For aviation enthusiasts who want more than a distant view of the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach, the American Airpower Museum is offering a unique front-row experience at Republic Airport during the Independence Day holiday weekend.
The museum’s “Legends of Airpower Warbirds” will take part in the FourLeaf Air Show on July 5 and 6, helping celebrate America’s 250th birthday while honoring the nation’s veterans and service members.
Aircraft scheduled to perform include the Douglas C-47B Skytrain, North American P-51D Mustang, Curtiss P-40M Warhawk “Flying Tiger,” Grumman TBM-3E Avenger torpedo bomber, North American AT-6D Texans and the museum’s popular red WACO biplane.
The festivities begin before the air show itself. From July 3 through July 4, visitors can watch warbird practice flights from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as pilots prepare for their Jones Beach performances, according to Air Power Spokesman Robert Salant. Flight experiences aboard select aircraft, including the Texan, WACO and C-47, will also be available.
During the air show weekend, visitors at the museum will be able to watch the aircraft depart from Hangar 3 for Jones Beach and return following their performances. The museum also offers a rare opportunity to see the Navy Blue Angels and Canadian Forces Snowbirds taking off and landing as well.
Additional attractions include views of the massive C-17 Globemaster III and aerobatic demonstrations by performers such as Aarron Deliu.
Top Gun fans will have an added reason to visit. Dream BIG Entertainment’s “Top Gun Maverick F/A-18 Experience” will be on display July 3 through July 5, allowing visitors to sit inside a full-size Navy F/A-18 cockpit, wear flight gear and take photos.
Inside Hangar 3, guests can explore an extensive collection of military aircraft, including the Grumman EA-6B Prowler, Republic RF-84 Thunderflash, Republic F-105 Thunderchief and Fairchild Republic A-10A Warthog.
Museum officials say the combination of historic aircraft, modern military aviation and family-friendly activities makes Republic Airport one of the best places to experience the FourLeaf Air Show from up close. Admission fees apply, while parking at the museum and along New Highway is free.