Aviation history was written in August 2024 when veteran air show performer Milne “CC” Pocock and the Black Rock City Air Force achieved what many thought impossible: Executing the first-ever FAA-approved laser show from an aircraft over Black Rock Desert.
The performance combined four aircraft-mounted lasers with synchronized wing-mounted pyrotechnics and lighting effects, creating an aerial display at Burning Man 2024.
“This wasn’t just another light show in the desert,” explains Pocock, who brings over 25 years of aviation experience specializing in advanced flight instruction and bush pilot training through his company, Bush Air.
With more than 8,000 flight hours, Pocock also has experience as a professional laser and pyrotechnics technician.
“Meeting FAA requirements for an aerial laser performance required months of meticulous safety planning, technical documentation, and innovative solutions to demonstrate compliance with existing aviation regulations,” he added.
The performance showcased Pocock’s ability to transform his air show expertise, flying what the team dubbed their “mutant aircraft” — complete with mounted rockets and missiles (all for show) — through the night sky while orchestrating a choreographed laser light and fireworks display.
Essential to the project’s success was Christi Masi, a pilot whose decade of experience operating at Black Rock City Municipal Airport (88NV) in Nevada proved invaluable, according to Pocock. Since 2013, she has flown into the challenging desert environment annually, including serving as airport manager in 2022. Her knowledge of the unique conditions and regulatory requirements of Black Rock City aviation helped navigate the complex approval process, he says.
“Successfully demonstrating how aerial laser displays can operate within existing aviation safety frameworks required unprecedented attention to detail,” Masi reflected after the event. “Working with the FAA to understand and meet all safety requirements has established a blueprint for future aerial laser performances.”
“The 2024 performance proved that safe, compliant aerial laser shows are possible within existing regulations,” notes Pocock. “With community support, we can expand this new form of aerial artistry in 2025, creating an even more spectacular display while maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.”
Plans are already underway for an enhanced performance at Burning Man 2025, he says, adding, the aerial laser show is available for sporting events, air shows, and special venues throughout 2025.
For more information: Bush-Air.com
