Things to Do

High-Flying Fun Was Had at the Bluebonnet Air Show

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Tony Maples Photography

 

The 26th Annual Bluebonnet Air Show came in for a landing at the “Best Little Airport in Texas” on Saturday, September 9, 2017. The perfect outing in which to watch vintage planes bob and weave in a breathtaking display of aerial acrobatics, for those ready to experience high-flying fun, Burnet, in the Texas Hill Country, was the place to be for a day jam-packed with exciting performances.

Bluebonnet Belle

Photo: Facebook/Bluebonnet Air Show

The fun began bright and early Saturday morning as gates opened at 10 a.m. Aircraft used throughout the history of flight were on display for visitors to get up close and personal. Food and merchandise vendors were also on-site. And, around noon, pilots took to the air for a series of flight performances that lasted until approximately 4 p.m.

This year’s airshow acts included exploits by several World War II era aircraft, including the pride of the Highland Lakes Squadron, the Bluebonnet Belle.  This vintage aircraft flew 75 missions for the British Royal Air Force during the final months of WWII and continued to be of use for several years after.

Belle and the Austin parachute kicked off the festivities during the show’s opening ceremony, with several other acts following suit.

Bluebonnet Air Show

Photo: Facebook/Randall Stephens

For those looking to take the fun off of the runway and into the wild blue yonder, certain planes were available for 30-minute excursions. Some aircraft were capable of carrying up to 12 passengers, while others were best suited for a single individual. Prices ranged from $75 to $150 per person, also depending on what plane was desired. Larger aircraft required riders to be at least five years of age while the smaller planes had a minimum age limit of 12.

The Bluebonnet Airshow was a great opportunity to learn about the history of aviation with hands-on activities for the whole family.  General admission for the event this year was $5 for ages six to 17 and $15 for ages 18-59. Special military and senior citizen discounts were also available, and children five-years-old and younger were able to attend at no cost. The price ranges were all very reasonable for an airshow such as this, not to mention a great day of family fun.

For information regarding this year’s past event, as well as potential future shows, visit their web page or call (512) 756-2226.