VAN NUYS : Aviation Expo ’94 Prepares for Takeoff

Parachute jumps, firefighting rescue operations and dozens of vintage aircraft will highlight this year’s Van Nuys Airport Aviation Expo Saturday and Sunday.

Expo ‘94, which is free to the public, will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and is expected to draw 250,000 enthusiasts. The pedestrian entrance is at 8030 Balboa Blvd. in Van Nuys.

The event, whose theme is “The Spirit of Los Angeles,” will honor community heroes for acts of courage following the Northridge earthquake.

In commemoration of this theme, the elite U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will launch programs at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. each day. The paratroopers will leap from C-130 Hercules aircraft.

Firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department will use their helicopters in mock rescue operations at 11:45 a.m. both days and perform a water-drop demonstration.

The event is one of the largest displays of military aircraft in the nation, according to Van Nuys Airport Manager Ronald J. Kochevar.

Featured military aircraft will include the B-52 and B-1 bombers, AC-130 Gunship, F-14 Tomcat, F-15 Strike Eagle, F-16 Falcon, F-18 Hornet, RF-4 Wild Weasel, and KC-10 and KC-135 fuel tankers. Cobra, Blackhawk and Huey helicopters will also be on display. Complimentary parking and shuttle bus service are available at three remote lots. Parking locations include the Van Nuys Swap Meet at 8345 Hayvenhurst Place, Kaiser Marquardt Industries at 16555 Saticoy St. and an open field at 17500-17600 Victory Blvd. Parking for the disabled will be available at 8050 Balboa Blvd.

All concession proceeds will benefit area charities and nonprofit organizations.

For more event and parking information, call (818) 773-3293.

Aviation Expo Parking A. Van Nuys Swap Meet 8345 Hayvenhurst Place B. Kaiser Marquardt Industries 16555 Saticoy St. C. Handicapped Parking 8050 Balboa Blvd. D. Recreation and Parks Field 17500-17600 Victory Blvd.