BREAKING NEWS: Blue Angels complete necessary landing certification ahead of Cherry Festival
(WPBN/WGTU) — The National Cherry Festival Airshow in Traverse City faced a potential setback this year regarding the participation of the Blue Angels.
The Blue Angels expressed difficulty in locating an airfield willing to accommodate the certification of their planes’ arresting gear. This crucial gear consists of ground cables that are essential for emergency landing situations.
UpNorthLive News reporter Audrey Boucher visited Camp Grayling to investigate further. In order to host the Blue Angels at this year’s National Cherry Festival Airshow, Blue Angel Number 7 conducted tests at Camp Grayling’s airfield to certify the emergency mobile arresting gear.
Each side of the runway features two arresting gear systems connected to a large cable and hook, designed to catch and safely stop aircraft in emergency scenarios.
Jason Robinson explained, “When an aircraft engages the cable on the runway, it pulls it to the center, smoothly transitioning to a stop.”
Only one plane participated in today’s certification to ensure the system’s functionality and confirm the airfield’s suitability for emergency landings by the Blue Angels.
“What you witnessed today, captured on video, is the actual proof that the system is balanced and will operate effectively in an emergency engagement, ensuring maximum safety and efficiency in stopping aircraft over the shortest distance possible,” Robinson emphasized.
Without this certification, the Blue Angels might have been unable to participate in this year’s festival.
“The Cherry Festival organizers informed us that without securing this location — which is always a challenge — the airshow would have been at risk,” stated Col. Scott Meyers.
This marked the first time Camp Grayling was enlisted to assist with such a certification.
“We needed an airfield within a 50-mile radius of the airshow location. This year, encountering difficulties elsewhere, we volunteered to help facilitate the process here. It’s mutually beneficial,” Col. Meyers elaborated.
Col. Meyers expressed optimism about Camp Grayling becoming a permanent host location.
“When they reached out, it seemed like a great opportunity for us. Establishing a permanent arrangement would benefit both parties and support the local community,” Col. Meyers added.
“Cherry Fest attracts numerous visitors to northern Michigan, benefiting local businesses and providing great entertainment. Being a part of it here in Grayling is immensely satisfying,” Col. Meyers concluded.