Story and photography by Chris
Buff
Saturday, May 30, 2009
The 2009 edition of the PDK
airshow was a huge hit with nearly 15,000 people turning out for
a day of sun, fun and outstanding flying. The show organizers
really outdid themselves this year with a first rate lineup
headlined by Team Aeroshell.
In addition to the action in the
air, the Dekalb Peachtree Airshow has built a reputation of
being a great family entertainment venue. This year was no
exception with a wide variety of activities ranging from kids
inflatable slides to plentiful food, local business booths and a
good assortment of accessible static displays.
The flying included impressive 10 plane formation work by Team
RV and thrilling aerobatics by Kent Gorton, Pat Epps and Larry
King. Gary Ward pushed the envelope in his MX-2 and Greg Koontz
performed his “Clem Cleaver and the Alabama boys” comedy routine
along with an amazing display in his Decathlon. Team Aeroshell wrapped up the
flying with their trademark blend of precision flying, ample
smoke and the wonderful sound of the Texan’s mighty engine.
With the perfect combination of
great weather and fun activities for the entire family, Dekalb
Peachtree Airport succeeded in its mission to present itself as
a “good neighbor” to the Atlanta area.
(*Special thanks to Travis Reynolds, The FAA and the PDK airport
management for their hospitality and the opportunity to
photograph from the control towers and scissor lift. This access
contributed to some truly amazing photos from the media
attending the event.)