Pilots (And Others) Dazzle Fargo AirSho Crowd

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Daring pilots and powerful planes took to the skies in Fargo for the Fargo Airsho.

“Airshows are fantastic. To be able to share the joy of flight, it’s just magic out there.”

And the talented pilots aren’t the only attraction at the Airsho. There’s also exhibits on aerospace and STEM technologies for young kids.

UND Aerospace was also at the event, sharing what their programs have to offer to those aspiring to take flight.

“Obviously a lot of young kids come over here. They tell us about how much they love the flight simulators and stuff, but seeing the real thing parked back over here, they put two and two together.”

Basu said that the event is also a chance for all the pilots and aerospace workers to get to see what opportunities are out there.

“At the end of the day, we’re flying every single day, and that’s not something that everyone gets to do.”

And for the stunt pilots, it’s a chance to show off their skills.

“Having an airplane like this with the addition of the jet engine on the bottom allows me to do some unique and wild and crazy maneuvers. It’s such a blast to get up high, and look at the crowd down there and inspire the kids and the next generation.”

Lindeman flies the Jet Waco, a modified 1929 Biplane with a jet engine attached.

“People don’t expect a 1929 biplane, an open cockpit biplane to sound like that with the two distinct sounds with the different engines, and to be able to do those maneuvers. So it’s really cool to put a smile on people’s faces and get them thinking outside of the box.”

He says that while the stunts are complicated, once he gets up there he’s just working to entertain the crowd.

“You’re focused, you’re flying the airplane. You don’t even really realize the crowd is down there. You know where they’re at, you maintain your lines, and you get the job done.”

And afterwards, the work doesn’t stop.

“Those types of maneuvers, I mean it’s practice, practice, practice to get them perfect.”