(WAND) - A Fourth of July drone show at Coles County Memorial Airport was cut short after operators identified a critical in-flight emergency, according to officials.
In a Facebook post, airport officials said the issue happened just a few minutes into the show. Operators made the decision to abort the flight out of an abundance of caution.
The drone show was part of the airport’s July 4 celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The event also included a car show, air show and fireworks.
Airport officials said no one was hurt and no property was damaged. They said safety was the top priority, especially with an active airfield full of spectators.
“We understand this was disappointing for many spectators in the crowd and our drone show sponsor Rural King,” airport officials said.
Starlight Aerial Productions said it is investigating the cause of the incident and will work with the airport in the coming weeks to identify solutions and a path forward.
Copyright 2026. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.
