2006 Westfield International Airshow

by Ken Middleton

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  United States of America Independence Day 2006 

 

These photos were taken at Barnes Air National Guard Base Westfield, Massachusetts USA

The Barnes ANGB 2006 Airshow took place on 24-25 June 2006. I was also fortunate to be on base on 23 June for arrivals and practices. The major act of the show was the US Navy's Blue Angels. The base is home to the 104th Fighter Wing of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, and the A-10A Thunderbolt II, or better known as the "Warthog".

The weather was less than stellar all 3 days, but that didn't stop most acts and actually created some unique effects for photography. I didn't get to the far right end of the show where some helicopters, a C-5 and a Fed Ex Airbus were on display - so I apologize for not getting those shots.

Special thanks to the 104th FW Public Affairs Office for access. 

Some arrivals and parked aircraft

(click on the images below to load the full size photos)

Only 3 of the Blue Angels' jets and Fat Albert were present on Friday due to problems traveling from Europe from the prior weekend's show. The other 4 jets arrived at 5:15 PM that evening. The 3 jets practiced at various points throughout the day. I was fortunate to also go out on the ramp and meet some of the Blue Angels and see their aircraft up close.

More statics, arrivals and fly-bys which include the USN E-6 "Mercury" (the large white 4 engined plane)

The West Coast F-15 Demo put on an impressive display all 3 days with a low show Saturday and Sunday due to the weather. The weather actually made for lots of moisture.

The civilian acts were a bit tougher to shoot for me due to the aircraft size and overcast sky, so I only got one decent shot. Here is also the C-47 and B-25.

The 104th FW puts on a pyrotechnic display with their A-10s.

Which include the Wall of Fire

The USN Blue Angels 

Saab Automobiles had a display of their cars' abilities. Here's the Barnes Airport manager getting a ride. Also, a picture of the jet truck by Under Pressure Fire & Rescue    

Photos and text © by Ken Middleton