CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show
🗓️ Dates & Schedule
- June 21–22, 2025 (Saturday & Sunday) at Dayton International Airport
- Gates open at 9 AM, flying begins around 11:15 AM, and the event wraps up by 6 PM both days
✈️ Star Attractions & Performers
- Headliner: U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds — returning to Dayton for the first time since the 50th anniversary show
- Other featured acts include:
- U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team
- Historic B‑29 Superfortress “Doc”
- USAF C‑17 Globemaster III East Coast Demo
- Red Bull Air Force aerobatics
- Wingwalking with Third Strike
- FighterJets Jet Demo Team showcasing tight-turning aviators
- T‑34 Mentor, Goodyear Blimp, specialty acts like Firewalkers International Pyro, Vertigo sailplanes, mini jets, and more
🎟️ Tickets & Access
- General Admission tickets are sold individually (6+), free for children under 5, and include parking. Seating is open and first-come, first-served
- Early Access tickets (7–9 AM) allow guests to explore displays before general crowds, including media parking benefits
- VIP options include Chalets, Skyview Lounge, and Aviator Alley for upgraded experiences
🌟 Extras & Community Events
- Vandalia Flight Fest on June 20, 2025 (6–10 PM) — a free, ticketed community opener featuring Thunderbird meet & greets, live music (Lt Dan Band), flyovers, food, and family fun
- Ground displays include vintage aircraft, STEM Day activities, Huey helicopter rides, Kids’ Hangar, midway entertainment, and interactive exhibits
🚗 Getting There & Parking
- Six dedicated parking lots available: General Admission, P‑Lot for VIP/Chalet/pavilion holders (shuttle service), handicap, VIP, C‑Lot (vendors), and media/photo pit access
- Arrive early to beat traffic and ensure smooth parking and entry
👥 Attendance & Impact
- The show drew approximately 75,000 attendees in 2025 for the second consecutive year despite high temperatures
- Dayton’s aviation heritage as the birthplace of flight and proximity to Wright-Patterson AFB and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force enhances its appeal
✅ Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| When | June 21–22, 2025 (Flight Fest on June 20) |
| Where | Dayton International Airport, Vandalia, OH |
| Headliner | U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds |
| Other Acts | Golden Knights, Doc B‑29, C‑17 demo, wingwalking, Red Bull Air Force, pyro teams, and more |
| Admission | Paid tickets with options for Early Access and VIP zones |
| Parking | Multiple lots; VIP shuttle available |
| Activities | STEM programming, interactive exhibits, Kids’ Hangar, static displays |
| Crowds | ~75,000 attendees each day in 2025 |
| Nearby | Aviation museums, Wright brothers landmarks, Dayton attractions |
