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Orlando Air Show cleared for takeoff this weekend

$150 million F-22 Raptor will be among the highlights of the Orlando Air Show.

Orlando Air Show cleared for takeoff this weekend

SANFORD, Fla. — The Orlando Air Show is cleared for takeoff once again after last year’s event was grounded by the government shutdown.

The show returns this weekend, giving aviation fans another chance to see some of the world’s most advanced aircraft up close.

On Thursday, Channel 9 got an up-close look at the F-22 Raptor, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets. The aircraft carries a price tag of about $150 million.

The crew piloting the Raptor said they’re excited to return to Orlando and inspire the next generation of aviators.

“That is one of the highlights of the weekend,” said Joshua Burdge with the F-22 Raptor Demo Team. “When we go out and do this, seeing all these little kids that are super excited, they get super hype when they watch the Raptor demo. And it is one of the most fulfilling parts of the job.”

The Orlando Air Show opens Saturday and runs throughout the weekend, with the F-22 Raptor among the aircraft featured for spectators.

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