Thousands of spectators lined the Annapolis waterfront on Tuesday to witness the U.S. Navy's elite flight squadron, the Blue Angels, perform a full rehearsal over the Severn River in preparation for Wednesday's official air show.

The annual practice session drew crowds to parks, boats, and sidewalks across the city as the Blue Angels executed high-speed aerial maneuvers during the Naval Academy Commissioning Week.

Connor, an 11-year-old visitor from Centreville, described the show as "exciting." When asked about the jets' speed, he estimated, "Probably over 100 mph—really, really fast."

Understanding the Blue Angels

The Blue Angels are a Navy flight demonstration team that performs stunts and maneuvers during air shows nationwide. They pilot F/A-18 Super Hornets, with some maneuvers reaching speeds of approximately 700 miles per hour, nearly the speed of sound. Their renowned Diamond 360 maneuver features jets flying as close as 18 inches apart.

The Annapolis show coincides with the U.S. Naval Academy's Commissioning Week, running from May 16 to May 22, culminating in a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 22. The Blue Angels' official performance is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday over the Severn River.

Officials encourage visitors to arrive early, anticipate heavy traffic, and be prepared to walk. Spectators are also advised to bring sunscreen and water due to hot temperatures.

The Blue Angels will return to Maryland for another demonstration on June 27 and June 28 for the Sail250 airshow in Baltimore.

"It's Always a Thrill"

Spectator Linda Everett expressed amazement at the Blue Angels' maneuvers, highlighting the precision, practice, and skill demonstrated by the pilots.

Since 1946, the Blue Angels have showcased the professionalism and teamwork of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. For many first-time viewers, the performance left a lasting impression.

Zoe Scontras from Leesburg, Virginia, marveled at the pilots' resilience, wondering how they endure such intense flights. "I've never seen it before, so I'm excited to see what happens," she added.

Others noted the show's deeper sense of patriotism and tradition during Commissioning Week. Dawn Scontras from Leesburg remarked, "It kind of gives you this feeling of like, 'Wow, those are our guys.'"

Dean Scontras shared his family's strong Navy ties, mentioning his brother's service as a Navy pilot. "This is a great event to see prior to the graduation. We love coming back and visiting and seeing the show," he said.

For longtime Annapolis residents, the event remains a cherished tradition. Robin, who brought the child she nannies to watch the rehearsal, noted, "It's always a thrill. Especially to see it through new eyes."

Traffic Restrictions for Blue Angels Flyover

Vessel traffic in the Severn River will be restricted on Wednesday from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

During the Blue Angels' air show on Wednesday, the following traffic restrictions will be in place:

• The exit 27 ramp of Route 50 onto southbound MD-450 (Baltimore/Naval Academy) will be closed.
• The Naval Academy Bridge will be closed, with significant delays expected on MD-450 and MD-648 south of US-50.
• Access to Pendennis Mount, Greenbury Point, and the Naval Support Activity will be limited.
• Southbound MD-450 traffic will detour northbound at the World War II Memorial.
• Southbound MD-648 traffic will detour at Greenbury Point Road and will not access MD-450.

Drivers should expect delays, detours, and heavy traffic between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, according to Anne Arundel County Police.

In:

• U.S. Naval Academy
• Annapolis