Category: Airshow Pilots

Kent Pietsch was just four years old when he fell in love with flying. Now, over five decades later Kent has taken his love for flying and developed it into one of the premier aerobatic shows in the U.S. Since 1973 he’s performed at more than 400 airshows thrilling millions of people in the process. You just have to see what this man does with his 800 pound Interstate Cadet. I did at this year’s (2016) Syracuse airshow. Kent Pietsch talked with us about his act. Q – I want…

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He’s known as “Mister Air Show” and for good reason—–he’s won more awards than any other active air show pilot!! A 3 time U.S. and Canadian National Champion, his exciting performances have entertained audiences on 4 continents. We are talking about none other than Mr. Gene Soucy. Q – Gene, how did you get interested in flying? A – Oh, I’ve been around airplanes all my life ‘cause my parents were both pilots. My mother soloed when she was still in high school. She was 16. My dad flew since…

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They are known as “The Army’s Goodwill Ambassadors To The World”. They are The Golden Knights. It’s the Army’s only official aerial demonstration unit. The Team’s origin traces back to September 1959 when it was originally formed as the Strategic Army Corps Parachute Team. On June 1st 1961, the Team was activated formally and re-designated as the U.S. Army Parachute Team and the following year earned the nickname, The Golden Knights. The Golden Knights spend more than 230 days a year performing at air shows, state fairs, and civic events.…

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Mario Hamel is one of five pilots from The Northern Lights Aerobatic Team, based out of Montreal, Canada. The Northern Lights are this year’s headliners at Air Show 2000, being held at the Syracuse Hancock International Airport on July 8 and July 9.Taking him out from what can only be described as a hectic schedule, Mario Hamel spoke with us about The Northern Lights. Q – Mr. Hamel, how long have The Northern Lights been together? A – This is our sixth season. We’ve completed five seasons, and we’re in…

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He’s a former Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps, who now pilots the Sea Harrier at airshows in the US and Canada. His name is Art Nalls Junior we spoke with the Lt. Col. about his sea Harrier and his background in and out of the service. Q – I saw you at the Syracuse airshow (2016) and that Sea Harrier is one loud plane! A – (Laughs) yeah. Q – Do you have to wear earplugs of any Kind? A – All jet pilots wear a helmet…

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For over 30 years now, Jim Parker has delighted millions with his low-level aerobatics. Whether it’s headlining at a major airshow or performing at a special event, Jim and his Pitts S-25, Yak 55m and Salto Sailplane have established a level of aerobatic entertainment that is unrivaled. A resident of the Warren/Sugarbush, Vermont area, Jim’s business stays close to his love of flying—–including air-show productions, performing, and sales and service of aerobatic and special-purpose aircraft which includes the Aviatt Pitts, Yak 55m, and the 2-place Yak 54. Q – Jim,…

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He’s been flying for 32 years with more than 10,000 flying hours. He’s a former corporate and airline pilot. He was inspired to take up flying after seeing a performance by the US Navy Blue Angels. The man we are talking about is Mr. Ken Rieder. Ken spoke with us about his career in aviation. Q – Is it safer to perform in an experimental aircraft as you do as opposed to a plane that’s been refurbished or rebuilt? A – Wow! That’s a question I’ve never received before. Q…

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