Blue Angels roar back over San Francisco Bay after Friday fog delay
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The thunderous roar of jet engines returned to San Francisco's waterfront Saturday as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels soared over the Bay, drawing thousands of spectators to Fleet Week after weather postponed Friday's performance.
For many in the crowd, the experience was about more than watching airplanes. After all, you don't just watch the Blue Angels -- you feel it.
Fans packed Marina Green and lined the shoreline as the Navy's elite flight demonstration squadron performed its trademark tight formations, high-speed passes and heart-pounding aerial maneuvers against the backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay.
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"They fly over you. Can't believe they are so close together, and they can do what they're doing. It's amazing," one spectator said.
San Francisco resident Pat Smith was among those enjoying the show.
"I love the planes. It's a good show. I like the noise," Smith said.
The much-anticipated performance came a day after low clouds and fog, known locally as "Karl," forced organizers to cancel Friday's Blue Angels demonstration.
"First of all, Karl gets a one-way ticket out of town. He can come back Monday," joked Mary Breen of the Air Show Network.
Among the returning spectators was Jennifer Flores of Oakland, who came back with her father after Friday's disappointment.
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"We were here yesterday. We saw a very quick glimpse of them, so we decided to come today and get a good look at them," Flores said.
The Blue Angels' return was especially meaningful for Fleet Week fans after the squadron was unable to perform during last year's event because of the federal government shutdown.
The Blue Angels were not the only attraction in the skies. Other aircraft thrilled the crowd throughout the day, including a United Airlines Boeing 777 flyover that showcased the Bay Area as a backdrop for aviation excellence.
"Fleet Week is truly the Super Bowl of air shows," Breen said. "Top talent, with the Blue Angels and other amazing performers, with the backdrop of the Bay. Spectacular."
When the show concluded, thousands of spectators flooded Marina Boulevard and surrounding streets, slowing traffic as attendees made their way home.
For the Viarengo family of Santa Rosa, the delays were simply part of a cherished tradition.
"It's something we've done forever. We did it as kids, now we're bringing our kids to their first air show," Melissa Viarengo said.
Many young fans left carrying Blue Angels souvenirs, but parents said the memories would last far longer.
When asked what the Blue Angels represent, Flores said her children had a simple answer: "America."
The Blue Angels are scheduled to return to the skies Sunday for the final day of the Fleet Week Air Show over San Francisco Bay.
