Air show boosts local economy

HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) - Sunday was the last day to see, feel, and hear that AirPower Over Hampton Roads and for local business owners, this weekend meant a much needed financial boost in a tough economy.

For the Lowery family of Maryland, AirPower Over Hampton Roads means more than a quick vacation and amazing acrobatics in the sky.

"We came down to the air show at Langley because our daughter flew in on a B-52...We hadn't seen her since Christmas and they're getting ready to deploy here in a little bit, so this is a good opportunity to catch up,"  Rusty Lowery said.

It gave them a chance to reunite with family and friends last night.

"We had about 20 people, 24 people at ... the County Grille and that was fun. We took the whole B-52 crew there, so that was a lot in and of themselves and then our family."

Sunday morning family time continued.

"Certainly, who could miss a morning at Waffle House, you know, they were crowded," says Lowery.

Crowded businesses is exactly what local entrepreneurs want to see.

"It's a pretty good size business boost. We love it. Like I said, it helps out the revenue, the hotels, all hotels in the area of course," said Savina Ephraim of the Quality Inn.

The Quality Inn along Mercury Boulevard is packed with air show participants and attendees.

"We all love it. People come from all different areas. North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, West Virginia, D.C.," said Ephraim.

It's great news for management and staff looking to make a little of that cherished overtime.

"Everybody's working. Nobody's got a day off."

While many are hard at work keeping patrons happy and making a welcome profit, there's another boost out there thanks to the air show, one that is also much deserved.

"The air shows are a good boost, not just for the economy but for our military to tell people thank you for their service," Lowery said.