Osan Air Base opens doors to local community for first air show in six years

Following a pause of some six years in light of the global pandemic, the Osan Air Base has opened its doors to the public for a showcase that shared its spectacular aerial capabilities.

Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung was there.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon performs advanced flight maneuvers, cutting through the rain-soaked sky.

After a six-year pause, since the COVID-19 pandemic paused the tradition, Osan Air Base reopened its doors to the public over the weekend.

Playing a critical role defending not just South Korea but also the Pacific region, this premier U.S. air base finally enjoyed the chance to welcome locals to showcase its capabilities.

"This air show is, in many ways, a chance for us to say thank you for the hospitality and all the support we receive from the city of Pyeongtaek and the country of South Korea."

Team Osan prepared a lot for people to see, but one of the most significant moments attendees could perhaps have enjoyed was this:

"Fitting with the air show's theme, "Respect the past and forge the future," the show offered a final display in Korea of the A-10 Thunderbolt, which is in the process of phased withdrawal."

The 51st Fighter Wing is the last overseas unit operating the A-10.

Nicknamed Warthog, the aircraft will depart by the end of the fiscal year 2025.

As part of a historic sendoff, visitors were able to witness static displays and weapon load demonstration.

"For my squadron, we focused on close air support combat, search and rescue, and forward air control, and airborne missions, among others that are specific to Korea. And the significance of that is, as mentioned earlier, is that we, you know, take a deep pride in the mission of defending Korea."

Another particularly special performance would be this year's final public performance of the Pacific Air Force's F-16 Demonstration Team, based out of Misawa Air Base, Japan.

"I'm super honored that this is going to be our last show here in Korea, and then I get to do it as well."

While letting the public experience the spirit of "Fight Tonight" firsthand, the air base was able to express gratitude to the local Korean community in its own way.

Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News, Pyeongtaek.