Overview

• Two Sun-Times photographers flew alongside the Golden Knights from Gary, Indiana to Chicago at 12,500 feet to document their flag jump and formation maneuvers over Lake Michigan.
• Pre-jump safety briefings and in-flight wind readings guided parachutists carrying the American flag to precise landings along Oak Street Beach.
• Safety concerns grounded the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds mid-show, prompting the postponement of the Golden Knights’ final demonstration.
• Residents near North Lake Shore Drive reported shattered windows and strong vibrations from low-altitude Thunderbird practice flights.
• The 66th Chicago Air and Water Show attracted thousands of lakefront spectators despite weather-related schedule changes.