Wichita ? Accommodating thousands of visitors who flock to McConnell Air Force Base each year for its air show is daunting in normal times.

After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the American Thunder 2002 air show became a major security challenge. The show is Saturday and Sunday.

“We are anticipating up to 100,000 people a day, both days,” said Lt. Jenny McDonald, a base spokeswoman.

A heightened sense of patriotism, with the show coming just days after the anniversary of the attacks, and performances by the Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration team and the Army’s Golden Knights skydiving team are expected to swell the crowds to record levels.

And every one of those visitors any items they carry will have to be screened before being allowed on the base. Walk-through and wand-style metal detectors are being flown in from Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., and visitors won’t be able to bring many of the things on base that were permitted in the past.

“It will be much different than any other air show we have had here,” said Master Sgt. Jeffrey Straut, a member of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing’s security forces. “There will be some delays because of the extra steps we have to take for security.”

Also, no on-base parking will be allowed during the show.

Air show visitors can simplify their screening and speed up their entry by following a few simple rules, such as having a photo ID. Briefcases, backpacks and computers will not be allowed on base.

Once visitors have cleared the security area, they may either walk into the air show or board one of about 60 shuttle buses provided to transport them. The base will be cleared by 5 p.m. each day.