Press release

​Clinton Municipal Airport to Host Spectacular Fly Iowa Air Show in Celebration of 80 Years 
 
Clinton, Iowa– The Clinton Municipal Airport is proud to host this year’s Fly Iowa event, marking 80 years of aviation history with an action-packed air show unlike any seen before in Eastern Iowa. Thanks to the collaboration of numerous local businesses and community partners, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of flight, history, and high-flying entertainment. However, fundraising efforts are still underway to ensure this airshow reaches its full potential!
 
What started as an anniversary celebration has evolved into a full-scale, Vietnam-era inspired air show, featuring a remarkable lineup of aircraft and thrilling performances. Spectators will witness iconic aircraft from the Aviation Heritage Foundation featuring the Skyraider, Bird Dog, and T 28 performing simulated reconnaissance and bomb-run missions, complete with on-the-ground pyrotechnics to create the illusion of explosions beneath the aircraft. Following this, a helicopter will enter the scene, performing a simulated search-and-rescue operation for a fully immersive experience.
 
Randy Ball will perform both a day and night show with his Mig 17.  Randy W. Ball is the ONLY Unlimited DAY and NIGHT jet fighter Aerobatic pilot in North America. He’s performed more night shows in Jets than any other performer in North America airshow history.  From the second the Afterburner kicks in on his takeoff, to his signature pass down the 500 foot show line in the deep twilight light with a 30 foot afterburner flame behind him, all while only 20 feet off the ground and traveling over 600 mph.  RANDY W. BALL and his MiG-17F Has left Airshow fans and sponsors speechless for years now.
 
Aerobatic performer Eric Edgren will take to the skies, delivering both a daytime stunt show and a breathtaking nighttime performance. His night act will feature dazzling lights and smoke, leading up to an electrifying drone and fireworks display—the most extravagant feature of the event.
 
We have booked several other exciting performers.  The Trojan Phlyers, the world’s only formation aerobatic T28 team.  They have been thrilling crowds for over 25 years, with a combined 2850 horsepower the noise and smoke of the Phlyers are always a fan favorite.   Susan Dacy is one of only a few females performing airshows in a biplane, and is the only woman flying exhibition in the Super Stearman.  Michael Vaknin will bring his Extra 300 to the show, flying with precision, speed, head dazzling Gyroscopic and high G maneuvers on airshow center.  Also making an appearance will be the Vanguard squadron, a 100% ethanol powered formation aerobatic team.  Finally, Jody Gruffunder will perform in his Yak 52, which was developed and used in the Soviet Union during the 1970's as a primary trainer for the Soviet military.
 
“We are beyond excited to bring this caliber of airshow to Clinton,” said Marlana Nass. “This is not only a tribute to our airport’s rich history but also an opportunity to showcase aviation in an exciting and educational way. We are working hard to raise the remaining funds needed to make this the best air show Eastern Iowa has ever seen.”
 
Fly Iowa is a statewide aviation showcase that takes place in a different Iowa community every year, and Clinton is honored to be the 2025 host city. The event is made possible by the generous support of local businesses and community sponsors, and additional fundraising is still ongoing to enhance the experience for all attendees.
 
As part of the event’s mission to inspire future aviators, the Clinton Municipal Airport is also home to Flight Deck Aviation, a flight school dedicated to training the next generation of pilots. In partnership with Fly Iowa, scholarship opportunities are being developed to help aspiring pilots take their first steps toward a career in aviation.
 
For more details on Fly Iowa Clinton, including schedules, sponsorship opportunities, and how to contribute to fundraising efforts, visit www.clintonflyiowa.com.
 
About the Clinton Municipal Airport:
The Clinton Municipal Airport has been a cornerstone of aviation in Eastern Iowa for 80 years, providing essential services and fostering a love of flight within the community. This year’s Fly Iowa event celebrates that legacy while looking ahead to the future of aviation in Clinton.