Florida International Air Show underway at Punta Gorda Airport

Up above, planes roared through the sky over Punta Gorda this weekend. It’s all part of the Florida International Air Show.

Pilots put on a show during the 38th annual Florida International Air Show at Punta Gorda Airport Saturday.

“These maneuvers were taught to World War II and Korean War pilots,” said Jim Record, the Geico Skytappers advance pilot. “And they’re actually taught now in current military training.”

Thousands of airplane lovers from all over the state visited the Punta Gorda Airport to watch the aircrafts soar overhead, featuring performance teams such as Geico Skytappers and the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds.

Pilots like Record love to show off the planes at the air show.

“It’s good that the people come out and see what airplanes can do,” Record said.

Along with the flips and tricks, the air show serves as inspiration for the next generation to continue flying.

“My grandparents surprised me with tickets to come because I do in the future hope to be in the Air Force and eventually become a pilot,” spectator Lillian McGowan said.

Being a role model to future pilots is something pilots such as Record take seriously. He said it’s become harder for kids to get exposure to flying.

“See, the only way the new generation has a chance to work with airplanes or see them or talk to pilots is to come to an air show,” Record said. “And that why it’s really important for us to be here.”

Record and other pilots continue to perform at air shows and leave positive impressions on future pilots. The last day for the Florida International Air Show is Sunday. Visit the air show website for more information.

“Just to talk one-on-one with them and see their experience and to like talk to them about what I want to do,” McGowan said.