Cochran Airshow Roars Through Coachella Valley
Fast-moving fighter jets and massive cargo aircraft will be among the attractions wowing spectators today at the seventh annual Jacqueline Cochran Air Show in Thermal.
“The air show features some of the most breathtaking displays of airborne talents,” said Riverside County Supervisor John Benoit, who is slated to introduce the free event. “I have enjoyed this show for years and encourage all county residents to take their families to see this fascinating annual attraction.”
The show begins at 9:45 a.m. with a demonstration and flag-raising by the Silver Wings Wing Walking Team, after which a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III airlifter is scheduled to circle the airport and land.
There will be aerobatics and formation flying exhibitions throughout the day, according to the county.
Jon Melby, piloting his extra-highpowered Pitts biplane, will take to the air around 10:45 a.m., and at noon, the 22-member Golden Stars Skydiving Team is slated to parachute onto the air field. World War II-era fighter aircraft demos featuring a P-51 Mustang and British Supermarine Spitfire are also planned.
A U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthog display is scheduled at 2:10 p.m., followed by a head-turning performance featuring the Air Force’s F-16 Viper West Demonstration Team.
According to the county, there will be a kids’ play zone, food, a variety of vendor booths and numerous parked aircraft on display.
More than 35,000 people attended last year’s show.
