Blue Angels, Thunderbirds to headline free NAS Jacksonville air show

The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds will headline a free air show Oct. 17-18 at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, where organizers expect large crowds and traffic delays.The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, is returning to NAS Jacksonville. The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, will perform at the show for the first time. The Blue Angels are scheduled for a 3 p.m. performance both days, weather permitting, as the show’s grand finale.Gates open at 9 a.m., and performances begin at 11 a.m. Admission and parking are free, and tickets are not required. All visitors must enter through the Allegheny Gate and will not be allowed south of Yorktown Avenue. People with authorized base access may use the Birmingham Gate for regular business but will not have access to the flight line.The U.S. Air Force C-17 East Coast Demo Team will demonstrate the tactical and aerial capabilities of its C-17 Globemaster III, nicknamed Moose. Other performers include