Bethpage Air Show dazzles Memorial Day crowd at Jones Beach
The Bethpage Air Show took to the skies at Jones Beach on Monday with nail-biting synchronized jet stunts and demonstrations like a propeller plane diving down at a seeming 90-degree angle.
The main attraction of the day, the US Air Force Thunderbirds, flew in dangerously-close arrowhead formation for coordinated flips and they crisscrossed each other’s paths as smoke streamed behind them.
Other attractions included the Army Golden Knights parachuting down as colorful smoke filled the sky and six WWII planes showcasing maneuvers used in that period.
It was the first time since the event launched in 2004 that it was held on Memorial Day, organizers said. The event was canceled over the weekend due to heavy rains.
The air show had cool temperatures and cloudy skies, but the high-flying jet performers still dazzled with stunts like in-air loops while music like Motley Crue’s “Kickstart My Heart” blasted on the ground.
“I’m tremendously grateful for all the partners, performers and staff who are pulling together to make Monday’s show happen,” New York State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said in a statement before the performance.
“We’re excited for the traditional summer season at Jones Beach, starting with the Bethpage Air Show.”
