Pilots and aviation enthusiasts traveled from all over the world to attend this year’s Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In at Lakeland’s Linder Regional Airport.Gary Rosier
While the week started out with grey skies and not-so-distant storms threatening to put a damper on festivities, Fun 'n Sun 2017 was ultimately unstoppable. By Wednesday, the skies opened up over Lakeland's Linder Regional Airport, and aviation fans of all ages were guaranteed that there would be no shortage of sun or fun. Although, anyone who neglected to pack extra sunscreen may have felt regret on Thursday morning.
This year's airshow was bookended by appearances from Patrouille de France, the French Air Force's aerobatic demonstration team, and the United States Navy's Blue Angels. As such, it was only fitting that the two squadrons hooked up on Sunday to treat beachgoers in Pensacola to a colorful surprise.
But there was so much more to see and appreciate at Sun 'n Fun 2017, and we're glad that Flying friend, photographer and aviation enthusiast Gary Rosier was around to capture most of the awesome planes and performances.
When the sun came out on Wednesday, keeping cool was a top priority for everyone.Gary Rosier
Some people basically moved in for the week.Gary Rosier
A wide variety of personal aircraft was on display at Sun 'n Fun.Gary Rosier
The open cockpit probably felt great when temperatures hit the mid-90s.Gary Rosier
Florida Gators fans probably loved this custom paint job. FSU and SEC fans? Not as much.Gary Rosier
Plenty of helicopters were on display as well, including the original Batcopter from the 1960s Batman TV series.Gary Rosier
Fans could get out of the sun and experience a lesson in Florida's aviation history.Gary Rosier
Some airplanes simply get better with age.Gary Rosier
The Spirit of 46 II looked spectacular.Gary Rosier
A timeless classic.Gary Rosier
Up close with the Spirit of Freedom.Gary Rosier
You have to keep the seats cool.Gary Rosier
The Ace Maker II had fans all-in.Gary Rosier
The C-47 nicknamed "Placid Lassie" dropped paratroopers into France during the D-Day invasion.Gary Rosier
A little R&R before hitting the sky.Gary Rosier
This plane might be a little bouncy.Gary Rosier
A glorious sight.Gary Rosier
Slightly intimidating, but mostly it's just really cool.Gary Rosier
Everyone loves a good pun.Gary Rosier
The history on display was captivating.Gary Rosier
The P51-D Mustangs were a prime attraction.Gary Rosier
Everyone can enjoy this view.Gary Rosier
The B25-H Mitchell medium bomber famously known as "Barbie III."Gary Rosier
The P51-D Mustangs also put on a heck of a show.Gary Rosier
Especially when they were joined by the B-25 known as "Panchito."Gary Rosier
The AeroShell Aerobatic team also put on a spectacular show.Gary Rosier
And the Blue Angels dazzled as always.Gary Rosier
Doing tricks that make fans of all ages excited (and probably a little nervous).Gary Rosier
