Spectators get first look at the Blue Angels before the McConnell Air Show | Home

WICHITA, Kansas (KAKE) – Destiny Mast has attended several air shows in Wichita, but that doesn't diminish her excitement to see the U.S. Navy Blue Angels in action.

“I got here about 9:00, or actually 9:30, a little bit before them. And I watched the first run, so to speak. And I thought, 'Sure, right on time,'” Mast said. “So I'm excited.”

She and others gathered at the Kansas Aviation Museum to get a first taste.

“Our job is to represent the Navy, Marine Corps and members of the armed forces, and our job is to go out and represent those folks to the public,” said Lt. Cmdr. Greg Jones. “We do that through outreach and air demonstrations across the country.”

Many Wichita residents, including children, were able to watch the aerobatics up close on Thursday as the Blue Angels performed a practice run in the skies over south Wichita.

Hunter Lumley of the Blue Angels crew said he was excited to bring the show back to the aviation capital of the world.

“There aren't many cities that get to see the Navy side, especially an Air Force city like this one. Just being able to spread that knowledge and love means a lot to us.”

While the air show preview was a treat for fans who were able to get a little taste, for some it was a personal affair.

“My husband is in the Air Force. I served for 10 years. I lost my brother in Afghanistan. My son is going into the Navy on Sunday,” said veteran Tiffany Gobble. “So this is all very important. To me, it's not just an air show. It's a showcase of our country and what we can really do as a military and what we stand for as a country.”

The Blue Angels haven't been to Wichita since 2007. The show will be held Saturday and Sunday at McConnell AFB. Find all the details here.