You’ve likely already noticed increased air traffic this week as planes arrive in Billings for the Yellowstone International Air Show. We can expect to hear these sounds more frequently as practice takes place on Thursday and Friday, and again during the show on Saturday and Sunday. The show also includes pyrotechnics, so brace yourselves to hear a few loud booms when the show gets started on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m., then again later in the show. Please tell friends and family living near the airport this is part of the show so they can prepare and know they don’t need to call 911. Also included in this post is a map so attendees know what to expect when they arrive.
Parking can be accessed from Highway 3. Parking lots are west of the airport water tower. There will be signs and volunteers to guide drivers.
And most important of all, SAFETY! Here are a few things you can do to be air show ready:
• Wear sunblock and reapply during the event
• Stay hydrated
• Bring portable chairs and/or blankets if you have general admission tickets
• Wear comfortable shoes; event grounds range from rocky to grassy and sandy
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection from the sun
• Consider hearing protection for children or people with sensitive hearing
• Have sunglasses
• Bring a stroller, food, and drinks for babies and small children
We kindly ask everyone driving in the area during the show and practice to KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE ROAD. It will be tempting to watch the aircraft do their thing, but emergency crews have already responded to an incident on Highway 3 near the airport viewing area that was caused by a distracted driver.
Traffic accidents happen in the blink of an eye. If you’re driving around, or even walking around and want to watch the aircraft, make sure you do it in a safe spot.
Drivers were attracted to Highway 3 yesterday during practice and began pulling onto the shoulder of Highway 3. This is NOT a safe spot to stop and watch. Shoulders should only be used if there is an emergency. Stopping on the shoulder creates a traffic hazard.
We’ve also gotten questions about rerouting traffic on Hwy 3 during Saturday and Sunday’s closure from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Alkali Creek Road can be used to get into/out of Billings. Semi-trucks have been directed to reroute through Roundup.
Large gatherings usually weaken cell phone signals. If you plan to attend the air show, create a plan or a meeting place to reunite if you get separated from friends and family members.
The parking lots for the air show are large. Take note of your parking spot before walking away by either dropping a pin on your phone’s map app, or taking a photo and writing down a detailed description.
Thank you everyone and have a fun and safe weekend!