Wings Over Houston 2025 Thrills Huge Crowd
Houston (November 3, 2025) - "This is the best day of my life!" exclaimed a little boy as he and his family made their way through the gates at Houston's Ellington Airport for CAF Wings Over Houston 2025.
The lad, who couldn't have been more than six or seven, summarized the feelings of tens of thousands of spectators as they streamed onto the ramp area. They were in for thrills galore at what has become one of the most memorable aerial demonstrations in the country.
Flight operations began with the dynamic skills of pilots with remote controlled aircraft that even included a model F-16. The Remax Skydiving Team then brought the flags of our nation and the State of Texas down from the sky as aerobatic superstar Mike "Spanky" Gallaway flew circles above them and the Star Spangled Banner rang out from below.
A two-thirds scale P-38 "Lightning" made several passes, followed by a demonstration of experimental aircraft, aerobatics by a pair of L-39 jets, and the high-powered capabilities of an A-4 Skyhawk. World War II military aviation was well represented, from trainers and transports to fighters and bombers.
The world famous Tora! Tora! Tora! Squadron performed a flawless execution of their Pearl Harbor reenactment, culminating in the signature "wall of fire" provided by Tora's own pyro team. The group was quite busy throughout the weekend, with simulated "bullets and bombs" adding a touch of realism to many of the military aircraft demonstrations.
The World War II segment was followed by aircraft of the Korea and Vietnam eras, including a MiG 15, an A-1 Skyraider, a forward air control "L-Bird" and three Chinook helicopters.
Not to be left out, modern commercial air travel was represented by a demonstration of the powerful but ultra-quiet Boeing 777. Corporate sponsor, United Airlines, provided the Triple Seven long-range, wide-bodied jet.
Among the highlights was the rare opportunity to see the world's only remaining airworthy B-29 Superfortress bombers. The CAF's own FIFI shared the skies, with Doc (of Friends of Doc) as they made several passes over show center, both by themselves and in formation.
Prior to the regular Saturday and Sunday shows, a separate, abbreviated one was presented on Friday for the benefit of hundreds of people with special needs from the greater Houston area. Rodeo clowns, a volunteer with a brightly colored macaw and members of the 501st Legion of Star Wars costumers were among those who gave of their time to personally entertain these special guests.
Story and Photos by Paul Cater Deaton
