.
Just some of the acts that you are going to see at Airshow 2010
Born in the shadow of the jet age, the AD Skyraider became a favorite of American pilots during the Korean War and in Viet Nam. At the close of World War two, the U.S. Navy was looking for a high performance dive and torpedo bomber to replace the venerable Helldiver and Avenger. Production of the AD Skyraider, sometimes referred to as “Able Dog” began in December of 1946 in Southern California. This low wing monoplane with its massive Wright R-3350 radial engine, went through several modifications during its service, yet is always fondly remembered as a tough and dependable fighter plane. What made the Skyraider such a deadly aircraft in the shadow of the modern Jet was the tremendous amount of firepower that could be employed against enemy targets. Under each wing are seven hard points that could support a wide array of ordinance. The large wings made this Able Dog highly maneuverable at low speeds, along with the heavy armor in key locations to protect the pilot and key systems, the Skyraider could take a beating and successfully bring its pilot home.
There was a time seventy years ago or so, that seeing an airplane flying overhead would instill awe and wonder. After World War one, there were many young pilots who managed to buy surplus biplanes at a real discount, most likely a Curtiss JN-4 or commonly known as a “Jenny.” As strange as it seems today, these early acrobatic pilots would often thrill rural audience across the country and many small towns here in Texas. Back then it was common practice for a pilot to visit a rural area and drum up business to perform for audiences and maybe give a lucky passenger the ride of his or her life.
The Best Pyrotechnics ever will be brought to you by the Blastards and EOD from the Commemorative Air Force. This group puts on a spectator spectacular of explosives. You won't want to miss our tribute to Vietnam Veterans with the biggest Vietnam Reenactment ever as well as the A-10 Demo.
Mike "Spanky" Gallaway new to the Central Texas Airshow in 2009, performs in his modified Pitts S-1 T. You will see plenty of tumbles, snaps, and rolls as this bright red bi-plane is put through its paces. When Spanky isn't flying you can find him commentating for the Red Bull Air Race World Series.
