El Centro festival of flight returns

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The naval air facility El Centro Festival of Flight is back in person today after a two year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the winter home of the Blue Angels, the Naval Air Facility El Centro Festival of Flight is back for the 52nd year.

The airshow features a variety of military and civilian flight performances that represent the flying they do at the pearl of the desert.

The flight line will also feature static displays of past and present aircraft.

Spectator, Denmark Villa, came from Escondido to El Centro to take photos of the planes.

“I think more or less the planes but also my side hobby is photography and I love shooting airplanes,” said Villa.

Kristopher Haugh, Naval Air Facility public affairs officer says he’s excited to have the airshow back in person.

“This is the first time in two years that we’ve has people come out to the base and enjoy this. Gates opened at 10 o’clock and our flying is going to start at about 12:30, we have a lot of great acts,” said Haugh.

At the airshow, spectators can also see planes up close and personal, as well as speak to the pilots who fly them.

“So this is the E-2 Hawkeye, also known as the Hawkeye 2000, it’s airborne command and control, so we’re carrier-based. We’re here out of Point Mugu Naval Base out in Ventura,” said Jeremy Brenner, E-2 Pilot and Lieutenant.

The festival is one small way the Naval Air Facility El Centro can thank the community for their support of the base and personnel.