Joins Lineup Of Air Show Heavy Hitters For 'Shutik Isht Ia'

The Cavanaugh Flight Museum and the MiG17 have been added to the lineup for the "Take to the Skies" AirFest being held at Durant Regional Airport – Eaker Field in Durant, OK, and the Choctaw Casino & Resort has been named as a major sponsor for the event.

Randy Ball returns with his MiG17 Jet bringing the huge action of high speed jet aerobatics and the noise of the afterburner, a huge hit with the crowd. New to the AirFest this year is Todd McCutchan with his T34 warbird. The Cavanaugh Flight Museum out of Addison, Texas will bring a variety of historic aircraft and make rides available to the public, and Chet Kuhn, a former National Aerobatic Champion will provide more smoke and thrills with his Wolf Pitts.

The stars of the AirFest are the Trojan Phlyers Demo Team with their formation aerobatics, piloted by highly decorated combat veteran pilots performing exciting precision close formation aerobatic routines. Jan Collmer, co founder of the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas and a veteran Navy fighter pilot, will fly his Extra 300L; Kate Kyer, also a Captain for UPS, brings the female touch to the show which also includes the Flight of the Phoenix Museum T6 formation team.

“Shutik Isht Ia” is the Choctaw translation for “Take to the Skies.” Debby Standefer, President of the Take to the Skies AirFest, said “we are very exited to be working with and promoting the City of Durant and their beautiful airport as well as the unique opportunity to feature cultural information and education of the Choctaw Nation.”  Bringing the first Air Show of the season to Oklahoma and North Texas, this is not just an event; it is an experience that will affect all of the senses with something to offer every age.  “We are proud to honor our military during our show”.  While the festival will commemorate those who have served and are serving in our military services throughout, Opening Ceremonies Saturday afternoon at the start of the air show will be action packed including Choctaw dancers and singers, honor guards, fly-bys, skydivers and more! 

The airport boasts a beautiful new terminal and was named after General Ira Eaker, an aviation pioneer and war hero. Durant is home to the headquarters of the Choctaw Nation.

The AirFest will be held April 27th. Before and after the air show, helicopters, airplanes, warbirds, powered parachutes, skydivers, radio control aircraft and more will be featured in static displays and demonstrations.

FMI: www.taketotheskiesairfest.com