Date: January 6-7, 2007
Location: Cable, California
Story by: Kevin Whitehead
Photography by: Kevin Whitehead

Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains in Upland, California, the Cable Airport does not, at first glance, appear to be the likely location for an airshow, much less the traditional host of the first scheduled U.S. show each year. In fact, if distracted, one could easily drive past this venue without notice, despite its claim as the world’s largest family-owned public airport. Constructed in 1945, Cable has managed to retain some of its original infrastructure and charm, as evidenced by the terminal building and control tower, which are still in use today. It is this small town return-to-yesteryear aura that makes the airshow experience at Cable something special.

The 32nd annual Cable Airport airshow was held on January 6 and 7, 2007 and featured a well-rounded lineup of aircraft and performers from the greater Los Angles area and beyond. A small paid crowd of a few thousand enjoyed numerous acts such as Dr. Frank Donnelly demonstrating his brand of 1950’s “old time" aerobatics in his 1946 T-Cart. Also well known in the airshow community, Dan Buchanan delighted his fans with maneuvers and pyrotechnic displays in his tow-launched hang glider. Performing twice daily were Cable’s own Rob Harrison aka The Tumbling Bear in his trademark bright yellow Zlin 50LX as well as Doug Jardine in his Sukhoi 26. Rounding out the performances, no less than three skydiving teams performed for the crowd throughout each day.

Beyond the headline aerobatic performers were several unique aircraft on static display and in the air. T28As, SNJ-6s, a variety of privately owned civil aircraft, and a B25 from nearby Chino Airport flew unbelievably low-level full throttle passes just above the runway. For those interested in aviation photography, these flybys provided unique photo opportunities due to the intimate atmosphere at Cable.

Any airshow afficionado looking for an easily accessible venue with a small town atmosphere will find a trip to this annual event well worthwhile.

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