Smoke from California wildfires drifted across the Reno-Stead airport, making it difficult at times to see the action on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022. This was my first time attending the STIHL National Championship Air Races. I took advantage of any bit of blue sky I could find. Otherwise, there’s a background of gray.

This gallery starts with photos of jet pilot Aaron Hogue winning his heat. The 61-year-old from Paso Robles, California, died in a crash while racing the Aero L-29 Super Delfin the following day. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Condolences to his family, friends, aviation community and business associates.