The Dayton Vectren Air Show is one event I look forward to every year. I've often rented a lens or teleconverter for the air show, but the past couple of years I've relied on the excellent glass of the Canon 200mm f/2.8 L II lens with a Canon 2X teleconverter. Although occasionally I feel a zoom would be beneficial, most of my shots are within the range of this combo. 

Attendance was down due to the cancellation of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels demonstration team due to the unfortunate death of Marine Corps pilot and opposing solo Captain Jeff Kuss who was killed in a crash in Smyrna, Tennessee earlier this month. However, the weather was perfect to watch the show. An F/A-18 Super Hornet honoring Capt. Kuss was one of many performers of the day. The crowd observed a moment of silence for the lost pilot.

The show began with the United States Navy Leap Frogs parachuting and displaying our nation's flag as the Star Spangled Banner. One member carried a "6" flag to honor Capt. Kuss. It is always a spectacle to see the skill of sky divers in their ability to steer and control their descent to be able to expertly land on their target. 

My two-year-old son has been enamored with airplanes for quite some time and this show was a hit with him. My wife found a die-cast USN Blue Angel for our son a couple months ago. He loved seeing planes fly across the blue sky as well as play with daddy's camera in between acts.

The real star of the show was the United States Air Force F-22 Raptor. It really is a technological marvel and a delight to see fly and be able to turn on a dime. And to see it in contrast to the P-51 Mustang, "Baby Duck," really gave one a view of the role of a fighter over a seven decade period. 

Other performers included Patty Wagstaff, Melissa Pemberton, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Redline Airshows (below.)

Of course, Sean D. Tucker was there with his Oracle Challenger III. Tucker learn aerobatic flying to overcome his fear of flying. And does he ever put on one of the greatest shows in the sky!