Online Staff Report

ROCKFORD– Rockford AirFest 2011 today announced that the U.S. Navy Blue Angels have canceled their headline performance.

However, the show will continue June 4 and 5 at Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) with a full slate of military and civilian performers and a variety of other activities.

The Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s high-performance aerobatic squadron, is under a “safety stand-down” imposed following a lower-than-normal maneuver at an airshow earlier this month.

The team announced today that the stand-down has forced them to cancel their appearance at Rockford AirFest.

“We are disappointed that the Blue Angels cannot attend Rockford AirFest,” said Bharat Puri, chairman of the Greater Rockford Airport Authority board of commissioners “However, this is what makes this patriotic group of individuals the best of the best. They take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their team as well as their fans. We wish they could be with us next weekend, but look forward to having them perform at Rockford AirFest in a future year.”

Rockford AirFest 2011 will still feature two military air demonstration teams, plus U.S. Army Golden Knights, the U.S. Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon and other performers.

The event will also feature a record 60 static aircraft for viewing and tours and a wide range of children’s activities and interactive displays.

“Rockford AirFest will still be an exciting weekend of great air and ground activities for the whole family to enjoy,” Puri said. “Our theme of ‘Honoring Heroes,’ which is tied to the Centennial of Naval Aviation, will continue as we celebrate our everyday heroes as well.”

Advance tickets for Rockford AirFest 2011 are on sale for $10 per adult and $5 for youth 5-12. Kids 4 and under get in for free. Tickets are available only at FlyRFD.com, at the RFD terminal and at Rockford-area Culver’s and Riverside Community Bank locations.