Lancaster Air Show Expected to Draw Thousands

Thousands of aviation enthusiasts are expected to converge on William J. Fox Airfield in Lancaster on Sunday for the annual Antelope Valley Air Show.

The event will feature professional aerobatic demonstrations by various types of aircraft from helicopters to Lear jets, show co-chairman Tom Pugh said.

Also on the day’s program will be sky-diving exhibitions, hot-air balloon races, antique car exhibits, helicopter rides, radio-controlled model aircraft and displays of military, classic and antique aircraft.

The air show has been held in some form at Fox field since 1978, when it began as an open house.

Since 1988, the show has been sponsored by the Lancaster Rotary Club. Pugh said the 50-member organization hopes to raise between $15,000 and $20,000 for Antelope Valley charities. Projects that have been undertaken by the club in the past include a drug education program for Antelope Valley youth.

On Sunday, the gates at Fox field, 4555 W. Avenue G, will open at 8 a.m. The show will continue through 4 p.m. A noon ceremony will be held to present awards to winners of various competitions. A special plaque will be presented to the Civil Air Patrol, which is marking its 50th anniversary, Pugh said.

Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for seniors 62 and older, children ages 6 through 12 and uniformed military personnel. Children 5 and younger will be admitted free.

Pugh said about 15,000 people are expected to attend this year’s show. Last year’s event attracted more than 7,000 people.