Pilots and aviation enthusiasts traveled from all over the world to attend this year's Sun 'n Fun Fly-In at Lakeland's Linder Regional Airport.Gary Rosier
While the week started out with grey skies and not-so-distant storms threatening to put a damper on festivities, Fun ‘n Sun 2017 was ultimately unstoppable. By Wednesday, the skies opened up over Lakeland’s Linder Regional Airport, and aviation fans of all ages were guaranteed that there would be no shortage of sun or fun. Although, anyone who neglected to pack extra sunscreen may have felt regret on Thursday morning.
This year’s airshow was bookended by appearances from Patrouille de France, the French Air Force’s aerobatic demonstration team, and the United States Navy’s Blue Angels. As such, it was only fitting that the two squadrons hooked up on Sunday to treat beachgoers in Pensacola to a colorful surprise.
But there was so much more to see and appreciate at Sun ‘n Fun 2017, and we’re glad that Flying friend, photographer and aviation enthusiast Gary Rosier was around to capture most of the awesome planes and performances.
When the sun came out on Wednesday, keeping cool was a top priority for everyone.Gary RosierSome people basically moved in for the week.Gary RosierA wide variety of personal aircraft was on display at Sun ‘n Fun.Gary RosierThe open cockpit probably felt great when temperatures hit the mid-90s.Gary RosierFlorida Gators fans probably loved this custom paint job. FSU and SEC fans? Not as much.Gary RosierPlenty of helicopters were on display as well, including the original Batcopter from the 1960s Batman TV series.Gary RosierFans could get out of the sun and experience a lesson in Florida’s aviation history.Gary RosierSome airplanes simply get better with age.Gary RosierThe Spirit of 46 II looked spectacular.Gary RosierA timeless classic.Gary RosierUp close with the Spirit of Freedom.Gary RosierYou have to keep the seats cool.Gary RosierThe Ace Maker II had fans all-in.Gary RosierThe C-47 nicknamed “Placid Lassie” dropped paratroopers into France during the D-Day invasion.Gary RosierA little R&R before hitting the sky.Gary RosierThis plane might be a little bouncy.Gary RosierA glorious sight.Gary RosierSlightly intimidating, but mostly it’s just really cool.Gary RosierEveryone loves a good pun.Gary RosierThe history on display was captivating.Gary RosierThe P51-D Mustangs were a prime attraction.Gary RosierEveryone can enjoy this view.Gary RosierThe B25-H Mitchell medium bomber famously known as “Barbie III.”Gary RosierThe P51-D Mustangs also put on a heck of a show.Gary RosierEspecially when they were joined by the B-25 known as “Panchito.”Gary RosierThe AeroShell Aerobatic team also put on a spectacular show.Gary RosierAnd the Blue Angels dazzled as always.Gary RosierDoing tricks that make fans of all ages excited (and probably a little nervous).Gary RosierDon’t try this at your home airport.Gary RosierOr this.Gary Rosier
