Putting On An Airshow Is A Challenging Task, But A Simpler Air Event May Be The Way To Go

Producing an airshow is a complicated and expensive challenge. We all love them, and it’s a good way to show off the airport. However, if an airshow is not the way to go it might be worthwhile to consider a simpler air event. Such is the case in Watsonville, California.

A story from the Santa Cruz Sentinel about the Watsonville Fly-in and Airshow points out the difficulties of producing a complex event. The Watsonville Fly-in and Airshow has been going on for 50 years. But now the organization that produces the show has decided to call it quits and turn the operation over to the city.

In the story, it’s reported that the airshow board president, Hank Wempe, said that it’s a combination of low corporate sponsorship and a declining attendance that brought the issue to a head. Airshows are expensive to produce, require a lot of manpower, and need the participation of the entire community.

The story quoted Wempe as saying "What we need is movers and shakers and we didn't have them on our board.” The issue he addresses is not uncommon. Airshows are hard work and it takes a lot of dedication to get the job done. Wempe also addressed the issue of the overall declining economy.

After turning the production of the event over to the city, another approach will be used to continue the event, but without aerobatics or airshow performances.

Maria Esther Rodriguez, Watsonville's assistant director of public works and utilities, said the city will now produce a one day event, and there will be no entrance fee. It appears they will be holding a Young Eagles event and many food vendors will be present. They will also feature a "kid’s zone" and a Friday night movie.  She said, "I would categorize it more as a transformation rather than a cancellation."

Rodriguez added, "This year, in hearing what our residents here wanted to see, and what our council was looking for, was something that was family friendly."

The new event will be named “Wings Over Watsonville,” and Wempe said he and a few other board members will continue to volunteer with the event this year.

FMI: www.watsonvilleflyin.org.