The Aerial Events Committee is co-chaired by Julius Rice, Rosecrans Memorial Airport Manager, and Lute Atieh, CEO of FlyTech Pilot Academy, both longtime volunteers supporting aviation events at Rosecrans Memorial Airport. The committee operates in partnership with the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri to support aviation-focused community events, educational outreach, and STEM engagement opportunities. Through this relationship, sponsorships and financial contributions made in support of committee activities and events are processed through the Community Foundation and may be considered charitable contributions, with appropriate documentation and receipts provided when applicable.
The Aerial Events Committee helps organize and support a growing lineup of aviation events at Rosecrans Memorial Airport designed to promote aviation, tourism, education, and community engagement throughout Northwest Missouri. The committee’s flagship event is the Sound of Speed Airshow, which has become one of the region’s premier aviation attractions. In addition to the airshow, the committee now supports and manages a variety of aviation-focused events throughout the year, including the Pony Express STOL Competition, the nationally recognized Women’s Air Race Classic stop coming to St. Joseph this summer, as well as Warbird Fly-Ins and Flightline Festival events that bring historic aircraft, pilots, aviation enthusiasts, families, and visitors together at Rosecrans. These events are intended to maintain year-round momentum around aviation in St. Joseph while creating educational, STEM, tourism, and workforce development opportunities for the community.
Every show offers a different family-friendly experience than the last, but we are committed to
making sure everyone has a incredible, memorable and safe show.
Sound of Speed Airshow attracts large crowds of enthusists. Your safety is very important to us. For your safety, expect bag checks, leave weapons at home, & check-in your kids.
Our show features aircraft performing at low altitudes. Jet engines can cause hearing damage. Please remember ear protection for yourself and young members of your group.
Helicopter rides over the Missouri River, exotic car ride alongs, virtual reality experiences, etc. Our show often offers unique experiences that might require additional money or legal waivers to participate.
We believe in FREE fun for everyone. We offer free parking and free general admission to our show. There are opportunities to purchase premiere parking and upgrading seating as well.
Water is provided free of charge at drinking fountains. Food, soft drinks, souvenirs and some experiences are provided by vendors and will require additional payment.
The Sound of Speed Airshow is an outdoor event and event goers will be exposed to the elements. Please dress appropriately and prepare accordingly.
