As we mark America’s 250th birthday this summer, it only feels right that the 2026 Columbus Air Show is doing it bigger and better than ever before.
Whether you want to see the fighters of the 20th Century in action or be amazed at the future of air combat with the F-35A Demo Team, there’s something for everybody to enjoy at the 2026 Columbus Air Show.
Here’s what you need to know, where you should buy tickets, and other fun things happening over the course of the weekend.
Columbus Air Show Planes and Performers Lineup
The air show is a unique blend of former military planes, helicopters, prop planes, and more. Heck, there will even be tanks at the air show! They, however, will not be flying.
Some highlights of this year’s show include the fan-favorite USAF Thunderbirds, flying in death-defying formations and showing off the hard-to-believe capabilities of the F-16 fighter jets. They are hard to miss as the red, white, and blue paint job makes them stick out in the sky from miles away.
As mentioned above, the F-35A Demo Team will be showing off the most advanced fighter jet currently in operation. With speeds up to Mach 1.6 and incredible versatility, the F-35A is a wonder of human innovation.
If you’re more interested in military history, do not fret. Flying in the skies this year include the ultra-rare P-38J Lightning, a WWII plane that seldom makes appearances beyond the West Coast of the United States. Plus, there are only 10 P-38s still operational.
There will also be P-40 Warhawks, Third Strike Wingwalking, Sherman M4 Tanks, and so much more.
You can find the full performers lineup here.
Other Attractions at the Columbus Air Show in 2026
In addition to the above performers lining the sky, there will also be a mix of attractions that stay firmly on the ground. There are meet-and-greets with pilots, planes to experience up close, and so much more.
The Air Show is also offering a Twilight Show on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring extensive pyrotechnics, fireworks, and more. It’s an entirely new way to enjoy the air show, so we highly recommend visiting around sunset for the full effect.
Find the full list of attractions here.
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Gate Times, Important Dates, and More
Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20:
- Parking Lots, Gates, and Ground Displays Open at 1:00 PM
- Opening Ceremony and Flying Begins at 3:30 PM
- Gates close at 9 PM
- Twilight Show begins at dusk
Sunday, June 21
- Parking Lots, Gates, and Ground Displays Open at 9 AM
- Opening Ceremony and Flying Begins at 12:30 PM
- Flying Ends at 4 PM
- Gates Close at 5 PM
- No Twilight Show
All performers will be performing on all 3 days barring unforeseen circumstances.
For Frequently Asked Questions, Parking Info, and more, check out the Columbus Air Show’s website here.
📍 Columbus Air Show | Rickenbacker Airport | 2241 John Cir Dr, Columbus, OH 43217 | 6/19/26 – 6/21/26
