Take Flight with the Fort Lauderdale Air Show

May 9-10, 2026

The AirDotShow Tour returns to Fort Lauderdale on May 9–10, 2026, turning the shoreline into a front-row seat for one of the most thrilling weekends of the year. Expect heart-pounding aerial performances, immersive VIP experiences, and the unmistakable energy that comes with watching world-class aviators take to the sky above the Atlantic. Pair the show with sunshine, ocean breezes, and everything that makes Greater Fort Lauderdale an unforgettable place to visit. 

Who is flying?

The 2026 Fort Lauderdale Air Show is already taking shape, with more performers set to be announced. Here’s who’s been confirmed so far:

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds: Experience the speed, precision, and power of one of the world’s most iconic aerial demonstration teams. Known for their high-energy formations and perfectly synchronized maneuvers, the Thunderbirds deliver a thrilling performance that highlights the skill and discipline of U.S. Air Force pilots.

Additional performers will be announced as the event approaches, so stay tuned for more high-flying talent headed to Fort Lauderdale’s skies.

Where can I watch?

From reserved beachfront seating to rooftop views above the action, the Fort Lauderdale Air Show offers several official viewing experiences designed for comfort, convenience, and unbeatable sightlines.

• Drop Zone Beach: Upgrade your day at the air show in the Drop Zone, the closest beachfront viewing area to the show center. This private, reserved beach area keeps you close to the action and away from the crowds, with live professional narration and high-quality sound throughout the show. Food and drinks are available at nearby concession stands, and dedicated restrooms with hand-sanitizing stations make for a more comfortable day overall. Convenient paid parking is available at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, just a short walk over the Sunrise Bridge. Tickets start at $25 per person.
• Sand Boxes™: Reserve your own 10' x 12' private viewing area in the sand, perfect for families or groups looking to relax and enjoy the show together. Each Sand Box includes admission for four people, along with access to dedicated restrooms and exclusive food and beverage stands just for Sand Box guests. Tickets start at $54.75 per person.
• Flight Line Club: Enjoy a VIP beach experience at show center with shaded dining tents, a catered lunch served right on the sand, and a full beverage selection including soft drinks, water, beer, and wine. Guests can choose open seating on the private beach or reserve a private box for up to four people, complete with umbrellas, premium beach chairs, and exclusive VIP parking options. Tickets start at $169 per person.
• VIP Penthouse: Touch the sky from 10 floors up at the Pelican Grand Resort VIP Penthouse, one of the most exclusive ways to experience the Fort Lauderdale Air Show. Watch jets roar by at eye level from the oceanfront rooftop balcony with panoramic views of the entire airspace. Step inside the luxury ballroom for air-conditioned comfort, upscale catered cuisine, passed hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar with select name-brand spirits, wine, and beer. Preferred parking just steps from the elevator ensures a seamless arrival and departure. Tickets are $499.

Where can I park?

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to air show weekend. With large crowds expected along the beach, choosing the right parking or transportation option helps keep your day smooth and stress-free:

• Drop Zone Beach Parking: Guests attending Drop Zone Beach can park at The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, located just a short walk over the Sunrise Bridge. This centralized option helps reduce congestion along A1A while keeping beach access simple and direct.
• VIP & Reserved Parking: Select premium experiences include parking benefits designed to make arrival and departure easier:
• Flight Line Club guests receive a reserved VIP parking pass in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, with additional exclusive options available for Reserved Box guests directly on A1A.
• VIP Penthouse ticket holders enjoy preferred parking at the Pelican Grand Resort, located just steps from the elevator to the rooftop viewing area.
• Public Parking: Limited public parking is available along A1A and nearby streets. Due to road closures and increased demand, arriving early is strongly recommended for those using public spaces.

What else can I do in the area? 

Turn your Fort Lauderdale Air Show weekend into a full coastal getaway. With the beach as your backdrop and plenty to explore nearby, it’s easy to keep the momentum going long after the jets touch down.

• Find Your Splash at Fort Lauderdale Beach: You’re already here, so lean into it. Cool off in the Atlantic, stretch out on the sand, or settle in for a beachfront meal while replaying your favorite flyovers.
• Keep Calm and Carry On at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: Just across A1A, this shaded urban oasis offers walking and biking trails, picnic spots, and a quieter escape from the crowds, all minutes from the shoreline.
• Float On with the Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale: Hop aboard and cruise the Intracoastal, passing mega-yachts, waterfront homes, and downtown hot spots. It’s sightseeing, transportation, and classic Fort Lauderdale rolled into one.
• Explore Art and Culture at NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale: Take a break from the sun and step into a cool, creative space featuring contemporary exhibitions, modern masters, and rotating collections.
• Dine Your Way Down Las Olas Boulevard: From casual cafés to polished dinner spots, Las Olas is the go-to for a post-show meal and great people-watching.

For the latest updates on performers, ticketing, and event details, visit their website.