Duluth Show Posts Record- Breaking Attendance

Minnesota's largest air show produced record-setting attendance during its post-pandemic return in late June.

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels were among the high-flying crowd-pleasers this year at the Duluth Air and Aviation Expo.

"In 20 years, this was the most challenging show I've ever worked on," said Ryan Kern, airshow president and founder.

Organizers developed four COVID-19- related planning contingencies to meet state and federal health requirements.

Saturday set a one-day show attendance record. "We know a record was set because of the overhead photos that were taken from the Red Bull helicopter that was performing in the show," Kern said. "Our parking configuration also provided a clue. Our Green Lot was at 98% capacity, and normally, it's only sitting at 60%. There was a lot more demand this year."

People could use general admission tickets either day, and with rain forecast Sunday, organizers expected large numbers the first day.

Next year, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds return after a four-year absence.

Shockwave, the jet-powered truck will also perform, along with Mike Wiskus.

The 2022 Duluth Air and Aviation Expo dates are Saturday and Sunday, July 16-17.

"We are currently working on six performer contracts for next year," Kern confirmed. "Approximately 90% of our line-up will be done Sept. 1. Tickets for 2022 should go on sale sometime in November," he added.