How do you host the Alliance Air Show during a pandemic? Make it a drive-in, of course
This year’s 30th anniversary celebration of the Bell Fort Worth Alliance Air Show promises to be memorable, and not just because the Air Force Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform.
The air show is scheduled for Oct. 17-18 at Alliance Airport in far north Fort Worth. This year’s festivities will be held drive-in-style, with attendees offered a chance to watch the performers from their cars.
“Our newly reformatted event will be a memorable, fun and socially distanced drive-in experience as we celebrate 30 years of soaring excellence,” Christina Carey, director of special projects for Alliance Air Productions, said in an email. “The circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic provided the unique opportunity to be innovative in how to move forward with hosting the air show for the North Texas community.”
A limited number of parking tickets will be available online for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis, officials said. The tickets will be sold beginning in mid-September at AllianceAirShow.com, but will not be available for walk-ups.
The plan includes using the airport’s vast grassy parking areas surrounding the airfield to spread people out. Vehicles will be parked with social distancing in mind, and guests will have not only a spot for their cars but also an additional spot to spread out lawn chairs and picnic.
“Guests still will be able to photograph, see and feel the heart-thumping roar of the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other best-in-class performers,” air show officials said in a news release.
This year’s air show will not have the usual exhibits, children’s play areas or VIP seating.
Also, guests will be required to wear masks at all times.
Grills, tents, recreational vehicles and smoking also will not be allowed.
Restrooms and hand-washing stations will be available.
Carey said that, if the airshow ultimately can’t be held, ticket buyers will be refunded. But organizers are optimistic and hopeful that the show will go on.
The Bell Fort Worth Alliance Air Show was named “Best Air Show” in the 2020 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Since 2006, The air show has raised more than $760,000 for about 70 nonprofit organizations.
