HOUSTON – Pilots from all over the world are gathering in Ellington Field this weekend to show off their aviation skills in the Ron Carter Wings Over Houston Airshow. 

“It’s our 24^th annual show and a great family event,” said Jacqueline Martin, who works as part of the events public relations team. “A lot of my friends grew up going to this event.  It’s a Houston tradition.”

The show will feature acrobatic performances from a father and son team (Sean and Eric William Drake Tucker), Julie Clark in her Chevron Mentor T-34 and a crowd favorite – the Flash Fire Jet Truck, which is a truck with a jet engine on the back.

Audiences will also get to watch military demonstrations including the Apache AH64, USAF Heritage Flight, A-10, F-18, USN Legacy Flight and much more.

But what is the best part of the show?

“Everything is great, but a lot people are coming to watch the USAF Thunderbirds,” said Martin.  “Part of the United States Air Force, they are the best of the best.”

Whether you are there to watch the breathtaking aerial maneuvers or simply love the planes, the Ron Carter Airshow has it all.  The expert flyers will even be performing a World War II reenactment of Tora! Tora! Tora!, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, complete with fiery bombs.

In addition to the show in the air, spectators can check out a B-25 Mitchell Bomber from World War II.  Part of DAV (Disabled American Veterans), people view the fully restored plane, participate in their interactive display, and learn about the services the group provides to veterans across the United States.

The airshow opened on Friday with a special preview show for over 4,600 children and adults with special needs.  The general public can watch the show on October 25 and 26.

Gates open at 8 a.m. at Ellington Field and the show starts at 10 a.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children 6-11.  It’s free for children under 5.   

Parking at the field is limited.  They recommend riding METRO and taking shuttles from Bay Area Park and Ride and Fuqua Park and Ride.  For more information, visit: www.wingsoverhouston.com.