SEATTLE, WA — As Seafair returns to the Seattle waterfront with its iconic blend of boating events, parades, and thrilling airshows, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels are once again taking center stage. But this year, the fan-favorite flight squadron is facing louder opposition — including a lawsuit and a billboard campaign. Despite the controversy, Seafair organizers say the show will go on.
Protests Rise, But Seafair Stands Firm
The growing pushback against the Blue Angels hasn’t slowed Seafair’s momentum. Speaking with KOMO News, Seafair CEO Emily Cantrell acknowledged the criticism but said the response has largely been positive.
“Is it going to stop the Angels? Heck no!” declared KIRO Newsradio host Jake Skorheim during a segment of “The Jake and Spike Show.”
Cantrell’s team has no plans to cancel or modify the performance schedule. The Blue Angels will fly as planned over Lake Washington, much to the excitement of thousands of fans who anticipate their aerial maneuvers each summer.
Lawsuit Filed Over Cat’s Death
One of the most talked-about protests this year comes from Lauren Ann Lombardi, a Seattle woman who filed a lawsuit against the Blue Angels. Lombardi claims that their loud aerial performances in 2023 and 2024 caused extreme distress to her elderly cat, ultimately leading to the animal’s death.
According to the suit, the noise from the jets triggered intense panic attacks, dangerously elevated heart rates, and mental distress for the already ailing feline, forcing Lombardi to euthanize the cat due to deteriorating health.
Jake Skorheim addressed the lawsuit with a mix of empathy and incredulity on his show.
“We had the ‘cat lady’ on, her name is Lauren,” he said. “She partially blames the Blue Angels for her cat’s death. She said her cat had already been going through a tough time with serious health issues, including heart problems.”
Billboard Campaign Takes Aim
Beyond the courtroom, activists have taken their concerns public. A “Say No To Blue Angels” billboard recently appeared in Seattle, aimed at raising awareness about the perceived impact of the jets’ noise pollution, especially on animals, people with PTSD, and those sensitive to sound.
While this campaign has gained attention online and sparked discussion, Seafair organizers have reiterated that the Blue Angels are a long-standing tradition and highlight of the festival.
Seafair Celebrations Expand
Despite the controversy, Seafair 2025 is shaping up to be bigger than ever. New events have been added to the lineup, including Fleet Week, the Torchlight Parade’s debut at a new location, and various community-driven activities.
Meanwhile, weather conditions are expected to vary, but organizers are confident the events will go smoothly. Seafair continues to draw tens of thousands of attendees, many of whom plan trips around the Blue Angels’ visit each year.
“I’m very excited that the Blue Angels are back in town,” Jake Skorheim added. “This is one of those things that just screams summer in Seattle.”
Tradition vs. Controversy
The debate around the Blue Angels raises larger questions about noise, animal welfare, and evolving public preferences — but for now, Seafair’s leadership and its most vocal supporters are united in keeping the tradition alive.
Whether you’re drawn by the roar of jet engines or concerned about their impact, one thing’s certain: Seafair and the Blue Angels are flying forward, protests and all.
Leave a Reply