Event Will Possibly Be Canceled Entirely

Despite a resolution from the San Diego City Council and evidence that shows the event actually makes money, the Pentagon is holding firm to its policy that there will be no military flight demonstrations due to sequestration and will not allow such flights at the Miramar Air Show this fall.

In a news release issued from the base, MCAS Miramar said it was informed Friday that the Department of Defense did not approve the station's request to highlight military flight demonstrations at the 2013 Miramar Air Show. The DoD decision was based on department-wide budget cuts as a result of sequestration.

"The DoD decision is disappointing because of the air show's long-standing tradition in the San Diego community. We always enjoy hosting our neighbors and highlighting our Marines and Sailors, showcasing the amazing things they do every day. But I also understand current budget restraints and the importance of being fiscally responsible. Air show or not, I want to thank the San Diego community for always supporting us and making us feel at home," said Col. John P. Farnam, MCAS Miramar commanding officer. Over the next few weeks, MCAS Miramar will explore options to host the community on the installation this year and begin planning for the 2014 Miramar Air Show.

U-T San Diego reports that a letter sent to Miramar by Rene C. Bardorf, deputy assistant secretary of defense for community and public outreach, says the Pentagon's policy on military participation in air shows this year has not changed. “In fact, no flyovers or aerial demonstrations have taken place except those in support of active duty funerals and the repatriation of remains of those formerly missing in action,” Bardorf wrote.

The letter went on to say that it did not matter that the plans for the show included only locally-based aircraft. “(T)he perception of permitting aerial demonstrations at the Miramar Air Show when similar justification was denied for the academy graduations is problematic since neither event rises to the national or international level of significance.”

Miramar officials told the paper that the show covers its costs and more through sponsorships and premium seating. Admission is free for most of the half-million people the show reportedly draws each year.

A Pentagon official told the paper that there was no financial reason to cancel the show. The person, who requested anonymity, said that it is all "very political," adding that the Obama administration is trying to lay the blame on Congress when "it's their fault."

A Miramar spokesman said that no official cancellation announcement has been made. Maj. Carl Redding said that the show could go on with the participation of civilian and foreign acts and a "robust static display," but indicated cancelling the show entirely is an option on the table.

(USMC File Image.)

FMI: www.dod.gov