Flying Circus Airshow Starts Flying This Weekend

Starting this Sunday, May 1 the Flying Circus Airshow will get underway in Bealeton, VA, about 1 hour south of Chantilly.  It will run each weekend until October.

The show has been in operation for almost 40 years, said Joe Callen, principle architect of the extravaganza.  “The first show took place back in 1971,” he informed me.  “It originally started out as a WWI-style barnstorming show, with Sopwith Camels and other WWI-era biplanes.  Over the years we’ve added a lot more WWII aircraft, which are easier to maintain and not as fragile.”

While some of the aircraft may have changed, the principle ingredient then and now has always been derring-do.  “The 1920s and 1930s barnstorming shows consisted not only of pilots flying planes, but skydivers and wing walkers as well – basically anything that would bring out the crowds,” he said.

The Flying Circus Aerodrome, where the circus is held, offers picnic facilities, a pavilion, a snack bar and much more for spending the afternoon.  The gates open at 11 a.m. though the show runs from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Before and after the show, those spectators willing to pay a bit more are given the opportunity to experience some of the aircraft first-hand, with options ranging from a $40 cruise in an open-cockpit plane to a $130 aerobatic thrill ride.

While the typical weekend brings about largely similar shows, with some variations due to pilot availability and other factors, the Flying Circus Aerodrome will also host some special events including scouting days, motorcycle events, a special Independence Day extravaganza and, most notably, a two-day hot air balloon festival pm Aug. 20 and 21.

Admission to watch the show is $10 for adults and $3 for children ages 3 to 12.  Special discounts exist for scout groups.

To learn more, go to flyingcircusairshow.com.

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