BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - Despite a forecast of scattered rain shows and gusty winds, weather is not expected to play a significant factor for this weekend's air show at Buffalo's Outer Harbor.
"Short of a thunderstorm, there's really nothing that's going to stop a military aircraft from flying," Ben Canetti, the air show director of the Thunder on the Buffalo Waterfront, said.
Headlining this weekend's show at the Outer Harbor are the US Navy Blue Angels, who are showcasing their new F-18 Super Hornets, and a C-130 J-Model, which is one of the largest cargo aircrafts in the country. Joining them are the Canadian CF-18 Hornet Team, the Air Force's F-16 Viper Team, C-17 Demonstration Team, plus local performers.
Canetti said a final call on the non-military aircrafts will be at stage-time.
"We're expecting a full show," Canetti said.
James Cox, one of the pilots for the Blue Angels Demonstration Team, does not foresee any major issues with performing this weekend in Buffalo. When they visit each city, there are challenges related to the cityscape and weather.
"It's always challenging to us but we go through a pretty rigorous pre-flight study starting Tuesday or Wednesday the week of our arrival," Cox said. "We come well-prepared for our first flight in the city on Thursday."
Because the Blue Angels will be performing on the Outer Harbor and utilizing markers on the Lake Erie break wall, Cox said there's more safety margins compared to other cities.
Cox and other members of the Blue Angels on Friday spoke to a group of teenagers, many of whom are planning on pursuing careers in the military. They discussed their careers, the standards to become a pilot, and more with the children.
Traffic and Closures
If you're going to the air show this weekend, there will be many road closures in and around the Outer Harbor.
Those of you driving to the event and taking the Skyway will be directed to the Tifft Street exit. The Outer Harbor Drive exit will be closed both Saturday and Sunday.
Furhmann Boulevard will be closed north of Ohio Street. Those of you with a ticket can have it checked at the corner of Ohio Street and Fuhrmann Boulevard. From there, you will be directed to the appropriate lot.
Walkers and bicyclists will not be allowed beyond the security checkpoint unless they have a ticket to the show.
Boaters are allowed to explore the water but are asked to follow the directions given by the US Coast Guard. There will be a restricted zone for boaters.
The lots will open at 8 a.m. and parking will be done on a "first come, first serve" basis. It costs $20 to park your car. The nearby Charlie's Boat Yard will be charge $40 per car.
The boat launches will be closed through Sunday. Current slipholders will need IDs or stickers to reach their slip.
