By KAREN BLOOM
The 2003 New York Air Show celebrates the first 100 years of powered flight, featuring aerial performances by day, with special Grucci fireworks at night.During the three day celebration of flight, Sept. 19-21, visitors can get a first-hand look at key military aircraft as well as experience thrilling demonstrations by solo pilots, acrobatic teams and formation skydivers. Both historical and active duty aircraft will be on view in displays, flybys and tactical demonstrations. The event, sponsored by Northrop Grumman Corp., and other local companies, benefits Central Suffolk Hospital and Dowling College School of Aviation."It is 100 years since the Wright Brothers' first flight at Kitty Hawk," noted Air Show producer Steven Kirschenbaum. "The air show honors America's history, its legendary inventors and manufacturers, and the brave men and women of the Armed Forces. "We will showcase our national talents in ways that will enlighten and engage."Among those manufacturers, Long Island's Grumman, now Northrop Grumman, plays a key role in the program. The show takes place at Grumman's former airfield in Calverton and features a display of its famed fighter plane, the F-14 Tomcat, as well as a demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt, built on Long Island. Both aircraft are currently in military use. In addition, retired Grumman employees made important contributions, raising funds and serving as consultants to the program."Air shows are prime attractions throughout the world," said Air Show committee member and former Grumman Deputy Vice President of Engineering Joseph Van de Wetering. "With Long Island's rich history in the aerospace defense industry, it is fitting that this inaugural air show take place (here)."There'll be much to see and experience. Air Show weekend kicks off Friday, Sept. 19 with a carnival, featuring rides, attractions and entertainment, including fireworks. Admission is free on opening day. Flying, which takes place during daylight hours only, begins Saturday at noon. The scheduled performers include:
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U.S. Air Force Tactical Demonstration Team - One of six fighter demonstration teams sponsored by the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command. Out of Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, N.C., the team will perform a combination of high and slow speed maneuvers, rolls, climbs, and descents.
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Aeroshell Aerobatic Team - An award -winning four aircraft aerobatic team consisting of pilots flying precision formation maneuvers in the World War II North American Advanced Trainer.
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Sky Dive Long Island's "Gravity Angels" - Displays of formation precision skydiving.
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Pilot Mike Mancuso - Flying the Klein Tools Extra 300, a German-built low wing composite aircraft, through heart-pounding areobatics.
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World War II Demonstration Aircraft - Relive and experience the people and the planes that turned the course of the war. When you're done gazing upwards towards the sky, there's plenty to do on the ground. From technological displays and flight simulators to carnival rides and aviation memorabilia, it will be a fascinating aviation experience for the entire family.
2003 New York Air Show
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-21. 4-11 p.m., Friday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday. Admission: $13 adult, $8 children 12 and under, in advance: $15 adult, $10 children 12 and under, at gate. Enterprise Park, Route 25 East (LIE exit 68 N), Calverton. (631) 548-8314 or www.newyorkairshow.org. Tickets may be purchased online at www.ticketweb.com.
