PHX Perspective

Amelia the Airplane Flies in the Fiesta Bowl Parade

Crowds cheered and children shouted “spin, spin,” as balloons floated and handlers walked down Central Avenue Friday as part of the annual Fiesta Bowl Parade. Employees from the city of Phoenix Aviation Department were part of this event as they carried the big Amelia the Airplane balloon and waved and smiled at parade attendees.

The Fiesta Bowl Parade, which is presented by Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, is an important event in the Valley of the Sun drawing residents and visitors alike to Central Phoenix to watch the festivities. The parade features unique and colorful floats, large helium balloons, marching bands, equestrian and other special and one-of-a-kind units.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has been a participant in the Fiesta Bowl Parade for many years and is a crowd favorite. Every year, onlookers encourage handlers to spin and bounce Sky Harbor’s Amelia the Airplane balloon. This year, Sky Harbor’s 20 volunteer balloon handlers consisted of employees and their families and friends. They enjoyed being in the parade as it gave them a chance to showcase the Airport in the community.

“Being in the parade for me has always been a way to represent the Aviation Department and to get my adrenaline rush at the same time,” said Sky Harbor employee and Balloon Captain Henry Galaviz. This was Henry’s 10th year participating. “It actually allows me the opportunity to meet lots of nice people who are here visiting our city and others who represent organizations which also participate in the parade. I even get shouts from friends and family along the parade route!”

To see more pictures from the parade, click here to visit our Facebook page and see our photo gallery.

First published: 01/03/2011