DAYTON, Ohio — The Dayton Air Show is back after being canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What You Need To Know

  • The 2021 Dayton Air Show will be held on Saturday and Sunday

  • The 46th annual show will be held at the Dayton International Airport

  • Visit daytonairshow.com to purchase tickets.

  • The 2020 Dayton Air Show was canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Headlined by the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the 2021 CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show will launch its 46th annual show this weekend at the Dayton International Airport. 

“Hurray! We are back to a normal show,” said Scott Buchanan, chairman of the United States Air and Trade Show Board of Trustees in a written statement. “We’re so excited to return and give the people of Dayton an outdoor summer event to enjoy with family and friends . . . it’s been a long time since we have been able to do this.” 

The 2020 Dayton Air Show was canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There was also uncertainty if the state would permit a large gathering event due to safety concerns and if military aircraft would be be able to participate, officials said.

The Thunderbirds return this year and will be joined by other military favorites in the air including, the U.S. Navy Super Hornet and Legacy Flight demonstration team, the U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III demonstration team and the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, according to a press release. 

Captain Kyle Oliver, a graduate of Beavercreek High School and Ohio State University, will be flying in Thunderbird No. 6 as an opposing solo. 

Oliver was inspired to join the U.S. Air Force while watching the Thunderbirds as a teen visitor to the Dayton Air Show, officials said.

“What an awesome show we have for you in 2021,” Buchanan said. “It’s so great to be back."

Dayton Air Show officials said spectators can expect to see the following new initiatives to keep everyone safe:

  • Hand Sanitation Stations: Hand sanitation stations throughout the site for guest convenience and safety.
  • Specialty Seating: All umbrella table seating areas, Pavilion, Blue Sky Chalet, private chalets and Chairman’s Club spaced a minimum of 6 feet apart.
  • Cleaning: Tables, restrooms and other surfaces will be disinfected each day.

How to buy Dayton Air Show Tickets

Dayton Air Show tickets include Pavilion and Blue Sky Chalet specialty seating options and the bargain Synchrony Family Four Packs. Tickets are on sale at the show’s website www.daytonairshow.com. Print-at-home or print-to-mobile options are available on all website purchases.

Discount general admission tickets are also available at over 100 Kroger stores in the Dayton and Cincinnati region, officials said.