Travis Air Force Base Replaces Fireworks with Intel Drone Light Show

It’s another sign that drone light shows are more than just a curiosity.  Travis Air Force Base is replacing the iconic July 4th fireworks display with an Intel® Shooting Star™ drone light show.

The United States celebrates Independence Day on July 4th, and since 1777 the day has been marked by outdoor fireworks shows.  This year, tradition changes as Intel will provide a choreographed light show performed (weather permitting) at Travis Air Force Base in California.

“In celebration of July Fourth and Travis Air Force Base’s 75^th anniversary, 500 Intel Shooting Star drones will dance across the nighttime sky in a choreographed aerial routine that honors active military and veterans,” says a release from Intel’s newsroom.

“We are excited to collaborate with the Travis Air Force Base to celebrate the July Fourth holiday by bringing a new form of nighttime entertainment to honor the military and their families. I am looking forward to seeing the joy and excitement that our drone light show brings to the spectators.”
–Anil Nanduri, vice president and general manager, Intel drone team

Travis Air Force Base is collaborating with Intel to recognize active military, veterans and participants of the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). Travis Air Force Base has one of the largest Air Force EFMP populations. The program’s mission is to identify medical and educational service requirements of family members in support of active-duty sponsor reassignment and civilian employment overseas.

“This drone light show will be a more inclusive July Fourth celebration that can be enjoyed by all families, especially those with sensitives to the sounds of firework explosions,” says Intel.

“The story of the Air Force is a story of innovation. With Travis in close proximity to Silicon Valley, the base strives to develop relationships and to play an active role in Northern California’s innovation ecosystem,” said Col. John Klein, Travis Air Force Base installation commander. “For our 75^th anniversary and as a way of saying thank you for the unprecedented community support, we wanted to treat our friends and family to a special Independence Day celebration – Intel’s vision to reimagine fireworks with cutting-edge drone technology was a natural fit for our airmen and audience.”

“While fireworks amaze audiences of all ages, there are pollution and safety concerns and the loud sound effects are sometimes unsettling to humans and animals alike,” Nanduri said. “This partnership showcases how Intel’s advanced drone technologies are making strides to positively impact the world and create new entertainment experiences for all audiences.”