The Goodyear Blimp turned a quiet morning on Jamaica Bay into an America 250 moment from the water, the runway and the sky.
I spotted the blue-and-gold airship Thursday, July 2, while kayaking near Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn.
I’ve seen dolphins, seals, skates and beaches covered with horseshoe crabs during earlier outings.
This time, the surprise came from above.
The Goodyear Blimp stopped at Floyd Bennett Field as New York prepared for America’s 250th Independence Day celebrations, including Sail4th 250 and other July Fourth events across the harbor.
Goodyear Blimp at Floyd Bennett Field
From the water, we saw the airship near the Jamaica Bay shoreline. Later, from the old seaplane ramp area near Hangar B, I watched the aircraft prepare for another lift-off.
The size made the first impression.
Then came the sound and the wind.
As the airship steadied itself near the Jamaica Bay Seaplane Ramp parking lot, the engines sent a sudden blast across the open pavement.
The effect felt different from the speed and noise of fighter jets.
This was slower, larger and more deliberate.
There is something that awes, then calms the spirit, and stirs the imagination when an airship glides overhead like a man-made cloud.
The moment linked the old aviation field, the harbor, the water and the national celebration.
Floyd Bennett Field already carries deep aviation history. On July 2, the Goodyear Blimp added a modern chapter, lifting from Brooklyn as tall ships, aircraft and fireworks prepared to mark the country’s 250th birthday.
For me, the sight also brought together two local worlds I know well: New York’s waterways and its aviation heritage.
I volunteer with boating and historic aircraft groups, including programs connected to Floyd Bennett Field and Hangar B.
The Goodyear Blimp has now moved on from New York, according to correspondence from the company.
But the brief visit left an impression from the kayak view.
From fantasy and dream, to dedication and work, we are inspired to create, and with inspiration celebrate the American Experiment, this America 250.
Editor’s note: Following four Goodyear photos by Katy Robinson used with permission.
