Six pilots from the Navy's elite fighter jet demonstration unit dazzled crowds Sunday, performing intricate and close-quarters maneuvers above the Florida Keys during the Southernmost Air Spectacular at Naval Air Station Key West.

There were nearly 27,000 attendees Saturday and more than 10,000 Sunday.

Department of Defense directives that military aerial demonstrations are among the cost saving measures that take effect on April 1 under automatic federal budget cuts.

The Navy said some air performances have already been canceled.

Congress ratified a plan to finance the government for the rest of the fiscal year last Thursday, but it's unclear whether any remaining Blue Angels demonstrations will continue.

The Blue Angel's flight leader said losing performances would hamper naval recruiting efforts.