Photography Cameron Flaisch
This weekend kicks off the 2018 Wings Over North Georgia Airshow at the Russell Regional Airport. Reserved parking opens at 8:00 am and the general admission gates open at 9:00 am. This year does not feature big jet teams like the Blue Angels or the Thunderbirds. However, this year features the amazing USAF F-22 Raptor demo team, the USAF A-10 Thunderbolt demo team and the Tora! Tora! Tora! Pearl Harbor re-enactment team.
John Cowman, President and Producer, explained the headliners this year, “The F-22 Raptor is a headliner all by itself. The sound from its jet engines and its agility in the sky make it a headliner in itself. We also have the A-10 Warthog Tank Killer team that will be demonstrating their abilities. The Tora! Tora! Tora! team showcases re-enactments consisting of massive pyrotechnics, explosions and firewalls.”
Wings Over North Georgia Performer Information:
U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team
The F-22 Raptor is one of the U.S. Air Force’s newest fighter aircraft and audiences in Rome, GA will be able to see witness the maneuverability, integrated avionics, and improved supportability that represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The Air Combat Command F-22 Demonstration Team at Langley Air Force Base performs precision aerial maneuvers to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Piloted by Maj. Paul “Loco” Lopez, the routine features maneuvers designed for combat operations, but performed at much lower altitudes. Following the flight demonstration, the aircraft will team up with Air Force Heritage flight to demonstrate the history and breadth of evolution and development of military aircraft in the U.S. Air Force.
U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II Demo Team
The A-10 is the Air Force’s premier close air support aircraft, providing invaluable protection to troops on the ground. The Air Combat Command A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team is the newest single-ship aerial program and brings the aircraft to air shows around the country to showcase it’s unique combat capabilities. The team performs precision aerial maneuvers while highlighting the mission and professionalism of the men and women of the U.S. Air Force. Like the Raptor demonstration team, the performance focuses on the history of military aviation by flying in formation with historical aircraft from the Air Force Heritage Foundation. The team is based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona and the aircraft is piloted by Capt. Cody “ShIV” Wilton. The appearance in Rome, GA will be one of only 20 performances for their 2018 air show schedule.
U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight Team
The Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation celebrates U.S. air power history by providing 40–60 annual Heritage Flight demonstrations around the world. Heritage Flights are flown at events ranging from open houses and air shows to sporting events, parades, and funerals. Established more than 20 years ago, the team currently consists of 10 civilian pilots qualified to fly vintage warbirds in formation with modern Air Force single-ship demonstration teams and F-4 pilots. Heritage Flights seek to honor the contributions of every man and woman who has has fought for this country.
Tora! Tora! Tora!
Tora! Tora! Tora! will present a dramatic recreation of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. This emotionally moving crowd favorite consists of replica Zero fighters, Kate torpedo bombers and Val dive bomber aircraft, along with realistic explosions, fire and smoke. An emotional and factual narration complete with President Roosevelt’s address places spectators in the battle and salutes fallen soldiers on both sides of the conflict. The feature is a vivid history lesson for air show spectators and a first time appearance for the demonstration in Rome, GA.
Michael Goulian Aerosports
Millions of air show spectators around the globe have witnessed the ferocity of Mike Goulian air show performances. Every roll, pull, and tumble of his flight is a deliberate precision execution. With his aggressive approach to the air show arena, Mike Goulian has mastered the ability to convey his message of passion through flight. Mike won the United States Unlimited Aerobatic Championship at only 27 years of age. He also was honored to represent the United States at the World Aerobatic Championship on three separate occasions. As an air show superstar Mike Goulian continues to redefine what is possible in the air. His ability to push the limits while adhering to strict safety standards has earned Mike the reputation of being a true professional in his field.
Air Show Schedule for Saturday/Sunday
8:00 am Reserved Parking Opens
8:30 am Remote Shuttle Service Begins
8:30 am Ticket Booths Open
9:00 am Gates Open
12:00 pm Opening Ceremonies
12:30 pm Aerial Performances begin
4:00 pm F-22, A-10 and Tora! Tora! Tora! Teams perform
Parade of Veterans
3:15 pm Current and former military members are invited to participate in the Parade of Veterans prior to the jet team performances on Saturday and Sunday. Participants will begin assembling on the north ramp at 3:00 pm. This tribute honors all members of the US Armed Forces.
Additional Activities Saturday/Sunday
All Day Static display area, aviation fly-in, kids’ zone
Tickets and Parking Information
https://www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com/guest-information/ticket-options
Admission, VIP Chalet, and Family Packs available
