Can airplanes fly real low and criss cross frequently in heavily populated cities

If this appears to be an unusual activity for ur area, then there may be a good reason for it. For examples, air-force exercises, or perhaps an airshow, as u have suggested. I am sure ur local newspaper will be able to clear up this for you.

Are they allowed to fly low or criss cross? The answer is obviously yes, because they need prior FAA permission before they fly over like this. And certainly none of this can take place without some one on the ground, guiding the pilots in their flight patterns & paths. This is the sole function of the flight controllers on ground, at each & every airport through out the country. I do not think that ur local air space is any different.

Your on the computer. Do some research. Look up your city and see whats going on!Duh.