Greetings Everyone!
Here we are, little more than 90 days out from what is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular, action-packed Arctic Thunder air shows we’ve had in recent years. Let me spend a minute telling you why I believe this year’s air show will be huge.
World Class Performers
A roster of the nation’s most spectacular aerial acts are locked in. Leading off, we have the Air Force’s Thunderbird demonstration team. Arctic Thunder 2008 will also feature demonstrations of air power prowess with demonstrations by such aircraft as the F-22 raptor, the F-15 Eagle, and the C-17 Globemaster III. Other military aircraft performances are in the works. Of course, the flight line will be filled with static displays of the nation’s frontline fighter, bomber and cargo aircraft, along with other civilian and historical aircraft.
We have also put together leading aerial performers to bring you eye-watering acrobatics that will take your breath away. Returning to Arctic Thunder are Greg Poe, Jon Melby and Debbie Gary, each stretching the envelop of flight in their own, unique ways. We have Anchorage’s own Marcus Paine and his innocent-looking Super Decathlon put through the paces with unusual attitudes. We also anticipate the loud and proud Ole Yeller, a WWII-era P-51 Mustang, headlining the heritage flight with today’s contemporary fighter aircraft.
Statehood Celebration
Many Alaskans know that we begin a year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of statehood. You will be pleased to learn that the 2008 Arctic Thunder air show is now recognized by the State of Alaska as the kick-off event. More items are in the works-stay tuned to either the Arctic Thunder or the Alaska Air Show Association website for more details as they emerge.
As part of honoring Alaskan aviation and Alaska’s role in WWII, the Pacific Prowler B-25 will lead an aerial parade that will also feature a DC-3 and other aircraft of the era that are still in use today, making a positive contribution to life in remote Alaska. The roar and rumble of these radial engines will be something you won’t soon forget!
Value-Added Partnering Opportunities Available
With the guidance of the senior leadership at Elmendorf, we have scrubbed our partner benefits package to ensure we can offer you the most value for your partnering contributions to the Alaska Air Show Association. We have some new offerings. For the first time, the Association offers product exclusivity, and we can tailor benefits to suit your needs. I encourage you to explore our website and do feel free to contact our marketing team via our partnering page. Let us know what we can do to put you and your guests at show center, maximizing your enjoyment of Arctic Thunder 2008.
If I can be of assistance at any time, please do not hesitate to contact me at (907) 770-4378 or email: bill.kontess.
Respectfully,
Bill Kontess
President Alaska Air Show Association
