Weather lends a hand to Cape Girardeau Air Show

The 2016 Cape Girardeau Air Show flew into the area May 11 and left spectators excited and entertained. Individuals and families were able to enjoy the activities under friendly skies, as bad weather took some time off to allow a clear shot of the show.

The RedLine Aerobatic team, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the SkyHawks, the Canadian skydiving team, performed their maneuvers to the crowd's delight.

"They hardly could have asked for a prettier backdrop," according to a story in the Southeast Missourian. "The fickle weather had broken to form giant, sun-drenched clouds after periods of thunderstorms the past couple of days."

The break in rain also allowed people to take in the grounds during breaks in the show. The Lamborghini and Ferrari that were to drag-race later was one attraction, and antique aircraft were another.

But people come for a great show in the sky, and that's exactly what they got.

Participation is not for the causal flyer and certainly not the frightened flyer. For example, in one of the most entertaining -- and dangerous -- demonstrations, two pilots flew toward one another, skillfully maneuvering sideways to avoid a direct hit as they soared closely. It's all part of the theatrics.

"You have to be the very best of the best," said Maj. Indira Thackorie, the Snowbirds' public-affairs officer. "These pilots have to have a tremendous amount of flight hours on this particular aircraft, and it's a tremendous honor to be part of the team."

The Cape Girardeau Air Show attendees have come to expect great things from these local airshows. The 2016 event is now in the books, but the thrill remains and will linger in the air until next time.