By Adam Nichols
DNAinfo News Editor
Lady Liberty better watch out - tiny stunt planes are about to buzz through New York Harbor as it's turned into a slalom for a high-thrills race.
The speedy aircraft, which will zip just feet from the famous landmark, will take part in an aerobatic event that has taken three years to get city clearance, the New York Post reported.
Fifteen pilots will fly at breakneck speeds reaching 255 mph, weaving through 15 slalom gates just feet off the water's surface.
The Red Bull sponsored event is expected to draw huge crowds of up to 35,000 spectators on June 19 and 20.
"(City agencies) made me prove every step of the way what we were doing to keep the crowd safe," race director Jim DiMatteo told the Post.
It will be the first air race ever held in New York Harbor, the Post reported.
Each heat will last about 70 seconds, and will cause pilots to experience g-force that feels "like a house sitting on your chest," competitor Kirby Chambliss told the Post.
But organizers have promised to be careful not to risk any damage to the harbor's landmarks.
"The reality is, if you were even to hit a building in one of these airplanes, you probably woulnd't even break a window," said Chambliss.
"They're pretty light."
Spectators will gather at Liberty State Park in Jersey City.
Qualifying rounds will be held on June 19, with the finals - which will be broadcast live on Fox - taking place on June 20.
