FARICHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Fairchild Air Force Base is turning 75 and is sharing its anniversary with the Inland Northwest during its first airshow in three years: the Skyfest 2017 Open House and Air Show, scheduled for July 29-30 on base.
This free event is open to the public and features the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other aerial demonstration teams, with many other attractions and acts on tap. There will be fun for the whole family, to include static displays, food vendors and a kid’s zone.
The goal of Skyfest is to inform American taxpayers about Fairchild’s rich history, highlight U.S. Air Force airpower, and showcase the capabilities of our military and federal services.
“Our team is working hard to put together an amazing experience for the Inland Northwest,” said Maj. Richard Hennies, Skyfest 2017 director. “We are excited to open Fairchild to the public again to showcase some of the great capabilities the Air Force has to offer.”
To ensure the safety of airshow attendees, it’s important for patrons to know what to bring and not bring. The list of prohibited items is not all inclusive and Fairchild Security Forces will have final interpretation of what is and is not safe or allowed on the premises.
So strap on some comfortable walking shoes and get ready for thrills at the most spectacular airshow the Inland Northwest has to offer.
What kind of bag can I bring?
All visitors to Skyfest 2017 are required use transparent, clear or mesh backpacks. Fairchild AFB has implemented a new policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought onto the airfield to provide a safer environment for the public and expedite visitor entry.
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Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12."
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One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
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Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken onto the airfield with one of the clear plastic bags.
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Exception can be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at an entry-control point designated for this purpose.
Additional FAQs can be found here (Click “information”)
HERITAGE/HISTORY
“The U.S. military and Spokane community have a long-standing positive relationship that began before Fairchild Air Force Base even existed,” said Col. Ryan Samuelson, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “In fact, we might not even be here today if not for the proactive and forward-looking actions of a few Eastern Washington citizens more than 75 years ago.”
On March 1, 1942, FAFB opened as the Spokane Air Depot. It was built in Spokane because the location provided better weather and increased security compared to the western part of the state. Originally, the base served as an aircraft repair center, but continued to grow taking on different airframes and different missions.
For more facts and information about how Fairchild AFB evolved to what is it today, click the links below:
Fairchild Air Force Base History
92nd Air Refueling Wing History
The Last Mobile B-52 Training Simulator
Why does Fairchild have a “Bong Street”
What is Building 2050?
PROHIBITED ITEMS
All spectators are prohibited from bringing the following items past the Security Entry Control Point onto the flightline:
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NO coolers
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NO backpacks or excessively large bags (larger than 12"x12"x6"),
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NO weapons* of any kind to include firearms, mace/pepper spray, handcuff keys, toys that resemble weapons, heavy chain link or spiked jewelry
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NO laser pointers
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NO flammable items or fireworks
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NO silly string, spray paint or permanent markers
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NO walkie-Talkies, HAM radios or scanners
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NO glass bottles, liquid without factory seal intact**
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NO bicycles, skateboards, scooters, roller blades/skates/shoes or pets***
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NO alcohol, illegal drugs and medication not in the original/prescription bottle
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NO marijuana will not be allowed whether it be for recreational use or for medicinal purposes. Spectators will be directed to return marijuana to their vehicle or depart the installation.
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NO ground/air remote controlled vehicles to include drones, quadcopters, UAVs, RPAs, RC cars, etc.
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All visitors are subject to search. Security forces members will visually inspect all allowed hand-carried items (diaper bags, small "fanny-packs", strollers, cameras, camcorders, lawn chairs, blankets, etc.
Notes:
* Pockets knives and knives with blades less than 3.5 inches are allowed to be retained by owner.
** Baby bottles/formula are allowed.
*** Service animals are allowed and will not be left unattended in vehicles at any time.
CONFIRMED ACTS (not all inclusive, in no particular order)
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
U.S. Air Force Academy Wings of Blue Parachute Team
Third Strike Wingwalking
Vanguard Squadron
Air Oshinuga
Jacquie B
Jim Bourke
KC-135 Stratotanker
UH-1 Combat Rescue
More information can be found on the official Skyfest website at www.fairchildskyfest.com and http://www.fairchild.af.mil/AirShow/.