“Healthcare Hero Day” to Honor Frontline Workers

MELBOURNE, FL (April 26, 2021) -- The Great Florida Air Show, presented by Northrop Grumman and produced by The Air Show Network with Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB), will recognize the daily heroic sacrifices made by area frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic by designating Sunday, May 16 as “Healthcare Hero Day” in partnership with Health First.

A leading healthcare services provider on the Space Coast, Health First will distribute 1,000 tickets donated by The Great Florida Air Show to frontline workers within its network of over 9,000 associates. Tickets will be available in sets of two or four on a first-come, first-serve basis. Additionally, the Air Show will recognize all frontline workers in attendance throughout the day.

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“Speaking from firsthand experience, the outstanding professionals at Health First are true heroes for their dependability in performing medical services during the pandemic,” said Airport Executive Director Greg Donovan, A.A.E. “Our community is extremely fortunate to have these dedicated doctors, nurses, technicians, pharmacists, specialists, custodial support staff, and beyond, who have devoted themselves to providing critical care regardless of the virus or any other outside threat. While the peak of the pandemic may be behind us, it is vital for us to recognize these healthcare heroes for their bravery and professionalism during a very challenging time. We are truly grateful for their service.”

“As the leader in air show entertainment, this is our first production event in Central Florida, and we are thrilled to make a meaningful donation to the community," said Jim Breen, President of The Air Show Network.

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In their first Melbourne appearance since 2015, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will headline the Air Show on May 15-16, flying the Team’s new aircraft, the F-18 Super Hornet. Scheduled performers include United States Special Operations Command Parachute Team, Official U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demonstration Team, U.S. National Aerobatic champions Mike Wiskus of Lucas Oil Air Shows, nine-time consecutive winner Rob Holland, and Mike Goulian (Red Bull Air Races Champion), Larry Labriola piloting the Aero L-39 Albatros, Gregory “Wired” Colyer flying warbird Ace Maker T-33, and Scott "Scooter" Yoak in his World War II-era QuickSilver P-51.

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“We are thankful to the Orlando-Melbourne International Airport and The Air Show Network for recognizing, supporting, and welcoming our Health First associates as part of The Great Florida Air Show,” said Paula Just, Health First Executive Vice President and Chief Administration Officer. “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the aviation and technical ingenuity this community is known for - alongside our healthcare heroes who work tirelessly each day to create a stronger and healthier Brevard. We’re looking forward to an exciting, fun-filled event and we value the community partnerships and engagement that have helped make this day possible for so many.”

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This year’s first-of-its-kind boutique event will be reduced capacity to ensure a high-quality guest experience and social distancing. Tables seating four each will be available in the Flight Line Club. Premium Boxes and additional Air Show seating will be sold in sets of two and four. Each seat grouping will be socially distanced in accordance with CDC protocol. Merchandise and food and beverage transactions will be cashless.

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A static display will include the new jaw-dropping Generation 6 Florida Tech Jet Dragster featuring two-time IHRA World Champion Jet Dragster driver Elaine Larsen and the Florida Tech Jet Racing Team.

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Table, seating tickets, and limited General Admission tickets are available now at www.greatfloridaairshow.com. Tickets will not be sold on-site during show days. Parking for the event is free and upgraded VIP parking is available for purchase.

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About Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB)

Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is Central Florida’s coastal gateway with daily service on American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. MLB continues to gain international recognition as the #1 Most Scenic Airport in North America and with the announcement of TUI UK’s decision to make MLB its gateway to Florida in 2022. Also known as an epicenter of aerospace, defense, and aircraft manufacturing activity, MLB is home to Northrop Grumman, L3Harris, Embraer, Collins Aerospace, and most recently Aerion Supersonic. To learn more, visit www.MLBair.com or follow @FlyMB on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.  

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About The Air Show Network

The Air Show Network (ASN) is the largest and most respected guest services company in North America. Founded in 1983, the Company has served over 1,000 air shows including some of the most prestigious events in aviation over the past three decades. ASN has produced Air Shows in 40 of the United States and four Canadian Provinces. For more information, please visit www.airshownetwork.com and follow @AirShowNetwork on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About Health First

Founded in 1995, Health First is Brevard County's not-for-profit, community healthcare system. The fully integrated delivery network (IDN) includes health insurance plans, hospitals, a multi-specialty medical group, and outpatient and wellness services. As a locally owned, not-for-profit organization, Health First is committed to investing in our community. Since 2012, Health First provided more than $1 billion in community support. To learn more about Health First and how we're giving back to our community, please visit HFgivesback.org.

About Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever-evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology, and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products, and services. Visit www.northropgrumman.com.

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