The Air and Sea Show

Air and Sea Show

The Air and Sea Show is a large-scale air and water exhibition held annually on Miami Beach. The event, executive produced by Mickey Markoff, showcases performances by military and civilian aircraft, boats, and technology, attracting thousands of spectators. Its roots can be traced back to the Lakeshore Air and Water Show in Chicago.

2023 Hyundai Air and Sea Show promotional graphic | Executive Produced by Mickey Markoff

History

The Air and Sea Show originated from the Lakeshore Air and Water Show in Chicago. Mickey Markoff, the mastermind behind these events, envisioned an impressive display of aerial and nautical might, aimed to not only entertain but also to pay tribute to our armed forces and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of our nation’s freedom.

Recognizing the potential for a mutually beneficial relationship between corporations and the air and sea shows, Mickey Markoff introduced the concept of corporate sponsorships. This innovative approach provided companies with a unique platform for visibility and engagement, while securing funding to ensure the continued growth and success of the shows. Sponsors of the Air and Sea Show throughout the years have included McDonald’s, Shell, and its mainstay sponsor, Hyundai.

The success of the air and sea shows led to their introduction to the South Florida market in Fort Lauderdale. The warm climate and large beachfront area offered an ideal location for the event, and the shows quickly gained popularity. They have become a major draw for locals and tourists alike, turning into an annual tradition. In recent years, the event has been carried out in Miami Beach. The Air and Sea Show has become one of the United States’ largest Memorial Day weekend events. “The Hyundai Air and Sea show is all about saying thanks to the men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, and we really need to bring back the true spirit of what Memorial Day is all about,” Mickey Markoff, show’s executive producer said.

Hyundai Sponsorship

During the last several years, Air and Sea Show in Miami has been sponsored by Hyundai, a multinational automotive manufacturer. Their support has allowed the show to further evolve and expand, featuring breathtaking aerial displays, state-of-the-art military technology, and stunning pyrotechnics. The Hyundai Air and Sea Show has featured Hyundai as the main sponsor for seven years, illustrating their dedication to honoring our nation’s heroes with the Memorial Day weekend event.

Mickey Markoff as Executive Producer of the Air and Sea Show

As the executive producer, Mickey Markoff has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Air and Sea Show. Under his leadership, the show has become a highly anticipated event that not only entertains, but also educates the public about the capabilities and dedication of the U.S. military.

Gold Star Tribute

In recent years, the Air and Sea Show has incorporated the Gold Star Tribute, a heartfelt homage to fallen soldiers and their families. This initiative, executive produced by Mickey Markoff and Peter Berg, serves to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Past features have also included Rockin’ in the USA, hosted by Cuba Gooding Jr. The 2002 spectacular showcased several musical acts and other celebrities, including the legendary Celine Dion, Marc Anthony, Clint black, Jeff Foxworthy, Lonestar, Jessica Simpson, and more.

The 2020 Air and Sea Show was grounded due to the Coronavirus pandemic. However, the event was pivoted with a Blue Angels flyover, and an introduction of an initiative to nominate local heroes helping to fight the pandemic and attend to the frontlines in their hometowns. Winners of the “Salute 365” initiative were honoured with new Hyundai Sonatas.

The 2023 Hyundai Air and Sea Show

The 2023 Air and Sea Show introduced a new element, the U.S. Army SaluteFest. This event was a full day showcasing the U.S Army's top technology, innovations, and the multitude of careers available in the U.S Army. The festival featured musical acts, an interactive Display Village, a spectacular 500-piece drone show, and a fireworks extravaganza.

The 2023 Hyundai Air and Sea Show was successfully carried out in Lummus Park, Miami Beach, with several aeronautical displays carried out throughout the weekend. Following the event, misinformation circulated regarding a video featuring a B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber flying over Miami Beach. The footage in question was taken during a Memorial Day event organized by the Hyundai Air and Sea Show. This show is well-known for its breathtaking displays of military technology. Social media posts wrongly claimed that the clip indicated unusual military activity.

To shed more light on this, Mickey Markoff, the executive producer of the Hyundai Air and Sea Show, stated that the B-2 bomber made three passes during the event. So it was all part of the impressive showcase, nothing out of the ordinary.

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