Air show needs better parking

The lower turnout for this year's air show is due to several issues. Last year, the parking situation was terrible. Parking was far from the show area, and everyone had to wait in long lines for shuttles to take them. Parking needs to be as close to the show area as possible. We understand it is not always possible to get certain statics and demos out here. It is not a good idea to advertise acts that are not locked-in for the event. Many people knew the F-22 would not show up out here. It's nice to see a top demo team, but we have all seen the Blue Angels many times, and Yumans can go to El Centro if they want to see them. We love the Harrier, but we have all seen it many times. It lives here with us. We see them regularly. The F-5 flight pass is great. We also enjoy the mid-air refueling demo pass with the KC-130. The more military birds, the better. I realize with all the new construction and expansion at MCAS Yuma, it is getting more difficult to park the public near the show area. Charging people money to park in a limited special area that is closer to the show is not a good solution.

No F-22, pay-to-park, and a bad experience at last year's show were the reasons I skipped this year's show.

I support the military, and I enjoy watching airplanes. Hopefully next year some of these issues can get sorted out. I know the planning team works hard to make these shows happen. Some things are out of their control. We would have liked to see the F-35 fly at the show, but I am sure the Pentagon hasn't cleared them for that role yet.

The main focus for the 2014 show needs to be closer parking for everyone. Second priority should be good traffic control on and off the base to speed up the vehicle lines. Last but not least, more military aircraft!

Steve Rivers
Yuma