Army's Golden Knights Will Also Perform May 9-10

It's a promising start for a brand-new commercial airport. Days after announcing their first scheduled airline carrier, Branson Airport officials announced Monday the United States Air Force Demonstration Squadron -- better known as the Thunderbirds -- will perform at the first ever Branson Air Show, May 9 & 10, 2009.

The Branson Air Show will highlight the grand opening weekend of the Branson Airport, the first privately financed and operated commercial service airport in the United States. Also appearing at the air show will be the US Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights.

"We are thrilled that two of the country's top precision military demonstration teams will be performing at the inaugural Branson Air Show," said Jeff Bourk, Executive Director, Branson Airport.

The Thunderbirds are the premier demonstration squadron of the most elite air and space force the world has ever known. They fly Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons, a multi-role lightweight jet fighter originally developed by General Dynamics for the United States Air Force. The famed Air Force precision flying team begins their 56th season in 2009.

The Golden Knights have been wowing audiences at air shows, competitions for 50 years. The two demonstration teams travel all over the country performing aerial demonstrations at air shows and special events, as well as competing at national and international skydiving competitions. They are the most successful US Department of Defense sports team.

"To have the Thunderbirds, and the Golden Knights, along with many other internationally famous air show acts, will surely make the Branson Air Show one of the very best in the country," said Bobbi Thompson, Event Director, Branson Air Show.

The first annual Branson Air Show will be an amazing two-day event featuring many of the top aviation performers in the nation including the AeroShell Aerobatic Team, Patty Wagstaff, John Mohr, and many more. A number of static historical aviation displays will also be featured including a Sea Fury, Lockheed Constellation "Connie", B-25, P-51 Mustang, and a Medal of Honor AC-47 Gunship.

Tickets for the Branson Air Show are available online, with Adult tickets priced at $16 for advance purchase.

FMI: www.bransonairshow.com, www.flybranson.com