Air show attendance down after Thunderbirds cancel

Associated Press

DAYTON

An Ohio air show’s attendance was lower than expected after the Air Force Thunderbirds canceled performances when an F-16D fighter jet left the runway and flipped over upon landing during preparation for the show.

Organizers estimate 44,000 spectators attended the Vectren Dayton Air Show over the weekend. Expectations were for 60,000 or more.

The two team members on the plane were hospitalized after Friday’s accident.

The Thunderbirds are based in Las Vegas. They say the pilot remained hospitalized in good condition Monday. The other team member was released Friday night.

Officials say crowds can reach 65,000 or more when military demonstration squads participate.

Organizers estimated 51,000 spectators attended last year, despite cancellation by the Navy’s Blue Angels after one of their pilots was killed practicing for an air show in Tennessee.