Below you can watch our video showing the highlights from Gene Soucy’s “Fireflight” routine performed at the July 30th night airshow at EAA AirVenture 2016. Some background on the plane and Gene himself:

Gene Soucy, sometimes given the nickname “Mr. Airshow”, has been in aerobatics and airshows for almost 5 decades. Since 1968 he has performed over 3000 times and has taken part in every major North American airshow. Additionally, he was a member of the U.S. Aerobatic Team in which he became a three-time U.S. National Champion. In his career, Gene has used aircraft such as the Pitts Special S-1S, Bellanca Decathlon, Piper Cub, Cessna 150, Extra 300S, and a modified Grumman Ag Cat.

Now days, Gene uses a modified Grumman Ag Cat biplane that he calls the “Showcat”.  The aircraft uses a Pratt & Whitney R-985 engine, which creates a great sound and, as stated on Gene’s website, “has been an airshow tradition since the 1930’s.” The airplane is outfitted for wing walking,  pyrotechnics, skywriting, and banner towing, making it the perfect aircraft for shows (living up to its name “Showcat”). Detailed specs:

All video filmed by FandaGear at AirVenture 2016.

Additional info on Gene Soucy can be found on his website: http://www.genesoucy.com/index.htm