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An air show, also known as an air fair or air tattoo, is a public event where various types of aircraft are exhibited, often showcasing aerobatics demonstrations. These events can feature flying displays, static aircraft exhibits, and sometimes support military and local charities by involving community engagement. The shows vary in scale and scope, with some being large scale events that include military and civilian aircraft, as well as vendors and displays related to aviation. Air shows are not only a form of entertainment but also serve as professional venues for businesses in the aviation industry to showcase their products and services, making them essential for marketing in this competitive field.

The largest air show in terms of exhibitors and exhibit space is the Paris Air Show, held in Le Bourget, France. Following closely is the Farnborough Airshow in the UK. Notably, the Dubai Airshow and Singapore Airshow both share the rank of the third largest air show in the world. In terms of participant numbers, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in Wisconsin, USA, stands out as the largest fly-in airshow, with around 10,000 aircraft annually participating. Additionally, the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in England is recognized as the world's biggest military airshow, drawing significant attendance and showcasing military aircraft from around the globe.

Air shows are known for their thrilling displays featuring a variety of aircraft, including warbirds and modern military jets. They showcase aerobatics, which can include high-speed passes, intricate formation flying, and solo tactical displays that highlight the unique capabilities of military aircraft. Popular performer teams such as the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels and the Royal Air Force's Red Arrows often headline these events. Additionally, many shows feature special attractions like wing-walking, parachuting, and fire-fighting aircraft demonstrations. While the scale can vary, larger shows often have multiple acts throughout the day, providing a rich entertainment experience for all attendees.

The first notable modern air show was the Grande Semaine d'Aviation de la Champagne, held from August 22 to 29, 1909, in Reims, France. This pioneering event showcased multiple types of aircraft in flight and represented a culmination of early aviation enthusiasm. Prior to this, the first gathering of aviation enthusiasts took place from June 28 to July 19, 1909, at La Brayelle Airfield near Douai, France. These events helped set the stage for future air shows, which would evolve into public spectacles highlighting advancements in aviation and aeronautics.

Safety at air shows is a critical concern, primarily due to the inherent risks of flying demonstrations. While accidents are rare, there have been notable tragedies, such as the Ramstein air show disaster in 1988, which resulted in 70 fatalities, and the Sknyliv air show disaster in 2002, which claimed 77 lives. To mitigate these risks, aviation authorities implement strict guidelines regarding the distances aircraft must maintain from spectators, as well as regulations governing display maneuvers. Following major incidents like the 1952 Farnborough air show crash, which killed 31 people, new safety protocols were established, including larger separation between the audience and display aircraft. Continuous improvements and oversight by organizations such as the International Council of Air Shows help further enhance safety standards.

Air shows are incredibly diverse and vary significantly by country, influenced by local culture, aviation history, and public interest. For instance, in the United States, the air show season typically runs from March to November, encompassing various events ranging from community fairs featuring small aircraft to large military demonstrations like the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. In Japan, air shows are often hosted at Japan Air Self-Defense Force bases throughout the year, focusing on both military displays and aerobatic performances. European countries tend to have their air show seasons from late April to mid-October, with events like the Royal International Air Tattoo in the UK showcasing military capabilities. Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, countries like Australia and New Zealand generally schedule their air shows between January and March. This global variation helps highlight the unique aspects of aviation and military heritage in each region.

Military air shows serve as powerful tools for community relations and public engagement. They are often organized by air forces to express gratitude to local communities for their support, showcasing military capabilities while also fostering a sense of pride and awareness. For instance, air shows held at military bases frequently offer opportunities for the public to learn about aviation careers and engage with service members, thereby improving perceptions of the military. Moreover, these events attract significant audiences, bolstering local economies through tourism as attendees often visit nearby attractions, hotels, and restaurants. The combination of entertainment, education, and neighborhood appreciation makes military air shows critical in building lasting relationships between the armed forces and the communities in which they operate.

The 20th century marked a transformative era for air shows, evolving from simple exhibitions of flight to grand spectacles featuring advanced aviation technology and aerobatic performances. One pivotal moment was the Grande Semaine d'Aviation de la Champagne in 1909, recognized as the first international air show where multiple aircraft were on display. Post-World War I, air shows gained further popularity as war veterans showcased their skills, leading to events like the National Air Races in the United States. The introduction of jet aircraft in the 1950s drastically changed the nature of performances, allowing for more dynamic aerial displays. By the 1990s, military demonstration teams such as the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the British Red Arrows began to dominate programming, highlighting the increasing sophistication of air shows and their role in promoting national pride and technological advancement.

Air racing events, such as the Reno Air Races in Nevada, have significantly shaped air shows, introducing competitive elements that captivate crowds. These events inspired the inclusion of racing-style maneuvers and speed contests within traditional air shows, showcasing not only skill but also the limits of aircraft performance. The dynamic spectacle of fast-paced races, like those featuring the renowned Red Bull Air Race, has led to the design of air shows that highlight agility, precision, and speed. As a result, many air shows now feature elements like time trials and head-to-head races among aerobatic planes, enhancing viewer engagement and excitement. This competitive spirit enriches the air show experience, evolving it into a more thrilling and interactive event.

Historical air show accidents, including significant tragedies like the Ramstein Air Show disaster in 1988 and the Sknyliv Air Show disaster in 2002, have profoundly influenced modern safety regulations and practices. These incidents prompted a thorough re-evaluation of air show protocols across the globe, leading aviation authorities to enhance crowd control measures, increase distances between performers and spectators, and enforce stricter guidelines for both pilots and ground crews. Comprehensive risk assessments became standard prerequisites for organizing events, ensuring that safety became a fundamental focus of air show planning. Today, countries have established specific regulations regarding display maneuvers, as well as mandatory training and certification for pilots, which spearheads a commitment to safety, aiming to minimize the likelihood of accidents while preserving the thrill of aerial performances.