The Pacific Airshow is back in Huntington Beach this weekend, though cloudy conditions on Friday and Saturday meant that attendees were able to hear the show more than they could see it.
The weather today could be more favorable than yesterday, but foggy conditions persisted into Sunday morning. The National Weather Service issued a dense fog advisory until 9 a.m. Sunday.
Today’s forecast is looking similar to the conditions that postponed many takeoffs yesterday, according to the NWS. The current forecast includes projections of “low clouds and fog clinging to the beaches into the afternoon,” as well as a 50-60% chance of reduced visibility along the coast, though conditions appear marginally better today.
The three-day lineup of jets from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, U.S. Marine Corps, and California Air National Guard, among others, won’t stay quiet to say the least, so make sure your children and pets are prepared.
You might’ve already heard the flyovers during the week, but the sky show will officially run from around 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Here’s what you need to know.
What to expect
Airshow officials said in a statement that they’re delivering on the commitment to produce a “bigger and better” experience each year.
The organizers, Code Four, will continue to operate the air show according to terms that were released earlier this year. The city of Huntington Beach signed an exclusive contract for 10 years and agreed to pay the organizers up to $7 million and waive fees for security and police.
For the eighth year of the show, aircraft will be able to stop by a temporary landing area on the beach, so don’t be surprised if you see some wings on the sand.
Tickets range from $30 for general admission to a $4,500 four-day camping experience. Ticketholders for Friday and Saturday can use their tickets Sunday on account of the weather, but the organizers have not yet made a public announcement on any possible refunds for people unable to attend Sunday and three-day ticketholders.
How to prepare
The event organizers have acknowledged it’s going to be loud, so have some earplugs or noise-canceling headphones handy — for all ages.
The city of Huntington Beach sent out a phone warning message to people living in the area urging them to have accommodations ready for those who may be “disturbed” by the noise.
So if your family members or furry friends have a hard time during events like Fourth of July, keep a close eye on them throughout the weekend.
“While the Pacific Airshow is an exciting event for the community, it’s important to remember that the loud noises and low-flying jets can be distressing for pets,” Justin Ward, with Reedy Creek Vet, said in a statement shared by the airshow.
Consider creating a quiet, comfortable space for your pets, or people, to hang out in. Specifically, one with little windows and plenty of furniture to muffle the noise.
Music, movies, and white noise machines can also help drown out some of the sounds.
Stay inside during the peak flyover periods if you can, or get your exercise and errands done early, before the airshow starts.
Officials are also asking people not to call 911 unless you have a life threatening emergency.
