Did you hear it too? Extra-loud West Seattle flyover wasn’t the Blue Angels

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels get most of the rap for Seafair airshow noise – but if you heard fighter-jet noise in the 1 pm hour this weekend, that wasn’t them. Today, we received multiple reports of an extremely loud, low West Seattle flyover in the early afternoon, beyond what we usually hear from readers. This report is from MB:

I’d like to share this with the WS community.

As a 20yr resident of WS, I’ve heard the Blue Angels practice and perform over our neighborhood literally dozens of times. Their flyovers over are often enjoyable, if temporarily noisy.

But today about 1 pm, as I was walking to the Farmers Market with my daughter and our dog, I experienced the lowest, loudest and most painful flyover I have ever encountered. It was by far the most painful sound I have experienced in my life.

As a professional audio engineer, I can say with certainty that the loudness was at least 140db at our location near Holy Rosary — well above the pain threshold of 125db, and into the range that causes immediate hearing loss.

My ears are still ringing loudly, a certain sign of hearing loss. Since I make my living by listening, this is especially worrying to me. Right now, I am unable to work. Hopefully the ringing will be better tomorrow (but the hearing loss is already permanent and irreversible, unfortunately that’s how it works).

It’s difficult to understand why any plane would ever be allowed to fly so low over a densely populated area. Children were scared, animals were terrified, car alarms were triggered.

Even for people who are not audio professionals, it is not reasonable to ask an entire neighborhood to risk hearing loss for the sake of someone else’s entertainment miles away.

We didn’t hear it, as we’re in the south end of West Seattle and the primary source of noise on Seafair afternoons has been commercial jet traffic temporarily redirected this way. No photos/video but the Seafair airshow schedule shows a Navy EA-18G Growler from Whidbey Island going up at 1 pm, and an Air Force F35A at 1:45 pm; the Blue Angels’ show was scheduled after 3:30 pm. If you have feedback for Seafair – good, bad, otherwise – their contact info is here.

Marina August 4, 2024 (5:24 pm)

Yeah it flew like 300 feet over the golf course, I saw it happen and it was crazy.

west August 4, 2024 (5:50 pm)

Was it a blue angle that you saw? I heard it coming and believed it was related to the air show but it still freaked me out at its peak.
- Marina August 4, 2024 (6:17 pm)
  
  No, it was probably the 18G Growler around 1pm! I was reading on my balcony, I face south and it was pretty sudden! I had no idea it was coming lol. The one that happened closer to 4 was a Blue Angel, got a pretty good pic of it with my camera!
- Marina August 4, 2024 (6:21 pm)
  
  Nope, it was the 18G growler I think at 1pm. I was chillin on my balcony (I face south) and saw it before i heard it, it was insane. Got a good pic of the blue angel that flew over around 4 though! Having a hard time uploading it here unfortunately

Erik August 4, 2024 (5:25 pm)

I heard it. Was wondering what it was. For those of us with PTSD and anxiety issues it’s a real pain having to deal with the Seafair noise. No need to do a super low flyover through West Seattle like that.

Meg August 4, 2024 (5:28 pm)

I was in my kitchen (5 blocks down the hill from Hily Rosary) and it was awful. I also have never heard anything that loud in this location during a Blue Angel’s show.

JL August 4, 2024 (5:34 pm)

Send comments to the Seattle Special Events Office because they approve the events of Seafair: specialeventsoffice@seattle.gov. Share your concerns with the Mayor and city council representatives.An article in Seattle Times confirms your concern about impacts on hearing and health. Written by an Air Force Flight Surgeon, the title is “Let’s honor the past but bid farewell to the Blue Angels” at https://www.seattletimes.com/opinion/lets-honor-the-past-but-bid-farewell-to-the-blue-angels/ He writes that “A study of noise from the F/A-18 — the Blue Angel plane — at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island found “over 74,000 people were at risk of adverse health effects. Of those exposed, substantial numbers were estimated to be highly annoyed and highly sleep-disturbed, and several schools were exposed to levels that place them at risk of delay in childhood learning.” South Seattle Seafair neighbors suffer similar noise risk.” He also reports that the Blue Angels’ visit contributes “about 670 metric tons of carbon dioxide, contributing more to climate change than 30 cars would by driving 150,000 miles each — for just one weekend of fun. Seafair crowds and neighbors in South Seattle pay not just the cost of a ticket, but also suffer health harm from highly inhalable PM 2.5 particles.”If you’d like to promote improvements in Seafair go to https://www.seaclimateaction.info/getinvolved/

CarDriver August 4, 2024 (6:56 pm)

JL. Are you-and the other jet haters here working to and wanting to ground all commercial and private jets (and prop planes)? They ALL make a LOT of noise and emit pollutants. Or are you saying that if only military jets are grounded all will be fine.
- Kay August 4, 2024 (7:19 pm)
  
  I’d like piggy back on this question…why live in a big city if they hate noise? I love coming to the comments to see everyone complaining. Grew up watching the blue angels, and now showing my kids how dope they are.
  - Churro August 5, 2024 (6:44 am)
    
    It’s excessive noise that’s the problem! Not the sounds of everyday city life! Kay, regular city sounds don’t shake my house or cause ptsd flashbacks for veterans. Hyperbolic comments like yours reflect a deep lack of empathy.
    - CarDriver August 5, 2024 (9:26 am)
      
      I do have empathy. But with jet noise; fireworks; gunfire; vehicles backfiring; construction people dropping something heavy making a bang educate us on how EVERY “triggering” noise can and will be eliminated in a city.
  - Thomas August 5, 2024 (1:20 pm)
    
    I heard loud it and clear It was over in a matter of seconds Not a sustained noise get over it!
    - Falcon August 5, 2024 (5:40 pm)
      
      I will never understand someone saying “this thing is really bothering me” gets people saying “get over it!” Especially when the opposite can be true with such ridiculous reasoning. You don’t like someone has a problem with Blue Angels and wants it to stop? “Get over it!” See? It’s not helpful. It’s called dialogue. Show some empathy and let’s talk out the benefits and see if they outweigh the concerns. It’s called being an adult!
- AG August 4, 2024 (7:45 pm)
  
  Imagine conflating commercial AND military traffic with the random Blue Angels “entertainment” flyovers. How embarrassing for you, dear.
- Bbron August 5, 2024 (9:58 am)
  
  i don’t understand the binary of either hate or love that you and a lot of commenters roll out whenever someone wants to look deeper into the reasons for or continued practicality of doing some particular thing. people can see the practicality and consistency of how a commercial airport operates while also questioning why we have to keep hosting military parades. y’all seem to only be comfortable creating and attacking the strawmen you create than having a conversation that you may end up having long held beliefs shaken.
- My Ears Hurt August 5, 2024 (10:04 am)
  
  I enjoy the blue angels but that plane was deafening. I heard that type of plane last year when I was at a friends house close to the water and I made it a point to not head that direction early in the airshow because it was too loud.
- Johannes Bols August 6, 2024 (8:08 am)
  
  I’m not a jet hater. I did notice they sounded like they were flying lower this year. I’m on Lower Queen Anne.

MacJ August 4, 2024 (5:36 pm)

I heard this too, it was startlingly loud even from Genesee Hill. I do enjoy the Blue Angels and air shows generally, and have loved having the BAs perform for Seafair since I was a kid, but doing it in a city with a ton of unwilling participants is getting more and more unreasonable.

AO August 4, 2024 (5:38 pm)

It was definitely the F35A. Saw it from our home as it looped above the Junction and then was hit by the sound shortly after.

F-N-A! August 4, 2024 (7:44 pm)

Sorry I missed it. Yes, I heard it here down in Morgan Junction, but wish they’d have announced it in advance—I’d liked to have watched for it. “F- Yeah, America…🎶
kw August 4, 2024 (8:21 pm)

It was the F18 Growler.

wsgal August 4, 2024 (5:41 pm)

It was SO LOUD, I was wincing for the impending crash, it was scary.

WS Resident August 5, 2024 (9:44 am)

No you weren’t. Stop the drama.
- Ferns August 5, 2024 (2:48 pm)
  
  Stop minimizing someone else’s experience. Noise can be painful.

Sunshine August 4, 2024 (5:43 pm)

Thank you, neighbor! Your informed post helps those who don’t have your knowledge, but experienced it, too.

Vanessa August 4, 2024 (5:45 pm)

We live near Mt. Saint Vincent’s and it was extremely loud. FLYING WAY TOO LOW!

Derp August 4, 2024 (5:47 pm)

I was down on Airport way right next to the runways. What an awesome display of our fighting aircraft. The ones that protect this country. Nothing was louder than the 6, Blue Angels taking off. These planes fly all over Seattle and set up for their routine over lake Washington. To make some of those runs, they have to be low. God bless America and our Troops.

Jeff August 4, 2024 (6:28 pm)

I’m unclear what anyone was being protected from in this instance.
- Derp August 4, 2024 (7:22 pm)
  
  Our rights as citizens of this city and of Seafair. If you people don’t like it, that is your choice, but don’t ruin it for others. Everybody waits all year long for Seafair. You don’t like, leave for the weekend. But don’t take the BRIDGE, it is CLOSED. LOL LOL I have been going since the early 70’s. The planes top it off.Bah humbug
  - Gaslit August 4, 2024 (9:56 pm)
    
    Sorry. Seafair and exhibition air shows are not a “right”. This is the problem with far right wing thinking. This is an optional activity for you and anyone has the actual “right” to be able to offer a counter opinion to its existence due to it being part of bloated government spending which yields little of any results beyond higher taxes.
  - CW August 5, 2024 (1:57 pm)
    
    You people? Your comment sounds a lot like when “those people” wanted a smoke-free indoor environment and smokers complained “those people” were ruining it for them. Some folks just take a looong time to learn that some things they happen to enjoy are not good for anyone.
- AG August 4, 2024 (7:46 pm)
  
  Common sense, apparently. I hope everyone physically harmed by this absolutely unnecessary flyover lawyers up, I really do.
  - WS Resident August 5, 2024 (9:46 am)
    
    “physically harmed”. Good lord…..
  - charlie August 5, 2024 (1:54 pm)
    
    Yes; jets loud, fire engines loud, motorcycles loud, thunder loud. Manhattan loud. Did you have a heart attack? No. Put your hands over your ears like you do on the street every day. It is Seafair. Learn to enjoy the sound of technology along with the rest of us.
    - Bob August 5, 2024 (4:34 pm)
      
      Not right over our roofs though. The Growler was way way too low over Admiral. Apartment literally rattled. Nothing enjoyable, cool, patriotic about that.

Ouch! August 4, 2024 (5:48 pm)

Really appreciating the insights from the audio engineer. Thank you for the info. Fortunately I missed this noise.

Carol August 4, 2024 (5:53 pm)

It flew over the Mariners game, seemed to be intentional. I believe it was timed with a moment of recognition of military service. Was the loudest I have ever heard at T-Mobile Park, felt like the whole stadium was shaking. Way louder than the Blue Angels fly-over.

Mike August 4, 2024 (6:07 pm)

Apparently it’s part of a special US squadron of EA-18G “Growlers” based typically in Japan. Was it loud, absolutely, did car alarms go off, yes, are people being overly hysterical…yup. “As a professional audio engineer, I can say with certainty that the loudness was at least 140db” uh huh….sure smh

NorseGirl August 4, 2024 (6:29 pm)

Mike, Your judgement “are people being overly hysterical….yup” was insensitive and unwarrented.
Andrew August 4, 2024 (7:33 pm)

As another audio professional that acquired an FL Studio license from a cereal box in 2005, I’d estimate at least 150db.
AnotherWestSeattleResident August 4, 2024 (8:27 pm)

The other 95% of West Seattle/Seattle residents Hope the Blue Angels (or other military) aircraft participating in Seafair will make a low-level pass over Our neighborhood…seriously!
- ArborheightsGal August 5, 2024 (9:12 am)
  
  This 👆🏼👆🏼👆🏼👆🏼 I wish we experienced it
- Goov August 5, 2024 (5:34 pm)
  
  No thanks

Princess Pea August 4, 2024 (6:08 pm)

Hi Everyone,O.M.G. I live on the 4th floor at Junction Flats, I was lying in my bed and my Yorkie was laying on my chest and I held onto my Yorkie and thought this is it!!!I I thought it was The Blue Angels as well.The sound scared the $@&@ out of me.Thank god everybody is ok

miws August 4, 2024 (6:12 pm)

As of a year ago today I now live in the New Holly area cross streets D Myrtle and S Willow. I heard a very loud low jet noise and just thought it was the Blues —Mike

WSBreader August 4, 2024 (6:28 pm)

These flyovers are just obnoxious. I grew up in a military town and have fond memories of Air Force Academy flyovers at football games. The difference there is that the pilots didn’t fly over the adjacent city for 3 days straight beforehand. Not everybody wants to attend Seafair, and for those of us who don’t particularly want to go, we end up being subjected to this really annoying noise roaring overhead whether we like it or not.

Whisky Woods August 4, 2024 (7:48 pm)

Here’s an idea.., Next year you should plan a vacation to Ocean Shores on Safari weekend.
- Bill#1 August 5, 2024 (6:18 am)
  
  Today’s top comment!
- Andros August 5, 2024 (9:26 am)
  
  This, exactly. We live in a city that is pro-airplane/aeronautical. My wife works for Boeing and I love science and engineering. If you don’t like it, please leave town for the week if it’s causing you stress.I’ve lived here for 30 years, and enjoy the exciting airshow over our beautiful city in the summer.
- AK August 5, 2024 (9:52 am)
  
  Yes! Love your response Whisky Woods!
- Bob August 5, 2024 (4:39 pm)
  
  Can’t afford going on a vacation. How dare you tell people to leave if they don’t like it.

clinker August 4, 2024 (6:30 pm)

That was the equivalent of a very close flyover at an airshow. The ones where everyone is wearing earmuffs. The Blue Angels never do that over the city.Ukraine is on the news today for flying their new f16s.

NorseGirl August 4, 2024 (6:37 pm)

My partner and I live in Genesee Hills and were outside in our yard. We were aware of the scheduled Blue Angel show. We have witnessed the show many previous years from our yard, and knew what to expect.My partner heard the extremely loud flyover. He thought we were under attack or a jet was crashing in the area. He immediately took cover. After his initial relief, he was shocked and angered. He is a Vet and a patriot. He did not find anything fun or patriotic about the event.

NotOnHolden August 4, 2024 (10:49 pm)

I have become used to the BA fly overs and I honestly thought something went wrong when I heard this. I was inside with a few windows open, it shook our junction apt bldg and all the dogs went nuts. This was absolutely NOT just the regular noise and I’m rather annoyed at folks dismissing it as we’re all just sensitive and hate freedom. If you heard that s*** you really heard it. Noise for the sake of noise.

Kersti Muul August 4, 2024 (6:38 pm)

Was extremely loud along Bonair as well. Scared a bunch of kids

Steph August 4, 2024 (6:40 pm)

I didn’t hear this because I didn’t have my hearing aids on. I was right there by it . Am I going to get deafer from it anyway? I do feel a lack of oxygen. Is that from all the CD?

Davidws August 4, 2024 (7:01 pm)

Feel what it’s like to be at war and you’ll thank the pilots and the planes that protect you.

Jeff P August 5, 2024 (8:11 am)

The same ones you abandon to the street the moment they get an addiction? Like my uncle who was in Vietnam… he is homeless and probably on third ave wandering around somewhere. FREEDOM!! Right???
MW August 5, 2024 (9:59 pm)

O jesus. God bless us all including those of you who fought for my freedom and don’t think I deserve it.

Rumbles August 4, 2024 (7:01 pm)

I was at the Alaska Junction and it didn’t sound that loud to me. Not sure what all the concern is about.

Julian August 5, 2024 (4:42 am)

You may be suffering from hearing loss already. I live in Alaska junction and thought the jet was trying to land in the parking lot next to my building to go to the farmer’s market. It was insanely loud and set off a lot of car alarms in the area.

Meeeeee August 4, 2024 (7:07 pm)

The Instagram page @growlerairshowteam clearly says they’re doing a Seattle airshow Aug 2-4 in Seattle. I heard it, it was super loud, it was one and done. I’ll survive with no appreciable hearing damage.

Pietro August 4, 2024 (7:30 pm)

It’s the sound of freedom!

Bob August 4, 2024 (7:36 pm)

I’m an audiophile and really like to understand sound waves in my environment, in fact I have a PhD in Audio Science. This was what we call beyond terrestrial on the wave generation scale, make no mistake. This is akin to the noise generated by a pickleball paddle or dare I say the Jesus people by T-Mobile. Yes, you know the Jesus people I speak of, capable of discharging a sonic wave that could melt an eardrum underwater if exposed for even eight microseconds. This was the Boeing EA-18 Growler. I could tell as maybe many experts on the land mass could as it hissed overheard. That signature wwwwrrrrrrrp sssccccchaaaaawwww as it flew overheard is unmistakable. What can we do about it? Unfortunately, experts in my field have suggested two boats unloading over on the Duwamish versus the usual one. We need much more than a hum to prevent turbojet assault on our earwax.

JEM August 4, 2024 (7:39 pm)

It was definitely a flyover for Mariners game, they went by stadium several times. Way earlier than the Blue Angels show.

WSB August 4, 2024 (8:22 pm)

I just re-checked the media preview email they send out before homestands – Friday was the Navy salute night. Even featuring Fat Albert’s pilot throwing the first pitch!
- Jeff P. August 5, 2024 (8:07 am)
  
  Brett Boone threw the first pitch on Sunday. There was no Sunday Mariners flyover. I attended the game–jets went by for different Seafair things but not the game.

J August 4, 2024 (7:42 pm)

We heard the noise in North Admiral. Loved it. Assumed it was the blue angels but also saw the jet heading east and it was silver not blue. Sorry for people that can’t handle the noise due to various reasons, but we found it thrilling, having never been to war, etc.

Prof. Decibel August 4, 2024 (7:56 pm)

We. Will. Rebuild.#westseattlestrong

Earz August 4, 2024 (8:38 pm)

🤣🤣🤣
wscommuter August 4, 2024 (9:54 pm)

Ditto. Best comment today. With honorable mention to the pickleball reference in Bob’s note above.

Farmer shopper August 4, 2024 (8:07 pm)

I saw it fly over the Farmer’s Market. It wasn’t blue, so I knew it wasn’t a Blue Angel. I thought it was part of the air show at Seafair though.

Hammer in Hand August 4, 2024 (8:18 pm)

It seems that if one has lived in Seattle for 20years you should know that the first weekend in August is Seafair Blue Angelsthey have been loud for a along timeThe schedule has been out for awhile if one’s hearing is of concern a little advanced planning would seem to go a long way in your part Even parents at the Seahawks and Mariners game bring ear protection. If you’re sensitive to noise and your out and about consider protecting yourself. After 20years you might plan a trip to the ocean not to the market during a posted event timeA little personal responsibility would go a long wayWhat you heard was the sound of freedom!already looking forward to next year!!to the Blues and everyone else.. thank you for your service and being in Seattle for Seafair

reading 101 August 5, 2024 (7:11 am)

Uh, the schedule didn’t list this flyover–it was hours before the first listed jets. As for “ear protection”? And what, wear that protection 24/7? Again, you completely missed the point that this extraordinarily loud flyover WAS NOT ANNOUNCED OR LISTED. Also lol at “the sound of freedom,” bless your heart.
- WSB August 5, 2024 (2:44 pm)
  
  It did. The Seafair airshow page had expandable schedules for each days (still there) – the Sunday schedule was:
  https://www.seafair.org/seafairairshow
  
  11:10 AM – US Coast Guard Search and Rescue
  
  12:00 PM – US Army Golden Knights
  
  1:00 PM – US Navy EA-18G Growler
  
  1:30 PM – US Air Force C17
  
  1:45 PM – US Air Force F35A
  
  2:10 PM – PBY-5A Catalina
  
  3:05 PM – Boeing Flyover
  
  3:10 PM – USMarines F35B
  
  3:35 PM – US Navy Blue Angels
  
  Just since you mention it.
Actually Mike August 5, 2024 (7:17 am)

O.B.S. If this weekend’s flights were essential to the national defense? They would have my support, and those crewing them would have my thanks. But this weekend’s taxpayer-supported air antics had nothing to do with defending the nation, and those of us in dissent are at least as patriotic as you are. If I want the shingles on my roof re-arranged, I’ll put in a request. Otherwise, buzz off.

Alki resident August 4, 2024 (8:20 pm)

We are so fortunate to have the jets every summer. Coming home on I-5 Saturday, they were directly ahead of me facing North and I got the chills. I heard them today and wish I could’ve gotten video in time. I love our tradition here and very grateful each year they come. Seafair wouldn’t be Seafair without the jets.

Defund the military August 4, 2024 (8:22 pm)

My daughter and I had biked up to Jefferson park when the jets buzzed the area multiple times. I had never in my life heard anything so painfully loud. My ears hurt badly, I had an instant headache and my daughter burst into tears. What a horrid show of unwarranted aggression, with no warning it was going to come. I explained to her this is why our family does not support the military and never will.

Thomas August 5, 2024 (5:07 pm)

Unbelievable you want to defund the military? Do you really believe if we got rid of the military Are adversaries would just leave us alone.I think you need to take a trip to Europe and visit the Nazi death camps.Or the Netherlands where the population was starved by the Nazis.Their are many countries that would love to destroy us.Quit being so naive many Americans have died so you and your daughter can ride your bikes!

Morgan August 4, 2024 (8:27 pm)

First thought was my roof was going to fall in and my house was in trouble. Second thought was the terror of civilians in war zones.There’s a difference between residential city neighborhood people not consenting to having military aircraft without warning go over their heads, and buying a ticket to an air show.does that make me a killjoy? Guess so. I don’t have issue with nascar races…but usually you elect to go and not be forced on your home to have a nascar drive by.Curious what Venn Diagram is between folks who hate street racing noise and like military aircraft flying over head.

‘i can’t hear anymore’ August 4, 2024 (8:49 pm)

Hey guys, I think the Seafair schedule has been out for months now. There is no surprise that we have a spectacular air show to showcase the Navy/Marines and the talent of these men and women every single year. It is also no surprise that when the Mariners or Seahawks play, there can be a quick flyby by loud jets. I heard the plane, it startled me at first, but soon filled me with joy because of how awesome these people and machines are. It was loud, but not nearly as loud as the original post made it out to be. I am located a few blocks from the Junction. My ears are not ringing, I am not experiencing hearing loss. For goodness sake, you live in a densely populated city. There are bigger fish to fry in this city than complaining about a loud airplane quickly flying over your house.

wren August 4, 2024 (9:12 pm)

The lack of decency and respect for your neighbors saddens me in these comments. Did I hear it? No. Would it have bothered me if I did? Likely no. But all feelings and experiences are valid. Even ones we disagree with or don’t understand. I love Seafair and other military demonstrations. And, believe it or not, we can feel that love for the show AND have empathy for others who have trauma or just don’t like the show for one reason or another. Also, those of you suggesting people plan a vacation- some people can’t afford to go on a vacation. Be kind, neighbors. Show’s over. Let’s breathe ❤️

M August 4, 2024 (9:56 pm)

Thank you Wren! Well said.
Pete August 5, 2024 (5:45 am)

Thanks Wren.
R-n-B August 5, 2024 (8:27 am)

Very well said. Sadly, the lack of consideration demonstrated here is no surprise.

Mellow Kitty August 4, 2024 (9:46 pm)

My husband and I thought a plane was about to crash into one of the nearby buildings! Sounded like it was just outside the window.

Hannah August 4, 2024 (10:26 pm)

For the folks that love Seafair, that’s great. But when the majority of residents in a city don’t want the stress, noise, traffic, and pollution of an air show, it’s time for change. Maybe instead of telling half of Seattle to vacate their homes for the weekend (and making a bold assumption that people can leave their homes and jobs and ‘take a vacation’), maybe the people who want to see an air show could drive out of town to one?

Ross August 4, 2024 (10:55 pm)

I’m sure it’s a much smaller minority of people than half the city that don’t like the air show.
- sherry August 5, 2024 (5:58 am)
  
  yup! Flew right over my dog and I was the coolest sight. We both just stood there and watched it. Maybe people should get over complaining about every little thing. I only happens once year. We love the show, every time my dog hears them she runs outside to watch. I have trained her since a pup that it is a big loud bird, and she will literally watch them go by.
- Guy August 5, 2024 (12:38 pm)
  
  I’m pretty sure you’d be surprised at how many people don’t like the noise, traffic inconvenience, and contribution to climate change and waste of valuable fuel associated with the annual Seafair air raid. One can support the military and be a patriot, and one can be thankful for the Blue Angels and their pilots, without liking the flyovers and the air show. These things aren’t mutually exclusive. It’s the 21st century. Why do we need bad things to continue just because when they started it was a different world?
Thomas August 5, 2024 (5:16 pm)

Where did you get your stats. That a majority want to get rid of the air show

Vee August 4, 2024 (10:39 pm)

I was down on harbor Ave when it went over, wasn’t sure what is was because low and very loud but nothing as awful and devastating that many are stating, I’m older and my ears are fine

Freedom is Loud August 4, 2024 (10:48 pm)

It was either an F-18G Growler from Whidbey Island NAS or the F-35A. I was outside and heard it rip. Very cool. The neighborhood kids were quite excited and pumped afterwards. We’re VERY lucky to have the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Army stationed all around us.

Pete S. Sake August 4, 2024 (11:17 pm)

I guess nobody remembers when Obama was in town and a non responsive small craft was in the closed air space. Two fighter jets were sent from Oregon and were here in minutes, breaking the sound barrier. This wasn’t even close, and we all apparently survived that….

WSB August 4, 2024 (11:53 pm)

Coming up on the 14th anniversary of that.
https://westseattleblog.com/2010/08/yes-we-heard-it-too/
IHeartBBP August 5, 2024 (1:12 pm)

I still think about those 2010 sonic booms from time to time. I was walking down in Pioneer Square that day. I remember feeling alarmed, then fearful that there was an attack happening. I can imagine some folks felt the same thing this last weekend.
newnative August 5, 2024 (4:42 pm)

Sonic booms “sound” different though. To me, it sounded like someone dropping a refrigerator on the roof. then outside, it sounded like a car crash. Yesterday’s fly-by sounded like a plane crash landing.

M August 4, 2024 (11:25 pm)

I heard it. It sounded like it flew directly over my condo. Loudest I have ever heard and that was with doors and windows closed. I loved it. I kept going out to the deck hoping it would come back. I think it was the Growler as it was currently performing at that time as we had the Seafair show on Kong TV Sorry for those that have PTSD and impacted by it. Obviously I would not understand that impact to those who suffer from it.

If I wanted to go to seafair, I would. August 4, 2024 (11:39 pm)

Me and my kids were inside Dough Joy. It was sudden, extremely loud and scary. Birds flew off, startled. People walking by ducked. Thanks for the links, I will be letting whoever plans this crap how I feel. If I wanted to go to seafair, I would go to seafair. Don’t bring it to me.

Karen B August 5, 2024 (12:05 am)

Even though it’s late, I want to share my household’s
experience with this flyover and address some of the comments on this story.

This flyover was hours ahead of what we were
expecting and unlike what we’d seen in recent days during the practices. We
expected that the Blue Angels air show performance in the 3 o’clock hour would
be the most noisy, around 3:30.

We were not ready for something to jar us shortly after 1
o’clock – way lower and way more loudly than the Blue Angels – and it was
terrifying for furry ones and little kids. I also assume that it was
worrisome at Providence Mt St Vincent. We are one block from there and it
rattled our windows.

Who planned this flyover and did anyone vet this?

I’m also wondering why the Alert Seattle system that used to
send us mentions of traffic disruptions and fender benders on I-5 didn’t send
an alert?

To JL: As someone who worked with the Special Events Office
on a small-ish West Seattle festival for several years, my take is that this
incident has little or nothing to do with them. They were meticulous and on
point in their dealings with me/us and I don’t think finger-pointing at them in
this situation is relevant.

Mike August 5, 2024 (5:23 am)

“Who planned this flyover and did anyone vet this?” No, the United States military randomly flew a multimillion dollar jet for giggles, low across Seattle near two major airports, just to make noise.
- Karen B August 6, 2024 (12:01 am)
  
  Mike – My question, taken out of context, might seem to beg
  a response like the one you’ve made. What I was asking though is: did anyone,
  or who, vet such a close fly-by of Providence Mt St Vincent? I can’t imagine
  that the folks at the Special Events Office (when I interacted with them 5-ish
  years ago) would have done so…without requiring notifications to the
  neighborhood(s) that would be impacted.
  
  So that begs the question, how much thought went into the path, speed and altitude that this Growler flew? I don’t think they did it “just for
  giggles” – but I think it may have been poorly thought out or not thought out
  at all – or perhaps someone was feeling entitled. A note on the overall SeaFair
  schedule that a Growler was going to be part of the airshow over the lake around
  1 PM doesn’t count for notifying the neighborhood.
  
  By the way, I enjoy the Blue Angels each year – not because “it’s
  the sound of freedom” – but because I live in Seattle and their shows are part
  of my history too. I enjoy the precision of their show – and the notification about
  when it’s happening. A single loud, fast plane buzzing low over West Seattle
  doesn’t generate those warm, fuzzy feelings for me that some here think I should
  be feeling.
  
  I suspect that those who think that we are
  overreacting, may not be pet owners, parents of little ones too young to understand,
  family members or staff at The Mount, or wildlife – who don’t seem to get a vote.

Tired of the BS August 5, 2024 (12:08 am)

Some of these comments are precious. My favorite Abraham Lincoln quote he once said on twitter, “opinions are like … and everyone has one” but seriously folks, complaining about Seafair and their shenanigans is like complaining about the parades in June. Get over it, it’s Seattle…

22blades August 5, 2024 (3:02 am)

There’s a lieutenant in NAS Whidbey that’s “‘splainin'” his very last airshow assignment to his Commanding Officer & a squadron Public Affairs Officer that’s on the phone instead of debriefing a beer.

AG August 5, 2024 (12:15 pm)

This guy militaries :-D

Bob August 5, 2024 (4:05 am)

My understanding is that the pilots are told how low they are aloud to fly. Some follow the rules and some never fly in military again. All it takes is one time of them breaking the rules and the are stripped of their wings as soon as they land.

Silas Elwood August 5, 2024 (5:13 am)

I would have paid money to have been there maybe fingers in my ears but wow. Thank you pilots and seafair for an unforgettable weekend.

sherry August 5, 2024 (6:02 am)

Get over it people, it is only once a year and it is really not that bad. the sound only last for a few seconds at it’s peak. I have heard low flying helicopters almost as loud. .

Runner August 5, 2024 (7:09 am)

Love the Blue Angels and all of the aircraft that participate in the Seafair air show for four days every summer! The only problem is every time I hear them I can’t get outside quick enough.

Andy Parypa August 5, 2024 (7:14 am)

I was standing on my front porch when what ever it was flew by. I got a great view of it and experienced one of the loudest noises I’ve ever heard. I loved it, but I think I probably lost more hearing to add to the hearing loss I’ve suffered from playing in loud rock and roll bands for about 60 of my 81 years of life.

Jeff P August 5, 2024 (8:06 am)

The military spending is so wasteful. It is seriously time to stop this sideshow tradition. Pollution is not worth a rinky dink firework display of noise and ooh-ahhs of jets. Build libraries instead of a jet show.

Robin August 5, 2024 (8:10 am)

My friend and I were walking dogs outside Jefferson Park golf course on Beacon Hill around 1pm. We were blindsided by the noise-it sounded and felt like a bomb exploded. My friend’s Apple Watch alerted her to high decibles. Our hearts were pounding and ears were ringing. Never have experienced something like that and I’ve lived through many Seafairs.

Fearful August 5, 2024 (8:35 am)

Live in Junction, used to Blue Angels’ sound, but never heard any roar as frightening and disturbing as that terrible sound was. The sound was so sudden, so loud and got increasingly louder actually thought the world may be coming to an end. Exceedingly painful and physiological response took a while to die down. Whatever it was, it was cruel. Will write to put an end to it.

Javier August 5, 2024 (8:39 am)

Working downtown in an office of mainly Gen Z and Milleninals, most of us don’t enjoy the Blue Angels or Seafair and the noise when we’re trying to work. Either that or are indifferent. It’s a big stretch saying 50% of Seattle residents support this event. Seafair is a thing for older suburbanites, that’s the only time they will come to Rainier Valley.

Latchkey August 5, 2024 (10:21 am)

Speak for yourself, there was a large group of millennials and gen z on my office roof top watching the blue angels and it was cool to see.

Sillygoose August 5, 2024 (9:07 am)

We truly enjoy the jets, it is thrilling to see our military showing off for us and we love it!! Only last a few minutes once a year. I believe this bad boy is responsible for the loundness.

Seafair lover August 5, 2024 (9:35 am)

So many complaints about 15 seconds of noise. Its once a year. Do you complain about the sirens from an ambulance or fire truck? Car horns and alarms? If you are so touchy about a few seconds of noise, perhaps you should live in a cave somewhere OUTSIDE the city. Why is everyone so uptight all the time?

AK August 5, 2024 (9:57 am)

This was awesome! Flew directly over our house! Loved it! Respect your military! Cant wait for next year just like every year!

Fred August 5, 2024 (10:21 am)

I heard it, too, and it set off 3 car alarms near me as I walked my dog. It was awful and like others here, I’ve never heard that kind of noise during Seafair. Very disturbing to my ears and those of my pup – among others. We walked by a house where a little girl was crying because of it.

IronyIsntLost August 5, 2024 (11:27 am)

Can you imagine if there was a Pickleball game at Lincoln Park at the same time what would have happened? Holy hats every bird in the city would have evacuated ;)

nrrd August 5, 2024 (12:00 pm)

All of those folks saying “it’s only a few days, just leave town” – are you going to pay for the hotel, gas, and restaurant meals for me, my partner, and our pets? …And for all of the other folks who don’t want to experience bone-shaking noise in their own homes? I love a good air show, but they don’t have to take place over densely populated areas. The worst part of this one is that we were timing pet sedation to peak for Blue Angels time, and the Growlers were not only a timing surprise, but much louder.

Curtis August 5, 2024 (1:50 pm)

“Timing pet sedation” lol. First world problems haha. I think it is the pet owners who need a sedative. :)

TJ August 5, 2024 (12:10 pm)

I was outside at the farmers market when the plane went by. It was the loudest jet noise I’ve ever heard and I’ve been to many air shows. I thought something was going wrong. I fully expected noise from the Blue Angels around 3-4 PM but did not expect this plane. As it got closer, I was able to plug my ears and hopefully avoid damage. The friend I went to the market with said their ears were still hurting hours later. That sound was too loud to be exposed to outside with no hearing protection, and I saw many people at the market covering their ears and young kids crying afterward because they were scared. I will write in feedback about that plane in particular.

ttt August 5, 2024 (1:02 pm)

It was AWESOME!!!!! The sound of that power! I ran to the deck but it was too late to see the plane.

Look Both Ways August 5, 2024 (1:09 pm)

I’ve lived in several major US cities who host air shows, to the delight and appreciation of their citizens. Since moving to West Seattle, I’ve often wondered why it has such a high density of speed bumps. I’m beginning to understand.

Susan August 5, 2024 (2:52 pm)

Standing in my North Admiral kitchen when it flew over…it was nothing like the usual Blue Angels fly overs. The noise was incredibly frightening, my immediate thought was that it was a BA about to crash, the sound and vibration actually knocked over a cup on my counter. Our dog also totally freaked out. Disheartening to see some folks on this thread acting like it was a big nothing, exciting, or leave town if you don’t like Seafair, etc. But not surprising given the sorry state of civil discourse in recent years.

WSE August 5, 2024 (3:05 pm)

Thank you for the explanation of what occurred over WS during one of the air show performances. That day we decided to go to lunch and a movie and returned home to our dog hiding under the bed, a big piddle on the floor and our cat cowering deep in the back corner of a closet. We kept wondering “what happened ?” That night, both our dog and cat slept under the covers on our bed – not the norm, and uncomfortable for us. Now we know the answer. We are big supporters of Seafair and demonstration aircraft in general (retired Boeing). With that said, there are FAA rules regarding “booming” residential areas. The reverb of the noise is particularly loud over water and inside a “canyon” which is what Seattle is between the downtown sky scrapers and West Seattle. Watching the rocket jockeys is exciting but they do need to temper their performances with some common sense.

T August 5, 2024 (5:52 pm)

Hi all! I know it has been a day now, but if you have time, please report this incident and your experience to this map! https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/12b8ac72af94485d90086d94679d597eWe are collecting Growler jet noise reports to study the impacts of the jets and keep our elected officials aware of their impacts. Thank you!

Al King August 5, 2024 (6:48 pm)

T. Will do! Thanks for the link. I’m happy to let them know I LOVED everything about the Seafair air show. Looking forward to bigger and better next year!

Not that loud? August 5, 2024 (6:30 pm)

I grew up watching the hydroplanes and Blue Angels from Mercer Island, and the past few summers, my coworkers and I watch them practice from the roof of our Downtown office building. They’re awesome. This plane was unlike anything I’ve ever heard or felt. If I had known to anticipate it, that’s one thing. I could have made arrangements for myself and my (terrified) senior dog. I was inside with my windows shut, I hope those more effected are okay. And I will absolutely be pulling a Karen and providing feedback.

My two cents August 5, 2024 (7:07 pm)

Sound can vary greatly based on location. Outside my house facing west I can clearly hear bells from Holy Rosary/Hope Lutheran on a Sunday morning … only problem is that I live 9 blocks west of the churches. Sound bounces and is amplified or minimized based on your location. Just adding a potential sense of perspective on this issue.

DD August 5, 2024 (7:11 pm)

It was sudden and deafening in North Admiral between SW Walker and SW College and I had no opportunity to cover my ears. Already suffer from significant hearing loss and was devastated and fear additional loss. This was not the customary Blue Angel roar. So close and occurred outside the timing for the air show so I was totally unprepared. Learning more from others’ comments and accounts. Wondering how this flight was ever cleared….or whether it was rogue.

bill August 5, 2024 (8:06 pm)

Many of West Seattle’s sociopaths have self-identified themselves here. I happened to miss this incident. My neighbor and her son were not so lucky, they were at the Farmers’ Market. A day later, she says her ears still hurt. This stunt is inexcusable.

Rhonda August 5, 2024 (11:11 pm)

So, since the VAST MAJORITY of Seattle residents greatly appreciate the Blue Angels and the annual Seafair air show, they’re all sociopaths? Did you think about your comment before you posted it?

Ws J August 5, 2024 (8:44 pm)

Thee smallest of small potatoes 🤦🏽

Gary August 5, 2024 (9:35 pm)

I just came here for the comments.. “That 2 seconds of noise damaged my ears I’m certain of it! Someone said it’s the sound of Freedom and was immediately called a Republican (the worse thing you can call someone around Seattle). I’m a professional sound guy and am willing to guess how loud that was! I hope an attorney is willing to take my case! Thanks for the laughs guys! I’m no doctor but am pretty sure you’ll all be ok. Just remember those planes represent our superior air power and one of the reasons we’re still free today to complain about them!

MW August 5, 2024 (10:14 pm)

David, I was thankfully minding my freedom-loving business (which happens to currently be in a war-free part of the world, gratefully!) BEFORE having to suddenly consider impact from a rogue jet about to crashing into Admiral, at first thinking oh wow thats insanely loud then a second or two after that jumping up thinking building was about to go up in a jet fuel fireball. A civilian will never understand no matter how invested. Respect to veterans!

MW August 5, 2024 (10:20 pm)

Award to “unwarranted aggression” comment. Boo to “this is what freedom sounds like” comment. Puke. It was inappropriate. Hope the pilot was OK, and if so is held accountable for their stalking tendencies. Its always the ppl in power seats.

Sorry, comment time is over.