Story & Photos by Chris Buff

Robins AFB has always put on a great show and this year was no exception. The Robins AFB planners really understand how to move people in an out of an airshow, making it a very enjoyable venue to attend. Visitors were greeted with a huge variety of static displays ranging from modern military aircraft like the C-17, C-130J and B-52 to classic warbirds like the P-51 Mustang, SBD Dauntless and B-25 Mitchell. As always seems to be the case at Southeastern U.S. airshows this time of year, the weather started out great but deteriorated quickly by the time the flying activities began. That said, the weather situation could not dampen the spirits of the spectators or the performers. Patty Wagstaff put on her usual outstanding flying display, and the military flight performances included the C-5, C-130, E-8, F-15C & E, F-22 and B-2. While the F-22 and B-2 were limited to a few passes down the runway centerline, the East Coast Demo F-15C performed with its trademark power and speed. Until the Raptor replaces the Eagle on the airshow circuit, the F-15 will continue to dominate the U.S. military airshow stage.

A unique and impressive performance was offered by the U.S. Army Aviation Heritage Foundation with their Vietnam Era show. They demonstrated an LZ insertion, air support and medivac using 2 Hueys, 2 Cobras, a Mohawk, Carribou, Cessna Birddog  and LH-6 Loach. Dramatic Pyros lend a degree of authenticity to the performance. The Heritage flight consisted of the East Coast Demo F-15C and the P-51 Mustang "Crazy Horse".

The climax of this year's show was the performance by the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds. Even though the cloud deck was low and thick, the Thunderbirds showed off the power and precision of the F-16C "Viper" to great effect. All in all, this was another top-notch airshow for Robins AFB. I look forward to next year.

All photos are compressed and reduced in size for speed purposes. Broadband connection strongly recommended. All photos  ©2006 Chris Buff - www.Aviationbuff.com  Image downloads for personal use only. No redistribution or commercial sale of these images will be permitted without written authorization from Chris Buff.