The U.S. Air Force has grounded a plan that would have landed an international commercial air show at Homestead Air Reserve base and now a dog fight is about to take off.
Stating, among other things, security concerns, the Air Force has denied allowing the proposed Miami International Aerospace Show from using the base's runways, which are needed to show off the planes and new technology expected to be showcased at the event.
The military's stance has Republican Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and other local officials steaming. The show, which was scheduled for November 2012, would bring tourism dollars and jobs to the area as well as put Miami on the aviation industry's map, officials said.
"During these very tough economic times, our Federal government should be encouraging economic activity and job creation, not hindering it," Ros-Lehtinen said. "The fight has just begun. We need plans like this one that would create jobs and help our local economy."
The Miami-Dade County Commission came up with more than $7 million to help make improvements to the Air Force base before the show as an incentive, but still the plan was turned down.
In a letter to the Beacon Council, the Air Force said it would give the air show plans a second look if revisions are made.
The Beacon Council, which acts at the Miami-Dade economic development arm, estimated the show would bring $350 million to the area - more than hosting a Super Bowl week.
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The show , which is modeled after a similar event held in Paris, would also give Miami officials a chance to showcase the area to aerospace companies who might be looking to relocate or set up a new location.
But all that is just pie in the sky until the Air Force gives the OK.
Ros-Lehtinen said she is planning a meeting with Air Force officials and local leaders to try to work a compromise.
"We will see the best, the neatest technology and it will bring people from all around the world to our area," she said.
