Seattle Climate Activists Protest Blue Angels Airshow Over Noise, Emissions

In Seattle, climate activists and community advocates are protesting the U.S. Navy Blue Angels' participation in the annual Seafair festival, citing concerns about noise pollution, environmental harm, and the militarization of the event. The Airshow Climate Action Coalition has erected billboards with messages like "Say No to Blue Angels," highlighting the jets' noise, carbon emissions estimated at 670 tons per weekend, and the psychological trauma they allegedly cause to residents and animals. A local resident filed a lawsuit claiming the noise triggered panic attacks in her cat and worsened her congestive heart failure, while also alleging censorship by the Blue Angels on social media. Organizers of Seafair have acknowledged these concerns and meet annually with the protesting groups but have not canceled the airshow. Critics argue the Blue Angels' performance is a wasteful display of military power that contributes significantly to pollution, with some activists calling for the removal of military flyovers from public events. Supporters of the Blue Angels emphasize their long-standing tradition since 1972 and their role in showcasing naval aviation, while opponents continue to press for new, climate-conscious event traditions.