SMYRNA, TN (WGNS) – Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr joined Smyrna Mayor Mary Esther Reed and other local leaders Thursday morning to welcome the U.S. Navy Blue Angels during a special media event at the Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport ahead of The Great Tennessee Air Show 2025.

The event gave guests an early look at the famed Blue Angels’ high-speed aerial maneuvers, offering a preview of what’s in store for attendees this weekend. Known for their precision and power, the Blue Angels have served as one of the U.S. Navy’s most iconic public outreach programs for nearly eight decades.

Mayor Carr highlighted both the excitement and economic impact the air show brings to Rutherford County.

The Great Tennessee Air Show is expected to draw approximately 10,000 spectators over the course of the weekend, according to the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce. The influx of visitors is expected to provide a boost to hotels, restaurants, and local businesses, making the event not just an entertainment highlight, but also a contributor to the region’s economy.

The Blue Angels, established in 1946 at the direction of Admiral Chester Nimitz, have performed for more than 500 million fans worldwide. Their return to Rutherford County continues a long-standing tradition of military aviation displays at the Smyrna Airport.

The air show runs this Saturday and Sunday, June 7–8, with tickets and more details available at greattennesseeairshow.com and on the event's Facebook page.

For more about the Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority, visit smyrnaairport.com.