Atlantic City Gears Up For Largest Airshow On East Coast
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (CBS) -- With a roar that makes your heart pound, and dazzling passes to leave you staring in amazement, the Air Force Thunderbirds have brought thunder back to the Atlantic City boardwalk.
Spectators got a chance to see routines on practice day before the 14th Annual Atlantic City Airshow on Wednesday. "I'm just enjoying myself. This is my first time being here," said Rob Giles, a visitor to Atlantic City.
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Giles, a veteran, is just one of an estimated 400,000 people who visit Atlantic City and nearby towns to watch the Air Show. It's put on by the Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce which estimates the show pumps about $200 million into the local economy.
"That means it's gas, it's dining, it's all the retail in addition to the guests of the casinos," said Joe Kelly, the president of the Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce.
The Airshow is purposefully scheduled mid-week to bring an extra boost. It features demonstrations from each branch of the military, as well as aerobatic pilots like 3-time World Champion Rob Holland.
Atlantic city has spent months planning for heavy traffic, big crowds and high heat. Extra police and EMT's will be on hand as well as cooling stations available to the public.
If you plan to be one of the 400,000 or so people to take in the Airshow, safety officials say to leave the alcohol and drink with caffeine at home, but do bring lots of water and sunscreen.