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WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Thousands of people are expected to attend the air show at McConnell Air Force Base this weekend. The event is popular for many reasons — it’s free, features the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other aerial performers, and is the first air show and open house at the base in four years.
Frontiers in Flight Open House and Air Show runs from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24 and 25. The many high-flying acts start at noon each day, ending with the Thunderbirds performing at 3 p.m.
In addition to the aerial performances, you can tour four-dozen military and civilian planes along the flight line, including a Dreamlifter, KC-135s, F16s, and Army helicopters. Also, the KSN Storm Tracker 3 vehicle will be in the STEM hangar. Stop by and visit KSN Chief Meteorologist Lisa Teachman and meteorologists Warren Sears and Lucy Doll.
In order to really enjoy the day, it’s best to be prepared. Hopefully, these tips will help.
Organizers say they put a lot of thought into improving parking since the last air show. However, there will be a lot of cars on Rock Road and the intersecting streets. McConnell says to have enough gas in your tank to wait in congested traffic.
McConnell Air Force Base is on the southeast side of Wichita. It is on Rock Road between Pawnee and 47th Street South.
Click here for a larger map image.
McConnell Air Force Base discourages using services such as a cab, Uber or Lyft to get to the show. There is no designated area for you to be picked up. Also, at the end of the show, all lanes will be used for exiting, so a driver would not be able to enter to get you.
If you need wheelchair access, click here to fill out and submit a request.
Click this link to see the layout of the open house. It includes the location of the planes, STEM exhibits, water stations, first aid, bathrooms, and more.
When your children are still going strong, but you need a break, stop by the Kid Zone and let them work off some energy. The Kid Zone will be at the north end of the flight line, near the STEM hangar and the Lost Child Trailer.
Some of the fun includes an inflatable slide, Lego station, turbo tubs, ladder climb, temporary tattoos, and fun party hair.
The air show and open house are free, but there is a seating area for people who want to pay for VIP seats. It includes box seats for $40, a table for two for $300, and a table for four for $600. The area with tables includes lunch and unlimited soft drinks.
Click here to learn more and to purchase VIP seats. If you need help, call 316-669-9929.
The Kansas Aviation Museum, 3350 George Washington Boulevard, is on the other side of McConnell’s tarmac. It is holding an air show watch party and offering front row, open seating on the tarmac and field. Admission is $20 a vehicle, with up to 12 people allowed per vehicle.
You would still need to bring blankets or lawn chairs. You will also have access to the first floor of the museum. There will be bounce houses, food trucks, and games available.
Click this link to buy tickets in advance. You can buy tickets at the gate, but they will be limited and cash only.
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