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Orlando Air Show Canceled as Federal Shutdown Halts Military Participation

The shutdown barred military teams from taking part, prompting organizers to call off the weekend event after the Thunderbirds withdrew.

Overview

  • The Oct. 25–26 show at Orlando Sanford International Airport will not take place, organizers announced on Tuesday evening.
  • An all-civilian program was deemed unworkable due to what organizers called dramatically increased public safety costs.
  • Ticket holders will receive emails with instructions to defer tickets to Oct. 3–4, 2026 or request refunds.
  • This year’s planned lineup featured the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, a Navy F-18 Super Hornet demo, a P-51 Mustang demonstration, and stunt pilots Michael Goulian and John Black.
  • Organizers noted the Thunderbirds have already missed shows in California, Georgia, and Mississippi, reflecting wider tour disruptions during the shutdown.