As you probably know, the Chicago Air & Water Show returned over the weekend treating spectators to another first full-scale show of aerial feats following a full cancellation in 2020 and a scaled-back version featuring a solo demonstration by the Navy Blue Angels in 2021.
Presented by the City of Chicago it is the largest free show of its kind in the entire country and features a variety of military and civilian performances. As ever, Chicago’s array of talented photographers were out in full force to capture the sublime spectacles in the skies above Chicago.
Some rushed to the viewing locations between Oak Street and Fullerton Avenue, some up to the city’s artificial peaks to capture the event from above, and others took to Lake Michigan to get the best views of Chicago’s formidable skyline.
Here we’ve rounded up our favorite snaps from the weekend. Scroll through these astounding photos of planes twisting, turning, darting, and weaving across the Chicago skies!
People flocked to North Avenue Beach for the best views.
This year another spectacular show included the first appearance by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds since 2018!
This stunning shot of the Thunderbirds soaring over Chicago was taken from the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center.
Can’t get enough of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying in formation!
Spot the difference! Notice how the number on the upside-down plane is the right side up?
Here they are in action!
Just one more of the Thunderbirds because what a perfect photo that is.
Black and white makes it looks even more iconic!
There were airplanes of all shapes and sizes.
This remarkable photo by Barry Butler shows Aimee “Rebel” Fielder in her F-16 Viper.
This is what this on the lake experienced!
There were both small jets and whopping mammoth military planes flying over Chicago.
This is the C17 Globemaster which came to Chicago all the way from Charleston in South Carolina for the show.
The weather certainly added to the spectacle!
Check that out for an aerial display. Red Bull does give you wings!
Composition.
Here’s a sonic boom courtesy of US Navy F18!
The U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights were once again one of the headline acts this year. This is what their planes look like.
And this is them doing their thing!
The Air Force Thunderbirds brought the love to North Avenue Beach!
Here’s the sky heart happening!
Here’s a wonderful short compilation of the 2023 Chicago Air and Water Show. Watch it sideways if you can!
[Featured image taken by Diego Levano / www.lvnstudio.com]