Please forgive me in advance for the nerding..

Went to the Abbotsford International Airshow yesterday while Liz was at Anime Evolution (I bought a ticket to that too, but haven’t been making as good use as her :)

The drive there was incredibly slow in parts, despite being on the Trans-Canada highway, and I think that (and the associated return trip) make the longest drive I’ve ever done by myself. But my trusty steed, the Prius and my iPod kept me company.

I slip’ed and slop’ed, but not slapped. I don’t think I got any permanent damage, and the sunscreen seems to have done the trick. Just for reference, spending 4 hours in 40 degree heat on a black runway is.. something to only do in situations like this, where there is planespotting joy to be had..

So, first, the big list of what I went inside and oooed and aaahed at:

• Canadian Forces CC-150 Polaris (Airbus A310) (15004)
• Canadian Forces CC17 (702)
• USAF C-17 Globemaster (06-6162)
• USAF C-5 Galaxy (68-0216)
• USAF KC10 Extender (DC-10) (86-0031)
• USAF KC135R (Boeing 707) (62-3521)

Also on display was one of ELINT KC135Rs, some C130s, some A10 Thunderbolts, a SH-3 Skyking and a Eurocopter. In support of the airshow, there were another 2 CC17s, and a USAF C-17 parked in the area.

There were also displays setup from Canadian Forces, the Abbotsford Police and the RCMP Lower Mainland Hostage Rescue Team. Showing typical restraint, they had their guns on display for people to hold, with trigger and mag locks. So I got to hold a M-16, MP5, Remington Shotgun, Taser and a 9mm S&W 5946. I’m a boy. Also had a chat with a Mountie from their traffic safety division who had a daughter going to Curtin. Hah.

Another impressive part of the airshow was actually the stuff in the air. Who would have thought! Like these guys:

More photos on my flickr. I’m glad I bought the 100-400mm lens. It’s good for stuff like this for sure :)