.
“To actually come back and be part of the actual show and be part of the Seafair in this role is definitely a dream come true,” Wishard shared.
The Blue Angels are excited to showcase their aerial acrobatics, predicting a mesmerizing experience for the thousands of fans expected to line the shores of Lake Washington.
Maj. Sam Petko, a pilot on the U.S. Navy C-130 Fat Albert, noted the improved weather conditions this year compared to last, stating, “Now it’s bright and sunny so I’m pretty stoked.”
As the festivities ramp up, the Blue Angels will hold test runs on Thursday, July 31, with scheduled times between 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. – 4:40 p.m.
Their first official performance will take place on Friday, August 1, at 3:35 p.m., with additional ticketed shows continuing through Sunday, August 3, at the same time.
In a significant change from previous years, the I-90 bridge will remain open during all air show performances, allowing for easier access and smoother traffic flow.
Maj. Petko expressed his excitement about engaging with the audience, especially when young children express their dreams of becoming a Blue Angel or a pilot one day.
Such interactions remind him of his own childhood aspirations as he looked skyward in admiration.
The air show will kick off with a nine-minute performance featuring the Fat Albert, a U.S. Marine Corps Lockheed C-130J Super Hercules serving logistics for the Blue Angels.
Between performances, the Fat Albert is responsible for shuttling team members, equipment, and luggage across the nation.
Following this introductory act, the six Blue Angels jets will take to the skies, with flight commander Adam Bryan among the pilots soaring over Seattle for the first time.
“I have the honor, and I’m humbled to work alongside 160 of the absolute finest sailors and Marines in the United States Navy and Marine Corps,” said Cdr. Bryan.
The Blue Angels, who have been performing since their inception in 1946, have captivated over 500 million spectators during their storied history.
The organization aims to highlight the teamwork and professionalism of the Navy and Marine Corps while inspiring a culture of excellence and service through thrilling flight demonstrations and community engagement.
Information for this article was sourced from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and FOX 13 Seattle.
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