The show will be in air as well as on track at BIR

Fast vehicles on the ground won't be the only eye-catcher at Brainerd International Raceway this weekend, some of the action will be at least 250 feet above the ground.

Mike Wiskus, 2004 United States Advanced Aerobatic Team member, said he plans airplane aerobatics with tumbling maneuvers, rolls and spins at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at BIR.

Wiskus said Lucas Oil helped him last August get to the World Advanced Aerobatic Competitions in Lungbyhed, Sweden. Wiskus said he came home with the silver medal. In turn, he said he wanted to come up and fly for the Lucas family at BIR.

Flights are set between 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday.

In addition, Wiskus is coordinating a much larger air show next summer at the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport. He said he knew about the airport's new runway project and talked to the airport management about hosting an air show in celebration.

"I'm an air show freak," Wiskus said. "I saw my first air show when I was 10 years old and I've been madly in love with air shows and aerobatics ever since."

The air show is being planned for June 24-25 with five to seven air acts and vintage military planes. Wiskus said he may include a car and boat show and motorcycle displays. Other events are expected to include airplane rides and activities for children.

"A lot of variety mixed with airplanes," Wiskus said of the weekend's events. "I've been welcomed a lot up there and it's just a real opportunity to bring something back to the community."

Details are still being worked out but adult air show ticket prices are expected to be about $10 for the advance tickets and $14 at the gate. Tickets for children may be $6 for advance sales and $8 at the gate.

Wiskus said the air show's budget is $100,000 so he hopes to attract a good turnout next summer.

RENEE RICHARDSON can be reached at renee.richardson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5852.