Blue Angels deliver thrilling finale to wrap up San Francisco Fleet Week
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- All eyes were on the skies above San Francisco's waterfront Sunday as the Blue Angels capped off Fleet Week with a spectacular final air show performance.
The Navy's elite flight demonstration squadron returned for one last takeover of the Bay Area skyline, giving thousands of spectators a loud and thrilling finish to the annual celebration.
"It's my first time. Mind-blowing," said San Ramon resident Anthony Green. "Like, how they're flying parallel."
For many in the crowd, the Blue Angels' precision flying left a lasting impression.
"It's almost emotional. It's overwhelming. Great to see the display of performance," said Modesto resident Sean Gowin.
SATURDAY: Blue Angels roar back over San Francisco Bay after Friday fog delay
Gowin, a former Air Force mechanic, watched alongside his family, including his daughter, who came prepared with homemade binoculars. His aviation background gave him a different perspective on the aerial maneuvers.
"When I see them banking and turning, I cringe because they're causing a stress crack other maintenance guys are going to have to fix," Gowin joked.
Some spectators had to make a return trip after low clouds and fog disrupted views during Friday's performances.
"We were here Friday. We couldn't see it, so we came back," said Janell Gowin.
This weekend, however, clear skies prevailed as San Francisco's famous fog stayed away, allowing for nearly ideal viewing conditions.
MORE: There's more to Fleet Week than just looking up at the sky: Here's a look at SF's Fleet Fest
Also drawing attention was the Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II demonstration performed by Maj. Craig Turner, an Oakland native and UC Berkeley graduate.
"It's crazy flying over Fisherman's Wharf, where I was growing up most of my life," Turner said. "To come back and fly the F-35 in my hometown is an amazing opportunity."
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Marina Green was packed with spectators seeking a front-row seat to the action.
"We were stuck in traffic for an hour," said East Bay resident Catherine Sanchez. "We came from the East Bay to see it."
Traffic was heavy throughout the area, though transportation officials worked to avoid the gridlock seen during Fourth of July celebrations by restricting autonomous vehicles from parts of the waterfront. An attempt by ABC7 News to order a Waymo ride from the Marina area resulted in a pickup location about a 15-minute walk away.
MORE: Fleet Week visitors face parking crunch as SF pushes transit, restricts robotaxis
Despite the travel headaches and parking challenges, attendees said the experience was worth it.
"Parking is tough, but worth it. The kids love it," Gowin said.
As the Blue Angels made their final passes over the bay, the crowd soaked in the sights and sounds of one of San Francisco's most anticipated annual events.
"It almost feels like a movie," Green said. "Glad I got to experience this."
Organizers estimate that crowds of 10,000 gathered on San Francisco's Marina Green for both Saturday's and Sunday's air shows.
