Airspeed - The Magazine for Aviation Photographers

A Tribute to Rob Holland B-29 Doc’s New Paint Airshow Reviews Stories From Europe and more!

Rob Tabor

LaLar

WELCOME TO THE 2025 JULY ISSUE OF AIRSPEED! Tribute to Rob Holland Jessica Ambats Bryan Turner Spencer Thornton Glenn Watson Carolyn Hinton Greg Meland Steve Serdikoff Jim Wilson Kelley Hammond Larry Grace Thunder Over Jagel Marc Schultz The Other Side of Airshows Jeff Krueger Doc’s New Paint Brett Schauf Going the Distance Kevin Hong Dyess AFB Open House Martin Miles Vertical Mission Marc Schultz A Target Rich Environment Rob Tabor

DeKevin Thornton Cris Fucci Jeff Krueger Tom Pawlesh Kevin Hong

ISAP Member’s Showcase Larry Grace Airplane Silhouettes John Ford Front Cover Rob Holland at 2023 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh waving to the crowd.

Photo by Kevin Hong / Airspeed Editor Camera: Canon R6 Mk II Lens: Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1L IS USM Shutter speed: 1/2500 ISO: 320 Exposure: f/5 RAW images processed in Adobe Photoshop Back Cover Close up of Thunderbird 6.

Photo by Rob Tabor Camera: Nikon Z9 Lens: NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S Shutter speed: 1/3200 ISO: 125 Exposure: f/4 Processed in Photoshop

Larry Grace

NEW AND RETURNING ISAP MEMBERS Michael Benton Laura Falker Stefanie Goza Robert Havens

Joseph Jenkins Ricardo Mejia Barbara Miller Dragos Munteanu

Ryan Moses Andrew Nelson Eric Renth Kurt Roth

The goal of International Society for Aviation Photography (ISAP) is to bring together our members who share a love of aviation, and want to preserve its history through their images. Through our organization, members can seek to enhance their artistic quality, advance technical knowledge, and improve safety for all areas of aviation photography while fostering professionalism, high ethical standards, and camaraderie.

ISAP continues to help our members to better their photography skills, workflow, and set up resources to help with business questions that our members have. Updates are being made to the ISAP website and member portfolio section, and we are showcasing ISAP members’ images and accomplishments on our social media pages.

The new Airspeed magazine will highlight ISAP members and their photography, experiences, and their passion for aviation from around the world.

From military and commercial aviation, you’ll be able to see it all while learning about aviation photography, post processing tips in Lightroom and Photoshop, aviation history, air show reports, aviation museums, and more. We look forward to sharing our members’ images and articles with everyone.

Enjoy this issue of Airspeed!

Sincerely, Larry Grace, ISAP President Kevin Hong, Airspeed Editor International Society for Aviation Photography www.aviationphoto.org • www.facebook.com/ISAPorg Airspeed is a periodic publication of the International Society for Aviation Photography and is used to communicate news, functions, convention information, and other information of interest on the local, regional, and national scenes. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and should not be construed as the views or opinions of the International Society for Aviation Photography.

Tribute to

rob holland Opening remarks and photo by Kevin Hong /Airspeed Editor

On April 24, 2025, aerobatic airshow pilot Rob Holland passed away while attempting to land at Langley AFB. He was a 13 consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Champion, six world Freestyle Aerobatic Champion, and the International Council of Airshows (ICAS) prestigious Art Scholl Award for Showmanship — the highest honor any airshow pilot can receive. Rob will be deeply missed and there was not a camera Rob didn’t love.

In honor of Rob Holland we asked our ISAP membership to contribute photos over the years they may have taken of Rob from events all over the world. From the International Society for Aviation Photography we dedicate this section of Airspeed to Rob and his family.

Robert (Rob) Joseph Holland Jr. of Nashua, NH, and formerly of Norton, MA, passed away on April 24, 2025, at the age of 50. Born in Norwood, MA, on May 30th, 1974, Rob was raised in Norton, attended Coyle Cassidy High School in Taunton, MA, later graduating Daniel Webster College in New Hampshire in 1997, earning his BS degree in Aviation Management and Aviation Flight Operations.

Rob was predeceased by his grandmother, Ann Holland, and his aunt, Dale O’Neill. He is survived by his devoted and loving parents, Robert and Cheryl Holland; his sister, Marybeth Holland Unsworth, and her husband, Andrew Unsworth; and his cherished nephew and niece, Luke and Stella Unsworth. Rob also leaves behind his cousin, Kelly O’Neill; his aunts, Carolyn Hall and Lois Hutchinson along with many other dear cousins and friends; the love of his life, Jennifer Vukovic; and their beloved dog, Buddy.

Rob’s early focus of aeronautics would eventually transform him from student to professional, where his love for flying would set in motion one of the most storied and illustrious careers in aviation history.

As a young boy, Rob’s interest in flying began when his loving parents, Robert Holland Sr. and Cheryl Holland, would take him to military airshows, the very shows Rob would later go on to headline himself. Even at an early age, Rob showed an acute awareness for the maneuvers these talented pilots would execute. These early airshows and the influential memories they would bring, would help broaden this pilot’s brilliant mind for years to come.

Following his pilot certification, Rob jumped at any opportunity to fly and strengthen his aviation credentials, gaining well over 15,000 flight hours and flying in over 180 different types of aircraft throughout his unparalleled career. Before becoming a legendary pilot however, Rob cut his teeth flying any aircraft he could get his hands on. Initially as a flight instructor for his dear friend and flight legend Mike Goulian, Rob went on to pilot Banner and Ferry planes on the Cape, he flew private and corporate jets for clients, flying also for Commercial and Commuter planes.

As appreciative as Rob was for these opportunities, he knew his potential was meant for a different form of piloting, one that he would help revolutionize, as one of the most creative and innovative aviators the world has ever seen.

Rob’s independent journey began when he founded his own flight academy, Aerial Advantage Aviation. It was there where Rob would have the creative flexibility to put his own dreams from paper, to plane, to blue sky.

In 2002, Rob became an active participant in airshows around the country, and in 2007, Rob would acquire an MX airplane, a stateof-the-art aircraft, that would finally align with his way of creative thinking, and one which would allow him the ability to test any limits, as only Rob could. As pilot and plane became an instant match, Rob’s place in history would soon be cemented. Over the course of the last two and a half decades, Rob became one of the most decorated pilots, and arguably the greatest of all time in his field.

His accolades include: • 13x Consecutive US National Champion (Unlimited) • 14x US National Freestyle Champion • 6x World Freestyle Champion • 10x US Unlimited National Team Member • Awarded over 38 National and International Medals • Named Honorary Blue Angel • Art Scholl Award for Sportsmanship • Honorary Canadian Snowbird • The driving force to secure the 2026 World Aerobatic Championships for Batavia, NY, a major achievement for the sport in the U.S. But perhaps his proudest moment was being named as an Honorary Blue Angel in 2019, a rare and prestigious honor bestowed upon very few individuals who have made significant, selfless contributions to the Blue Angels team and its mission.

If he wasn’t flying however, Rob would have a guitar in his hands, maybe even one of the many he built himself. Like flying, music came naturally, like the guitar had always been a part of him. He could play for hours, always bringing the same dedication and care he gave to everything that mattered most to him. He didn’t play for anyone else; he played because it brought him joy and peace, and because it was home.

While Rob’s piloting career is considered unequaled, it cannot hold a candle to who he was as a person. His contributions and efforts to both public and private life were never-ending, and he always found a way to make “it” happen when someone was in need, because that’s who Rob was. As a friend and colleague, there was no equal. As a cousin, uncle, Godfather, and brother-in-law, he spared no expense.

As a loving life partner, he was all in. And as a cherished brother and loyal son, he was…their Rob. Rob’s legacy will be cast by his accolades and awards, but for those that knew him best, he will be remembered by what he did behind the scenes. The coaching, the training, the never-ending positive support.

Rob didn’t just fly for himself, he flew as a champion and advocate of aviation, with a deep commitment to safety. What he learned himself, he helped teach by example to those looking to broaden their horizons.

The week of his passing, hundreds upon thousands of people gathered in Virginia to honor and mourn Rob and the efforts he’s made to his field, and to their lives. Story after story flooded in, not only of his flying acumen and ability, but of his character and the pilots he helped for the last 25 years. As a student and teacher, he embraced the art of aviation, and the strategies and science behind it.

Rob’s family meant the world to him, and he also shared a beautiful relationship with Jennifer filled with joy, laughter, and deep love.

Their happiest moments were anywhere they were together and with their loved ones.

Donations can be made to www.airshowfoundation.org/support Choose: Rob Holland Memorial – Support for the U.S. National Aerobatic Championships

JESSICA AMBATS

Jessica Ambats

Jessica Ambats

Jessica Ambats

BRYAN TURNER

Bryan Turner

DEKEVIN THORNTON

SPENCER THORNTON

GLENN WATSON

Glenn Watson

Glenn Watson

Glenn Watson

Glenn Watson

Glenn Watson

Glenn Watson

CRIS FUCCI

Our last show with Rob was the Southernmost Air Spectacular 2025 in Key West, Florida. Watching him flying upside down next to Fat Albert and giving us a private airshow along with Mike Goulian before our jump was incredible. And the formation fly-by with Bert followed by a Rob Holland teaser made us stop and watch in awe. Knowing that we would enjoy that view multiple times each year was something we looked forward to every airshow season. Having Rob circle the U.S. flag jumper to start a show was always a special treat. We made plans to fly in his two-seater and do some aerobatics in Pease, New Hampshire in September during his home airshow, having no idea that was the last time we would see him. I do not remember when we did our first show together, it just seems like we had been working

with Rob forever. We were blessed to have known and worked with a person whose skill as an aviator was unmatched, but more importantly, he was a dear friend. His talents in the air were far surpassed by his humility and presence as a person. I always smile when I think of an airshow party, with performers dressed up in their flight suits and mingling with the sponsors, and this unassuming tall guy hanging out in cargo shorts and flip flops. And yet, all the world-class performers were talking to him and listening intently. Our new teammates would ask, “who’s that guy?” I would just laugh and say, “the best aerobatic pilot in the world!” Blue Skies, Rob Holland. You will fly with us forever, and we will always remember to “fly good, don’t suck.”

Cris Fucci U.S. Special Operations Command – Para-Commandos

Cris Fucci

CAROLYN HINTON

Carolyn Hinton

GREG MELAND

Greg Meland

Greg Meland

Greg Meland

JEFF KRUEGER

STEVE SERDIKOFF Rob Holland in his MXS-RH taken from Kevin Coleman’s Bonanza in Shreveport, LA, March 16, 2015. Nikon D750 and Nikon 24-120 f4 set at 120mm, 1/80th of a second @f10, ISO125, shutter priority, matrix metering.

This image was taken around 6:30PM, so about an hour before sunset.

We used a large lake as a backdrop. With the sun behind us, the water appeared black, providing a nice uncluttered background to highlight the golden glow on the propeller. This was my first major shoot with the new D750 and while it gives up resolution to the D800 family, it has every bit the tonal range the D800s have (probably a tiny bit more) with exceptionally low noise. The autofocus performance is the best I’ve ever used.

Steve Serdikoff

From left to right; Stephen Fiegel in an SNJ-5, Gene Soucy in his Grumman Showcat, Rob Holland in his MXS-RH, and Bill Stein is his Zivko Edge 540. Taken over Southeastern PA on August 24, 2014.

Nikon D7100 and Nikon 16-85 f3.5-5.6 set at 48mm (full frame 72mm), 1/320th of a second @ f11, ISO400, shutter priority, matrix metering. The photo plane was the Misty Blues All Woman Skydiving Team’s Cessna 182 flown by Amy Kayote Miyajima.

The tricky thing about this shoot was sitting on the floor of the Cessna 182 next to the open door and visually fitting the formation into the space between the wing above and the wing strut footstep below.

We’d originally intended a deep vertical stack, but the photo-ship made that shot impossible, so I positioned the aircraft into longer, flatter stack. It takes time to get four very different airplanes into position, but with skilled pilots, eventually the formation pops into place. I’ve learned not to start heaping positioning commands on the pilots until they’ve had a chance to set themselves in formation and find the visual cues necessary to precisely hold position.

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

Steve Serdikoff

JIM WILSON / ISAP VICE PRESIDENT

Jim Wilson

TOM PAWLESH

Tom Pawlesh

Tom Pawlesh

KELLEY HAMMOND

Kelley Hammond

Kelley Hammond

Kelley Hammond

LARRY GRACE / ISAP PRESIDENT

Larry Grace

Larry Grace

Larry Grace

KEVIN HONG / AIRSPEED EDITOR

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Impressions of a pilot

by Gary Claude Stoker

Flight is freedom in its purest form, To dance with the clouds which follow a storm; To roll and glide, to wheel and spin, To feel the joy that swells within.

To leave the earth with its troubles and fly, And know the warmth of a clear spring sky; Then back to earth at the end of the day, Released from the tensions which melted away.

Should my end come while I am in flight, Whether brightest day or darkest night; Spare me no pity and shrug off the pain, Secure in the knowledge that I’d do it again.

For each of us is created to die, And within me I know, I was born to fly.

Kevin Hong

Thunder Over Jagel Article and photos by Marc Schultz

Gate Guardians: Republic RF-84F Thunderflash EA-251

November visit to Tactical Air Force Wing 51 “Immelmann” – Insights into Modern Aerial Reconnaissance A mild November day in northern Germany: Traditionally, the gray autumn month isn’t the first choice for a visit to a military airbase in Central Europe. Yet, on November 12, 2024, the weather gods smiled a bit more than usual at this time of the year. Under almost ideal conditions, I had the opportunity for a close-up look into Tactical Air Force Wing 51 “Immelmann” (TaktLwG 51 “I”) in Jagel, SchleswigHolstein – an impressive insight into the operations of one of the German Air Force’s most versatile units.

reconnaissance wings 51 and 52, the unit has since played a pivotal role in aerial reconnaissance within the Bundeswehr. Today, it is the sole wing capable of manned and unmanned tactical reconnaissance and a trailblazer in maritime air operations, a role it has undertaken since 2005.

History and Missions of the Wing TaktLwG 51 “I” has a storied history. Founded in 1993 from the remnants of the former Naval Air Forces and the illustrious

On October 10, 2024, a third flying squadron was reactivated. Initially intended to operate Northrop Grumman RQ-4 reconnaissance drones, the squadron’s role was reassigned after certification processes for

In early April 2017, following the decommissioning of the German Air Force Flying Training Center (FlgAusbZLw) in Holloman, a fourth flying squadron was established. This expansion increased the Tornado fleet by 15 aircraft, totaling 39 operational jets.

Marc Schultz

Lockheed F-104 Starfighter 23+81. Both aircraft symbolize the squadron’s rich history.

the drones failed to conclude in 2013 and again in 2020. Starting in 2027, three Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft will take on the role of airborne signals intelligence and reconnaissance under the project name PEGASUS. At the time of my visit in November 2024, the unit boasts an impressive arsenal with its 39 Panavia Tornados in IDS, ECR, and RECCE

variants, coupled with cutting-edge technology such as digital optical reconnaissance pods and leased drones like the German Heron TP, which has - in comparison to the standard IAI variant - an improved sensoric system. Starting in 2027, its expertise will expand further with the PEGASUS project.

Up Close: Tornado Operations in Jagel Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 1 PM at Schleswig Air Base. Oberleutnant Tobias Ley, the wing’s press officer, welcomes me at the base’s main gate. Our destination: one of the many shelters where technical ground crews are already preparing Tornado aircraft for their afternoon mission over the North and Baltic Sea. A total of six aircraft are scheduled for training operations on that afternoon. The technical crew usually consists of two highly trained aviation mechanics per Tornado aircraft. And it’s quite impressive to see how skillfully the two specialists get the complex weapons system ready for the upcoming sortie.

After the arrival of pilots and weapons systems officers, preparations for the 6-ship group launch proceed seamlessly and efficiently.

Soon the power of the reconnaissance aircraft becomes unmistakably audible: the characteristic roar of the Turbo-Union RB199 engines fills the air during startup. Equipped with state-of-the-art reconnaissance systems, these aircraft are primed to collect critical tactical data swiftly and reliably, even during planned training scenarios involving extreme 150ft low-altitude flights. What impresses me most is the precision teamwork between cockpit and technical personnel – a crucial factor in a potential real-world scenario.

Marc Schultz Crew Arrival: Pilot and WSO (Weapons System Officer) are taking over the aircraft from the technical crew.

Finally, the afternoon sun has broken through the overcast sky, providing almost perfect photo conditions during the shelter roll-out and final pre-flight preparations at the “Last Chance” location.

Aerial Reconnaissance: Past and Present The wing’s strength has always been its reconnaissance capabilities.

Whether over the former Yugoslavia, in Afghanistan, or as part of current international missions like MINUSMA in Mali, TaktLwG 51 “I” Tornados and unmanned systems have consistently proven their worth.

The German Heron TP drone, for instance, provides not only real-time data but also excels in long-duration missions. These capabilities make the wing indispensable for multinational exercises like the NATO Tiger Meet, which it most recently hosted in 2024, and the large-scale “Air Defender 23” exercise.

A Unit Rooted in Tradition and Innovation The fusion of tradition and innovation is ever-present at TaktLwG 51 “I.” The wing’s emblem – a panther – symbolizes not only the historical connection to its predecessor units but also the strength and precision that define this unit. At the same time, the wing remains

forward-looking: new systems like PEGASUS and the planned introduction of additional UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) ensure that Jagel will continue to play a central role in the German Air Force in the years to come.

A Fascinating Insight Experience My visit to Tactical Air Force Wing 51 “Immelmann” offered a fascinating insight view into the world of military aerial reconnaissance.

Beyond the technical precision and readiness of the Tornados, it was the professionalism of the servicemen and women that left a lasting impression. Jagel is not only a site of historical significance but also a symbol of a modern and highly capable LUFTWAFFE. Camera Gear All shots in this feature were taken with NIKON Z6 and Z5 cameras, mounted with NIKKOR Z 24 - 120mm f/4 and NIKKOR Z 70 - 200mm f/2.8.

Finally, my special thanks goes to First Lieutenant Tobias Ley for his outstanding support during this remarkable base visit.

Marc Schultz Roll Out: ECR Tornado 46+51 after leaving the shelter position.

Taxi Time: ECR Tornado 46+32 has just left its shelter position and is heading toward the “last chance” check.

Marc Schultz

Almost ready to go: Take-off clearance is imminent as these two ECR Tornado are lining up on the runway.

Marc Schultz

Full AB: ECR Tornado 46+55 under full afterburner, clearing Jagel’s runway.

Marc Schultz

Mission completed: A moody and beautiful evening sky, combined with a fascinating aircraft provides an excellent photographic layout.

Marc Schultz

The Other Side of Airshows Article and photos by Jeff Krueger

A very close friend, and accomplished photographer has, for the past I don’t know how many years, pushed me to look beyond the aircraft at an airshow and learn to take a photo that tells a story about the event.

I, like most aviation photographers focus on the action in the air as well as aircraft on the ground.

Over the last few years, I’ve tried to spend more time documenting all those other photo opportunities around the shows. I’ve worked on capturing pilots and ground crew, not just their aircraft. The excitement of the crowds, especially children and families. There is so much that goes on beyond what’s in the air.

It’s amazing how many diverse things are part of an airshow.

As photographers, we just have to open the blinders a bit and look for “the story” shot or shots. It’s still hard for me to take my eyes off the action in the air and the static aircraft photo ops around every airshow.

But I’m learning that there is plenty of time to cover everything if you keep your eyes open to what is all around you.

The fun and excitement of the fans and participants can really open up an opportunity to capture the whole airshow experience. Trust me, you will also be able to get those action shots in the air.

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Jeff Krueger

Doc’s new paint Article and photos by Brett Schauf

The 2025 flight season is B-29 DOC’s ninth season on tour. This year DOC will be in 33 cities across 19 states, stretching from California to New York, and Wisconsin to Texas, and will wrap up the 2025 tour season in Florida and Georgia. For the most current list of tour stops and ride flight opportunities, please visit www.b29doc.com

test aircraft. These faded markings were still visible when Tony Mazzolini and his team rescued the bomber from the Mojave Desert to begin the restoration process. DOC’s team added the restoration markings during this past winter maintenance period to more accurately showcase DOC’s service history.

One noticeable difference this year is the addition of red chin and fuselage stripes on DOC. While serving out of Griffiss AFB in 1951, these distinctive markings were added to denote the roll as calibration

In addition to the stripes an U.S. Air Defense Command patch was added, as well as two decals paying homage to Boeing Wichita.

B-29 DOC with new fuselage stripes flying over Farmingdale, NY.

Chin stripe - A new chin stripe was added to B-29 Doc during this years winter maintenance to more closely replicate DOC’s service history.

Brett Schauf

Brett Schauf B-29 DOC with new wing markings and fuselage stripes. Also highlighting the new paint stripes on the nose doors.

Going the distance!

THE SHORTEST WINS

Article and photos by Kevin Hong / Airspeed Editor

I talked to a friend of mine in Louisiana and asked if I could get a couple of CAF planes to a National Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) competition in Jennings, LA. We worked out the details and headed down there since I have never been to one of their events. What sold me was when he said you’re going to love it. They do a crawfish boil and you just walk outside the hotel to the event. He was absolutely right about both.

Now the only STOL competition I’ve seen was the STOL drag racing at Reno and they are definitely not the same. The National STOL competition is all about a total score from the shortest distance taking off and landing. I soon learned about the different aircraft classes due to the size and weight. Even though I had to work with my CAF plane I had a chance to pop over to catch some of the action from the competition.

Since the planes flying literally don’t need a runway the competition took place mostly on the open grass fields within the airport property.

Obviously this event is way different than an airshow or a normal flying event I’m used to attending.

I had a great time meeting some of the pilots and learning more about the STOL organization. I also learned It’s not just competition but also teaching everyone how to be better Bush pilots out in the wilderness.

There are 12 events scheduled across the country and hopefully the next time I see one the lighting will be much better.

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

Kevin Hong

When the opportunity to come to the Dyess AFB open house came up, the one shot I was looking to capture was a line of B-1Bs on the flight line. I have always sought to capture that iconic shot of a line of bombers or fighters. With Dyess being one of the last Lancer bases capturing this shot was one of the goals. First shot is of the flight line in early morning and shot 2 was just prior to launching the Lancer for the Sunday show.

DYESS AFB OPEN HOUSE HOME OF THE B-1 BONE

Article and photos by Martin Miles

Saturday’s launch of Lancer 85-0061 in a less than optimum weather conditions. This particular aircraft flew the demo on Friday and Saturday with 86-0112 flying the demo Sunday. Taking off into the weather and making a couple of flybys before recovering after the weather had moved through.

Martin Miles

During the flybys Friday and Saturday, you could see there was nose art but not close enough until the taxi in. Captured this when the aircraft was directly across the ramp headed to the blocks. Nose art has been a staple on military aircraft for many years and this one did not disappoint. With a line from Alice in Wonderland, ‘We’re All Mad Here’ is a nightmarish apparition.

Martin Miles

Also shot on arrival day, this burner pass courtesy of Thunderbird 6, Major Laney Schol during initial flybys. The solos arrived and flew some of their maneuvers to get their show routine ready and the remainder of the team arriving shortly afterward.

Martin Miles

Topside view of B-29 Doc. With the 2025 show season, Doc is showing off some new colors and presenting the classic lines of an epic warbird in flight. Any show that features either (or both) airworthy B-29s is one that you have to see. The history that these aircraft can tell, both of their operational history and the stories of the crew that flew them.

Doc’s crew take exceptional care of this aircraft, as you can see from the polished metal you can see why photographers seek to capture it.

Martin Miles

Not every aircraft at the show has a military background. Melissa Dawn Burns is a very accomplished professional pilot with a long list of accomplishments. Her high energy aerobatics with the Edge 540 brings the crowd to the line to watch. I took this image of her ribbon cut on Sunday and captured the ribbons across the aircraft with the GoPro even getting a piece of the ribbon.

Martin Miles

During the Tora performance I was able to catch the start up of the Kates prior to taxi out for Saturdays performance. In the background you can see on of the Dyess C-130Js just prior to landing. The clouds in the background are the leading edge of a thunderstorm that would close the show for a bit as it passed through the area.

Martin Miles

After the rain had moved through the Dyess area Saturday, the show slowly restarted and one act that did provide some interesting pics was the jet truck operated by Hayden Proffitt. The Hot Streak II did not do any high speed runs due to the pavement conditions, but did help dry off some of the ramp and allowed some good shots with the reflections.

Martin Miles

VERTICAL MISSION

Heli NRW at Mönchengladbach Article and photos by Marc Schultz

On February 8, 2025, aviation enthusiasts and aspiring helicopter pilots gathered at Mönchengladbach Airport in Northrhine Westfalia, Germany for Heli NRW’s, one of Germany’s leading helicopter training centers, much-anticipated information day. This event provided a deep dive into the world of helicopter operations, offering firsthand insights into both private and commercial pilot training.

The day began with an in-depth pilot-career presentation by Heli NRW’s experienced flight instructors and professional pilots. Attendees learned about the modular training programs designed to guide students from initial flight experience to fully certified helicopter pilots.

The comprehensive briefing covered the intricacies of pilot education, career pathways, and the operational demands of helicopter aviation.

Following the theoretical classroom session, participants moved outside to get up close with Heli NRW’s training fleet, featuring the Guimbal Cabri G2, Robinson R44 Raven II and Airbus Helicopters H120 Colibri. Under clear February skies, attendees had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the advanced technology and unique handling characteristics of each aircraft type. The hands-on experience allowed prospective pilots to appreciate the complexity and precision required to master rotary-wing flight.

The highlight of the day for many came in the form of individual test flights. Several participants took to the skies in the Cabri G2, accompanied by highly experienced flight instructors. These introductory flights provided a thrilling taste of helicopter operations, demonstrating the aircraft’s impressive agility and control responsiveness.

Beyond those technical aspects, the event fostered a strong sense of community among aviation enthusiasts. The passion and dedication of the Heli NRW team were evident throughout the day, ensuring a seamless and highly informative experience. A special thanks goes to Isabell, Sarah, and Robby for their outstanding organization and

hospitality, making this information day an unforgettable experience for all involved.

For anyone considering a future in helicopter aviation, Heli NRW’s training concept proved to be an invaluable first step toward making that dream a reality. For more information contact their website at www.heli-nrw.de.

All shots in this feature were taken with NIKON Z6 / Z5 and NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S and NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S and NIKKOR Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S.

Marc Schultz

Marc Schultz

Marc Schultz

Marc Schultz

Marc Schultz

Marc Schultz

Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “It is not enough to be busy; so are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?” Well, the obvious answer is, photographing airplanes and hanging out with good friends. So far, 2025 has been a target rich environment. In the span of about ninety days, I have definitely worn a rut in the California highway system traveling to Star Wars Canyon, Red Flag 25-1, Blue Angels/Thunderbirds winter practice at El Centro, the California Capital Airshow, Aviation Nation, and the Sidewinder low level route. And if not for minor tire issue, I had every intention on being at Red Flag 25-2, The ants ain’t got nothing on me.

T E RG

A T A Artic

r Tabo b o yR

sb

hoto

T EN

M N O R I

V EN dp le an

H C RI

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

Rob Tabor

ISAP MEMBER’S SHOWCASE Article and photo by Larry Grace / ISAP President

I was honored to capture new A2A images of the Folds of Honor Biplane with Ed “Hamster” Hamill over the breathtaking Arizona landscape. Freedom is not free; it is a privilege that demands our utmost dedication and sacrifice.

Camera: Nikon Z9 Lens: Nikon 28-400mm f/4-8 VR ISO: 100 Shutter speed: 1/100 Exposure: f/18 Processed in Adobe Photoshop

AIRPLANE SILHOUETTES

by John Ford

Identify these aircraft. The answers are found next to the Kenyon Gyro Ad.

1

2

ww

w. m

in

ds

hi r. c o m

re

na tu

ea

th

wi

f tg

ge

en ga

TH CA E R R CH w YI OIC w NG E w. th SO OF in LU WO kt T I RK an O N IN kp S G F O PR ho R OF to CA E .c M SSI ER O om A NA G E LS AR

| where photography clicks

KelbyOne is an online education community for creative people to help them create the type of images they’ve always wanted.

We are driven by a passion to provide incredible training, with over 800 courses.

kelbyone.com

Our HD-quality lessons, are available to stream 24/7 and taught by world-class industry instructors. Online Access also includes digital editions of Photoshop User magazine and Lightroom Magazine, guided learning tracks, a community forum, brushes, presets and so much more.

Visit kelbyone.com/pricing to view membership plans

Jim Wilson Photography International Distributor for Kenyon Stabilizing Products 214-796-9743 jw@jimwilsonphotography.com

Answers to Airplane Silhouettes 1. F4-U Corsair 2. F4F-3

The Professionals Source Professionals in the world of imaging rely on the professionals of B&H for their equipment needs. We have experts ready to give courteous service with a phone call, a click of the mouse or a personal visit.

Our SuperStore We pay tribute to the wealth of possibilities available for photography, videography and other media industries. We make the wonders of technology available through our complete lines of photo, video, audio, lighting, pro accessories, computers, data storage, optics, entertainment, projection and surveillance devices, to which we add a wonderful, personal experience for professionals, hobbyists and consumers alike.

History We opened our original storefront in 1973. Our reputation for extensive inventory and intelligent conversation about photography began with our first customer. We grew from a small photography shop in Manhattan’s Financial District to a major supplier of photo, video and audio equipment on 17th Street, with customers returning again and again for our low pricing and high reliability. The new millennium’s explosion of affordable technology for pros and consumers alike brought new lines of computers, home entertainment, and consumer devices at our location or online at www.bhphotovideo.com We continue to expand to meet your needs with showrooms, classes, educational and social media, and more.

Photo by John E– PAUL’S Team member

PAUL’S PHOTO

Your local camera store, no matter where you live

paulsphoto.com 310-375-7014

IN-STOCK LOW PRICE FINANCING TRADE-INS EXPERT ADVISE

I

onal Soc iet nati r e y nt

at

h

©

y

A

vi

io n

Pho

ap togr

www.aviationphoto.org

WWW.KELBYONE.COM

WWW.REDRIVERPAPER.COM

WWW.FULLCOLOR.COM

WWW.THINKTANKPHOTO.COM

WWW.BHPHOTOVIDEO.COM

WWW.DELKINDEVICES.COM

WWW.PAULSPHOTO.COM

ISAP Board Members President and Board Chairman

Larry Grace

Vice President and Vice Chairman Jim Wilson Treasurer Gary Edwards ISAP Board Member Kevin Hong ISAP Staff Member John Sepp Chairman Emeritus Jay Miller Airspeed Editor Kevin Hong

Airspeed is a periodic publication of the International Society for Aviation Photography (ISAP) and is used to communicate news, functions, convention information, and other information of interest on the local, regional, and national scenes. The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the authors and should not be construed as the views or opinions of the International Society for Aviation Photography (ISAP).

Please contact us at info@aviationphoto.org

Airspeed is a publication to showcase our members’ work capturing aviation.

I

ational Socie ty ern nt

at

ph

©

y

A

vi

io n

a P h otogr