NewsMilitary

Actions

Pre-air show controlled burn at NAS Oceana causes heavy smoke

Posted at 10:56 PM, Sep 05, 2018
and last updated 2018-09-06 17:23:52-04

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Naval Air Station Oceana conducted a pre-air show controlled burn on the field surrounding the Oceana flight line Thursday.

The controlled burn is in preparation for air show performances that feature fire. It will reduce the potential for unplanned fires that could happen during special activities being conducted during the show.

During the procedure, Virginia Beach residents were warned they may see smoke coming from the installation. Officials said the smoke is nothing to be worried about.

"Forestry comes out and helps us, and we stand by with some of our response vehicles should anything happen," said Mark Shreve, assistant Navy Fire Chief Mid-Atlantic District 3. "They pick a day when the wind is really controlled, and it’s really a controlled environment out there.”

About 250,000 spectators are expected to check out numerous flight teams.

"We're out here celebrating 75 years of aviation right here in Virginia Beach, and we want to celebrate it with all our neighbors," said Jennifer Hayes, NAS Oceana's public information's officer.

Air crews stationed at NAS Oceana will also practice air power and tactical demonstration flight routines from now until September 21.

"It might be a little louder than usual, but we want you to be happy when you come out here for the 2018 so we're doing all of this for you [spectators]," added Hayes.

The air show, which will be celebrating NAS Oceana's 75th anniversary, will take place from September 22-23. It is free and open to the public.

Related:

Sailors, first responders hold mass casualty drill to prepare for NAS Oceana Air show