AMERICAN HEROES BRINGS HELICOPTERS TO THE COMMUNITY
The American Heroes Air Show has been a staple for members of the public and helicopter enthusiasts since 1992. Each year shows are held in Texas, Georgia, Virginia, Nevada, California, Washington, and Florida. Rotorcraft Pro attended this year’s show (rescheduled from February to May 17 due to weather) on the Santa Fe College campus in Gainesville, Florida. Here’s a look at what the experience has to off er. The show-day skies could only be described as ‘severe clear’ and such stellar conditions enticed families out in droves. Attendees included aircraft from many law enforcement agencies as well as private operators, fl ight schools, and tour operators. Aircraft manufacturers were prominent- ly displayed, with a large showing from the event’s major sponsor, Airbus Helicopters, being represented by AS350 aircraft from the Citrus County and Lee County sheriff offi ces and an EC135 owned by EMS provider to the Gainesville area, ShandsCair. The large crowd was entertained throughout the day with demonstra-
tions from the show’s supporting law enforcement agency, the Alachua County Sheriff ’s Offi ce. The department provided a K-9 demonstration, drag car display, and static displays of their two Bell Helicopter OH58 aircraft that form their joint aviation unit with the Gainesville Police Department. The crowd enjoyed helicopter rides provided by Tampa Bay Aviation’s Robinson R44. All day, squeals of delight could be heard from children disembarking the aircraft, giddy from their fi rst helicopter fl ight. A strong vendor presence provided ample opportunity for everyone to get to know education-based organizations, federal and local law
enforcement recruiters, aviation parts suppliers, and community groups. Static displays from local emergency services organizations fi lled the north end of the fi eld and proved to be just as popular with the crowds as the aircraft. Over 21 aircraft fl ew in for the show, including a Sikorsky UH-60 from US Customs and Border Protection, a Boeing MD 600N, and even an ex-military SA-341 Gazelle. The attendance and atmosphere Rotorcraft Pro found in Gainesville should encourage you to put the American Heroes Air Show on your must-see calendar if it comes to a city near you. – by Ryan Mason
Above: Contrasting operations were on full display at the show with a Customs and Border Protection Blackhawk and a Tampa Bay Aviation R44 being at opposite ends of the spectrum.
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