If you love planes, you are sure to enjoy these awesome air shows held annually in the U.S. See amazing stunts performed by the professional aerobatics pilots of the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels, the U.S. Air Force’ Thunderbirds, and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. In addition to watching the best pilots show off their skills, you will also be able to gaze at a wide range of planes, both the historic and contemporary, commercial and military ones. So here is the list of the must-see air shows in the country.
Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In and Expo (Lakeland, FL)
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Each mid-spring crowds of aviation aficionados head to Lakeland, Florida to attend this international aerobatics event. This excellent air show tops our list because it offers a chance to see the latest planes from all over the world. You can watch the leading military and civilian teams perform their jaw-dropping stunts as well as approach and even touch modern aircraft exhibited there. From ultralight planes to float aircraft, the range of flying machines gathered in one place is amazing. What’s more, there you will meet several pilots who can take you up for a flight in a variety of aircraft.
Dayton Air Show (Dayton, OH)
If you can’t make it to Sun’n Fun International Fly-In and Expo in Lakeland in April, then consider visiting the Dayton Air Show, held each July in Dayton, OH. This annual event boasts demos and flybys from all periods of aviation history. Visitors will be able to trace all stages of aviation development, from a replica of the Wright Brother’s B Flyer to the vector-shaped USAF B-2 stealth bomber. One of the highlights of the show is the performance of the Tora Tora Tora team that will let the spectators feel and see the airlift attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. You will be dumbstruck with awe when you see Sean Tucker perform incredible stunts in a Red Bull stunt helicopter. A visit to an aviation event like this would be incomplete without having a ride on Huey and Cobra helicopters.
Oshkosh EAA AirVenture Show (Oshkosh, WI)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMzH3dvSCrM
Another annual aviation show organized in July is the Oshkosh EAA AirVenture Show. Over 10,000 private pilots participate in it cheered by thousands of spectators at Wisconsin’s Whitman Regional Airport. Visit the show to see a variety of planes, from a humble Piper Cub and a noiseless F22 Raptor to the latest experimental aircraft, admire pilot’s skills, and watch movies about aviation.
Reno Air Races (Reno, NV)
For about half the century the Reno Air Races in Nevada has drawn a number of both professional and amateur pilots. The aviation event lasts five days during which six classes of aircraft flown by the riskiest pilots circle above Reno’s Stead Field. The participating aircraft race around 8-mile courses while aerobatic pilots entertain the guests between races. After the race, make sure you get a closer look at the famous historic planes. They have all made a significant contribution into shaping the modern day aviation as well as best military aircraft exhibited on the airfield.
Joint Base Andrews Air Show (Camp Springs, MD)
If you happen to visit Washington, DC, in September make sure you head to the Joint Base Andrews Air Show. This air show features the aviation fleet of the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Marines and Army along with aerobatic performers and participating historic planes.
Miramar Air Show (San Diego, CA)
Every year in fall, the Miramar Air Show gathers big crowds of aviation enthusiasts who come to watch aerial acrobatics that can take your breath away. The show takes place in one of the fields where the famous Top Gun was filmed. The remarkable event features U.S. Navy Blue Angels and a range of modern U.S. military aircraft, including the tank-killing A-10 Thunderbolt, fighter jets, Eagles and more, as well as military planes from the previous century.