Be Sure To Bring Earplugs To EAA AirVenture 2015, Because The Harrier Is Coming Back

It’s been said that EAA AirVenture has something to suit everybody’s interest in aviation, and when the airshow starts and the Marines shows up in the Harrier for an aerial demonstration everyone pays attention. However, the issue of ear protection is not a joke if you’re close to the flightline.

EAA has received word that the U.S. Marine Corps has confirmed its AV-8B Harrier jump jet will be returning to Oshkosh for AirVenture 2015 air show performances. The approved Level III aerial demonstration at AirVenture is one of just nine such public displays the jump jet will be making in the U.S. this year.

The Harrier has been a very popular item in the afternoon air shows at Oshkosh for many years. The exact dates of the performances will be finalized in the coming weeks. The specific Harrier flying at Wittman Regional Airport will be from either Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point, North Carolina, or Marine Corps Air Station at Yuma, Arizona.

The demonstration consists of an 8-10 minute display of the aircraft’s abilities, including a 90-degree climbing turn, a high-speed pass over the runway, and a vertical landing in front of the crowd. According to the Marine Corps, many of the maneuvers demonstrated at the air show represent those executed in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom as well as in operations conducted at sea aboard naval vessels.

With the capability to operate both in day and night, the Harrier is used in combat for engaging surface and air targets, escorting helicopters, and conducting deep air support.

When the date and time has been set for the Harrier flight demonstration, it’s worth it to adjust your schedule to see this unique aircraft in operation.

(Photo by DeKevin Thornton provided by EAA)

FMI: www.eaa.org