The Jacqueline Cochran Air Show returns to the Coachella Valley Oct. 25.
The Riverside County Economic Development Agency and Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport Authority puts on this free biennial community event.
Set to run 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the show features aerobatic performances by Jon Melby, David Mathieson, and Vicki Benzing. The Golden Stars Skydiving Team will perform demonstration jumps and Kent Pietsch will land his Interstate Cadet airplane on a moving truck.
This year the Smoke-n-Thunder Jet show is an exciting addition; featuring an exhilarating race between John Collver and his plane against Bill Braak in his Jet Car.
World War II buffs will enjoy the variety of vintage, military, and civilian aircraft on display, including the B-25, Bearcat and more.
The show includes more than 60 food, merchandise, and specialty booths, plus a free Kids’ Zone.
In 2004, the County of Riverside dedicated the Desert Resorts Regional Airport in honor of Jacqueline “Jackie” Cochran, who was one of the most prominent aviators of the 20th century. Cochran held more speed, altitude, and distance records than any other pilot, male or female. She was a long time resident of the Coachella Valley and regularly utilized the airport in Thermal over the course of her long aviation career.
Jacqueline Cochran Air Show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport, 56850 Higgins, in Thermal; www.jacquelinecochranairshow.org
