Sky Elements Drones Set to Dazzle at Irving's Fourth of July Celebration
As the sun sets on Thursday, the skies over Irving will be transformed by an impressive display of technology and artistry.
Approximately 525 drones will take to the air during Sky Elements' much-anticipated performance at the Sparks and Stripes Fourth of July celebration. The North Texas-based company is on a mission to set a world record for the largest aerial image of a cowboy hat.
“What better way to show some Texas pride than with a giant cowboy hat in the sky?” remarked Preston Ward, chief pilot of Sky Elements.
However, the cowboy hat is merely the opening act.
On Friday, Sky Elements plans to attempt another ambitious feat: executing 26 drone shows in 26 cities across the United States within a single day.
“I’m thrilled about that one because it really showcases what makes Sky Elements special, and that’s our incredible team,” Ward added.
Sky Elements has rapidly gained recognition in the drone entertainment industry, celebrated for its bold performances and record-setting visuals. Yet, this weekend's events carry deeper significance; they represent an effort to rebuild trust following a serious incident.
In December, a holiday show in Orlando went awry when several drones malfunctioned, resulting in injuries to a 7-year-old boy who required emergency heart surgery. The incident prompted investigations by federal authorities, leading to a temporary grounding of Sky Elements.
“We have implemented numerous safety improvements since then,” Ward stated. “We reevaluated our entire process and redesigned some of our control software to incorporate new safety features, ensuring that an accident like that will never happen again.”
Among the enhancements are redundant safety protocols, the presence of two pilots at every show, and a new bubble geofence system that automatically disables a drone's motors if it strays beyond its designated area. Additionally, internal processes have been refined, and training has been intensified to meet elevated safety standards.
“December was incredibly challenging for us and everyone involved,” Ward reflected. “We are just so excited to be back at full capacity and to demonstrate what we’re known for—creating experiences that people have never seen before.”
After months of meticulous preparation, hundreds of hours of programming, and valuable lessons learned, Sky Elements is poised for success. For 13 minutes on Thursday night, they will illuminate the sky with a performance that embodies not just celebration but also pride, precision, and resilience.
