“Lightning Strikes Chino!” was the theme for the 2013 Planes of Fame Museum’s airshow, which featured five of the seven flying P-38s in the world. Over 40 warbirds in the air with many more on static display (including several rare or unique aircraft), great aerobatic performers, and numerous veterans sharing their wartime experiences combined once again to make this one of the best airshows in North America. The overall schedule for the airshow is roughly the same from year to year, featuring WWII Pacific, WWII European and Korean air war demonstrations, civilian aerobatic displays, and a flying performance highlighting the specific year’s theme. However, the mix of individual aircraft changes constantly. The one thing which never changes is the large number and variety of aircraft and the almost constant flying, both in formations and individual flybys.

The gates opened at 0800, parking was a breeze, and the pre-sale of electronically readable tickets kept the lines at the entrance gate to a minimum. Shuttles quickly and efficiently transported visitors from the gate to the runway. The extensive flightline provided ample space to set up chairs, although bleacher seating was also available. Almost all of the aircraft which were scheduled to fly were parked in front of the fence, and this area was open in the morning to allow close-up viewing. There was also a re-enactors camp set up, with ground vehicles on display. The flying began promptly at 1100 with a four-ship missing man formation composed of a P-26 Peashooter, P-51D Mustang, P-40C Warhawk and F-86 Sabre. The Silver Wings Wingwalking team, with Lee Olman at the controls of the silver Stearman and Margaret Stivers moving about the aircraft, amazed the crowd. Rob Harrison, the “Tumbling Bear”, put on a beautiful aerobatic performance in his Zlin 50 aircraft. Then it was time for the Pacific Theater Flight to begin. The skies were filled with F4U Corsairs, J2F Duck, F3F, F4F Wildcat, SBD Dauntless, F8F Bearcat, TBM Avengers and a beautifully restored and brightly colored PBY Catalina. An A6M Zeke/Zero and D3A1 Val represented the Japanese forces. The aircraft made multiple passes, both in groups and singly, before turning to land.

A short intermission provided attendees a chance to catch their breath and grab a bite to eat or something to drink at one of the food booths or beer stands. Prices were reasonable, the selection was varied and tables and chairs were provided in the food court. There were plenty of portable toilets distributed over the grounds. A dedicated kids area was also provided.