Air Show Cancelled Due to Sequestration

Joint Base Charleston officials have cancelled this year's Air Expo due to the mandatory and drastic cuts to defense spending known as sequestration, according to a press release issued Monday. 

The Air Expo was originally scheduled for early June. 

"The decision to cancel our Air Expo was made shortly after we were informed the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds had cancelled their performance schedule as a consequence of sequestration," said Col. Richard McComb, Joint Base Charleston commander. "We value the patriotism and support of our community, but in light of our current fiscal challenges, commanders at all levels must make sound decisions to use resources wisely."

Before sequestration had been triggered, Joint Base officials had worked with community leaders and agencies to hold an off-base Air Expo featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds over the Charleston Harbor. The reason for the off-base event was to accommodate the on-going primary runway construction expected to be completed this July, according to the press release.

No dates for future Air Expos have been set. The Joint Base leadership team remains committed to continuing to foster the strong bonds that have existed with the Lowcountry community for many years.

Attached is a video from the 2011 Air Expo featuring the Thunderbirds.