There will be no military flight demonstrations at the Miramar Air Show this year. MCAS Miramar announced today the Pentagon turned down the base's request to use military planes in the show due to sequestration budget cuts.
Col. John P. Farnam, MCAS Miramar commanding officer, said in a news release:
"The DoD decision is disappointing because of the air show's long standing tradition in the San Diego community. We always enjoy hosting our neighbors and highlighting our Marines and Sailors, showcasing the amazing things they do every day. But I also understand current budget restraints and the importance of being fiscally responsible. Air show or not, I want to thank the San Diego community for always supporting us and making us feel at home."
When asked by email whether the entire Miramar Air Show was cancelled, Capt. Anton T. Semelroth, deputy of public affairs for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, wrote:
"No, ma'am. We only know that we will not be able to fly military aircraft during the air show. Whether or not we will still host the air show or some other type of event is being considered at this time."
Officials at MCAS Miramar also plan to start gearing up for the 2014 Miramar Air Show.
