The US Air Force Thunderbirds are back in the Peach State and are ready to rock the skies of Rome, Georgia during the 2020 Wings Over North Georgia drive-in air show slated for this Saturday and Sunday at the Russell Regional Airport. The pilots and crew landed at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta on Thursday ahead of their weekend performance in Rome.
Thunderbird #5 Major Michelle Curran, lead solo pilot, asserts that her team will perform a ‘normal’ show for this new drive-in format, which she believes will provide an enjoyable experience for air show fans.
The Thunderbirds most recently graced the Georgia skies alongside the US Navy’s Blue Angels as part of the America Strong series of flyovers to honor healthcare workers on the frontlines in the fight against coronavirus. Atlanta’s flyover took place back in early May. Major Curran (callsign “Mace”) attests that America Strong extended both of those teams’ outreach beyond air shows and provided encouragement to many during a challenging time.
Major Curran states that Rome, Georgia is among only six show sites for the Thunderbirds in 2020; the team performs in around 35 cities during a typical show season.
Rob Skelton, air show director (and former Thunderbird), indicates that much time and effort has been put into producing Wings Over North Georgia safely in light of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
John Cowman, President of JLC Airshow Management, states that this year’s line-up is the biggest in show history. View the full list of performers and get tickets to the show at www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com. Tickets may only be purchased in advance.
Attendees will be able to hear narration of the ’20 Wings Over North Georgia drive-in air show on WLAQ 1410 AM and 96.9 FM.