PIREP: 2008 Red Bull Air Races Detroit
Great wrap up Jay.
I was disappointed by the announcers portraying the Red Bull pilots as
god-like and never mentioning that "real" people can and do learn to fly
every day. They had a huge crowd and a wonderful opportunity to introduce
general aviation to the masses, especially on Saturday when there was plenty
of time to kill. During the slow periods between acts or runs, something
like One Six Right or the EAA promo movie played in segments on the big
screens would have been welcome.
From a purely commercial standpoint, they missed a gigantic opportunity to
sell memorabilia to not only the thousands of ticketed spectators by not
having souvenir stands within sight of every ticket holder, but they really
missed the boat by not having souvenir stands available to the tens of
thousands of un-ticketed spectators. People literally lined the sidewalks,
the streets, and the parking garages with money to spend but nobody to take
it.
All in all, it was a great weekend. The logistics and undertaking that the
Red Bull team goes through to arrange these events is remarkable.
For those headed to OSH this year, check the schedule and be sure to catch
the Red Bull aerobatic helicopter act.... it's amazing, and one of a kind.
Jim
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