The 20th annual 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

The 20th annual Apple Valley airshow, held on October 7th, 2023, was a spectacular event that delighted aviation enthusiasts and families alike. With a clear blue sky as the backdrop, the show kicked off traditionally with a skydiver descending gracefully, and the U.S. flag fluttering majestically behind them.

2023 Apple Valley Airshow

Dawn Patrol and Parachuting Team

The Dawn Patrol took over the sky with their elegant formation flying in Van’s RV aircraft. Following them, the Round Canopy Parachuting Team amazed the crowd by jumping out of the CAF Inland Empire’s Douglas C-53D Skytrooper “D-Day Doll.”

Douglas C-53D Skytrooper “D-Day Doll” at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

Aerobatic Displays

John Collver thrilled spectators with his aerobatics in the North American AT-6 Texan “War Dog”. Not to be outdone, Chuck Coleman performed extreme aerobatics in his Extra 300L, showcasing the skills he used to help train actors for the Top Gun: Maverick movie.

Chuck Coleman in Extra 300L at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

Undaunted Airshows and Other Participants

Undaunted Airshows brought their Van’s Aircraft RV7 & RV8 planes, known for their popularity among kit plane enthusiasts. Other remarkable participants included Tony Higa in his Pitts Special S1S, Torrey Ward in a Microjet, Yuichi Takagi from REDFOX Airshows in his Pitts Special S-2S, and Rob Harrison in his Czechoslovakian Zlin Z-142 trainer aircraft, nicknamed “Tumbling Bear”.

Undaunted Airshows at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

Historic and Military Aircraft

The event also featured several historic and military aircraft. The Palm Springs Air Museum showcased a Bell P-63A Kingcobra, while multiple warbirds from the Planes of Fame in Chino participated, including a General Motors TBM-3E Avenger torpedo bomber, Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless dive bomber, Vought F4U-1A Corsair fighter plane, Curtiss P-40N Warhawk fighter-bomber, North American P-51A Mustang “Miss Virginia”, and Lockheed P-38J Lightning.

Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

A definite highlight was Jason Somes flying his red MiG-17F, a former Polish Air Force Cold War fighter jet, impressing the crowd with multiple passes and afterburner demonstrations.

Jason Somes flying red MiG-17F at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

USAF A-10 Demonstration Team

The airshow culminated with Capt. Lindsay “MAD” Johnson demonstrating the capabilities of the Fairchild Republic A-10C Thunderbolt II attack aircraft. She was joined by Steven Hinton in the North American P-51D Mustang “Wee Willy II” for the crowd-favorite Air Force Heritage Flight.

Capt. Lindsay “MAD” Johnson in the Fairchild Republic A-10C Thunderbolt II at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

Additional Attractions

Beyond the aerial displays, the airshow also featured several static displays, a STEM display tent, and the NAPA Auto Parts Car Show. With easy access, free parking, various food options, and beautiful weather, the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow was a day well spent.

Cessna 195 at the 2023 Apple Valley Airshow

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