Students turn 'Top Gun' at Williamson County Regional Airport

A deafening roar came from the "world's fastest minivan" as it sped across the runway powered by a jet engine.

It was on a collision course with a low-flying stunt plane that pulled up seconds before disaster.

This was only one stunt among many this weekend at the Southern Illinois Air Show, which was held at Williamson County Regional Airport. The show included various ground displays and activities, such as a B-25 Pacific Prowler airplane flown during World War II, an aerobatic show and aircraft rides.

One of the most unique aspects of the show was the SIUC students in the Rotor Wing Association of America. These students were in charge of making sure all rules and regulations, such as timing the take-offs and landings of the various aircrafts as well as safety, were done right.

The group's faculty adviser, Charley Rodriguez, said students who volunteer for air shows are generally put in charge of small tasks, such as garbage collection. But these students are different because it takes more responsibility.

John Cotter, assistant professor in the Department of Aviation Technologies, said air shows captivate audiences because they feel and hear planes flying overhead.

"As far as spectator sports go, I think its right at the top of the ladder," he said.

At the beginning of the show, three skydivers floated through the sky, the last one flying the American flag. Heads turned upward as the National Anthem played over loudspeakers.

These activities were fun for some, and hard work for others.

Miles Bardell, a senior from Freeport studying aviation electronics specialization, and also a member of the student flight group, said this is the fourth air show he has worked.

He said the hardest part of helping is timing the planes' takeoff and landing. The smallest incident can end the whole show. He said the organization's students go through extensive safety training to prepare for the show.

"It's just a really great feeling at the end of the weekend with the successful completion of the air show," he said.

Jim Price of Marion rode in an airplane as it was pushed across the runway. He said he was impressed with the complexity of the show.

"I think for a small airport it's a darn good show," he said.