Photo credit: Provided to The Permian Press

What happened: The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) High Sky Wing wrapped up its 35th annual AIRSHO Sunday, Sept. 13, at Midland International Air and Space Port. This year’s show saluted Vietnam War veterans, bringing Vietnam- and World War II-era aircraft to Midland along with the AIRSHO debut of an F-104 Starfighter from Starfighters Space.

Saturday’s flying was cut short after a CAF aircraft’s nose gear collapsed during landing. The runway was closed while crews cleared debris, and organizers determined there wasn’t enough time to safely resume flying before the show’s FAA-approved flight window ended. No injuries were reported, and the FAA is investigating. Sunday’s AIRSHO continued as scheduled.

The big picture: The weekend’s Vietnam tribute brought aircraft representing multiple eras of military aviation together, with the F-104 Starfighter making its first appearance at AIRSHO. Visitors could see aircraft both in the air and up close on the bomber and fighter ramps, along with AIRSHO’s living-history displays and other activities throughout the grounds.

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Friday, Sept. 11, was reserved for local students and individuals with special needs before AIRSHO opened to the public on Saturday and Sunday.