Large weekend crowds expected for air show

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Whether you’re going to Pittsburgh International Airport or the nearby Wings Over Pittsburgh air show this weekend, the best advice is to leave a little early and be patient.

The free air show returns for the first time in six years at the 911th Airlift Wing in Moon and large crowds are expected. The show, open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, will feature the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds precision flying team, along with other airborne acts and ground displays.

Interstate 376 has two major construction projects underway that restrict traffic to two lanes in each direction, but the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has no work scheduled this weekend. Exit 57 at Thorn Run Road will be closed from 2:45 to 4:15 p.m. Friday through Sunday as a result of the air show.

Free parking, with free shuttles to the air show beginning at 8:30 a.m., will be available at the following locations:

• Motorists driving outbound from Pittsburgh on Business Loop 376 will get off at Ewing Road and be directed to parking at three businesseson Cherrington Parkway.

• Inbound motorists from Beaver County on Business Loop 376 will get off at International Drive and parkat Dick’s Sporting Goods.

• All other visitors should use parking at the Port Authority parkand-ride lot on University Boulevard or the Airport Office Park on Rouser Road.

Parking for handicapped guests, volunteers, exhibitors and those with VIP tickets will be available at Airside Business Park Cargo A (Airside Drive) exit from Business Loop 376. This area is within walking distance from the show.

Visitors may bring folding lawn chairs and bags no bigger that 12by-12 inches. Larger bags must be clear plastic and the items visitors can bring are similar to items at a stadium. All guests will go through a metal detector.