McConnell Air Force Base is hosting the Wichita airshow in 2026, and the Thunderbirds are coming! This is one of Wichita’s biggest FREE events this Fall. Mark your calendars for October 24 – 25, 2026, for the “Frontiers in Flight” air show in Wichita and the McConnell Air Force base open house.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be taking to the skies, along with other incredible pilots and aircraft. And it’s not just about watching the planes fly! You’ll also have the chance to see military aircraft up close, explore interactive displays, and enjoy activities with the kids.
I love that we live in the Air Capital of the World, and events like this are such a fun way to celebrate Wichita’s aviation history. Plus, you can bring the whole family without paying an admission fee!
Frontiers in Flight – McConnell Air Show
Below, you will find information from the last Wichita airshow. We will update you once the information is available.
- Air Show Performance Schedule
- Other things to do/see at the Wichita Air Show
- What to Bring/What to Expect
- How to Get There/Where to Park
All attendees older than 18 must present a state or federal government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport.
What to Expect at the McConnel Air Show
There will be plenty to see and do throughout the weekend, whether your family loves airplanes or just wants to experience something a little different.
Here are some of the highlights:
- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds: Watch the famous demonstration team perform precision flying and aerial maneuvers.
- Aerial performances: See civilian aerobatic pilots, military demonstrations, and the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Wings of Blue parachute team.
- Aircraft displays: Get an up-close look at military and civilian aircraft on the ground.
- Family Zone: Kids can enjoy inflatables, hands-on activities, amusement rides, and more.
- STEM Hangar: Explore interactive exhibits about aviation, science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Ground displays: Check out tanks, supercars, flight simulators, and other attractions.
The Thunderbirds Are Coming to Wichita
The Thunderbirds are headlining the 2026 McConnell Air Show, and their performance is sure to be one of the biggest highlights of the weekend.
The team is known for flying in close formation and performing impressive aerial maneuvers. Watching the jets fly overhead is quite an experience, especially when you get to see them right here in Wichita!
According to McConnell Air Force Base, the Thunderbirds are scheduled to begin their performance at 3 p.m. on both days
When do the Thunderbirds perform?
According to McConnell Air Force Base, the Thunderbirds are scheduled to begin their performance at 3 p.m. on both days
Fun Fact: That’s me with one of my besties and her brother, who was actually a Thunderbirds pilot the last time they performed in Wichita! We got to spend time with him at the Wichita Air Show, and it was such a fun experience. It made watching the Thunderbirds fly even more special! I love having this photo and memory from the last air show, and I’m so excited they’re coming back to Wichita this year!
Wichita Air Show General Info
My biggest tip for the Wichita Air Show is to give yourself plenty of time and plan on making a day of it! Between parking, getting through security, walking around McConnell Air Force Base, and checking out all the aircraft displays and activities, there is a LOT to see and do. I would arrive early so you have time to explore before the big aerial performances begin. If you’re bringing little ones, I definitely recommend a stroller, hearing protection for those loud jets, and a little extra patience for the crowds. Pack light, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for plenty of walking. With a little planning, this can be such a fun and memorable day for the whole family!
See Military Aircraft Up Close
One of the things that makes this event so special is getting to explore McConnell Air Force Base and see aircraft that you normally only get to watch flying overhead.
The announced aircraft displays include:
- B-29 Superfortress “Doc”
- KC-46A Pegasus
- KC-135 Stratotanker
- F-35 Lightning II
- C-17 Globemaster III
- A-10 Thunderbolt II
- Beechcraft T-6 Texan II
- Northrop T-38 Talon
- Bombardier Global 8000
The lineup is subject to change depending on military operations
Tips for Attending the McConnell Air Show With Kids
This is a great opportunity to take the kids to see some amazing aircraft, but I would plan on making a full day of it.
A few things to keep in mind before you go:
- Arrive early. Give yourself extra time for parking, getting through the entrance, and finding a good spot to watch the show.
- Bring hearing protection for little ones. Some aircraft can be extremely loud, especially during the jet demonstrations.
- Dress for the weather. Kansas weather can be unpredictable in October, so check the forecast before heading out.
- Bring water and plan for plenty of walking. You’ll want to explore the aircraft and ground displays before the flying performances begin.
- Check the event rules before packing. Review the official website for updated parking instructions, permitted items, and entrance information.
McConnell recommends arriving as early as possible, bringing water, and preparing for changing weather conditions.
Is the Wichita Air Show Free?
Yes! General admission to the Frontiers in Flight Air Show is completely FREE and open to the public.
There are also optional paid upgrades for anyone who wants reserved seating or additional amenities, including premium flightline seating, an adults-only Beer Garden, and the Premier Club.
You do not need to purchase one of these upgrades to attend the air show.
What to Bring & Know Before You Go to the McConnell Air Show
If you’re planning to attend the McConnell Air Show, there are a few things you’ll want to know before heading out! Since the event takes place on an active U.S. military base, security is a little different from your typical Wichita festival. I recommend checking the official rules before you leave home so you don’t have to make an extra trip back to your car.
What to Bring to the Air Show
- Photo ID: Bring a government-issued photo ID if you’re 18 or older. McConnell required this at its last air show, so plan to have yours ready.
- Cash and a credit card: There will be no ATMs at the event. Credit cards are accepted, but bringing some cash for food and other purchases is a good idea.
- Refillable water bottle: Bring a non-glass water bottle to stay hydrated. McConnell allowed guests to bring drinking water and provided refill stations at its last air show. Check the 2026 rules for any updated restrictions.
- Stroller and diaper bag: If you’re bringing little ones, these were permitted at the previous air show. Pack only what you need and be prepared for security screening.
- Folding lawn chairs: These were also permitted at the previous event and can make watching the aerial performances much more comfortable.
- Hearing protection: The jets can be VERY loud! I would definitely bring ear protection for the kids, especially babies and toddlers.
- Comfortable shoes: Plan on doing quite a bit of walking between parking, aircraft displays, and activities.
- Sunscreen and weather-appropriate clothing: You’ll be spending a lot of time outside, so check the Wichita forecast before heading out.
Security & Prohibited Items
Everyone entering the air show should expect security screening. Vehicles, bags, and personal belongings may be searched, so take a few minutes to check your car and bag before leaving home.
At the previous McConnell Air Show, prohibited items included weapons (even pocketknives), drones, coolers, large bags, glass containers, outside food and drinks other than water, and large umbrellas. Bags were limited to one cubic foot, or approximately 12″ × 12″ × 12″.
McConnell Air Show Date, Times & Admission:
Date: Saturday, October 24 & Sunday, October 25, 2026
Time: Gates open at 10:30 a.m. each day; aerial performances run from 1–4:30 p.m.
Where: McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita, Kansas
Cost: FREE general admission
If you’re looking for a free family outing in Wichita this fall, the McConnell Air Show is definitely one to add to your calendar. With the Thunderbirds, aircraft displays, and kids’ activities, there’s plenty to enjoy without paying admission.
And don’t forget to check back before the event! I’ll keep an eye on the details as more information about parking, the schedule, and activities becomes available.
Air Show Parking and Where to Enter McConnell Air Force Base
Coming From North Rock Road:
Drive South on Rock Road. Before Pawnee, there will be signs for Air Show Parking directing you into the appropriate lane to turn Right on Pawnee. Follow signs and instructions to then turn Left off Pawnee unto the General Airshow Parking (Orange Lot at Cessna Field).
Coming from South Rock Road:
Drive North on Rock Road. After 47th Street, there will be signs for Air Show Parking directing you into the appropriate lane to turn Left off Rock Road into the General Airshow Parking (Orange Lot at Cessna Field).
Coming from West Pawnee:
Drive East on Pawnee. After Woodlawn, there will be signs for Air Show Parking directing you into the appropriate lane to turn Right off Pawnee into the General Airshow Parking (Orange Lot at Cessna Field).
Coming from East Pawnee:
Drive West on Pawnee. At the intersection of Rock Road and Pawnee, keep straight onto Pawnee. there will be signs for Air Show Parking directing you into the appropriate lane to turn Left off Pawnee into the General Airshow Parking (Orange Lot at Cessna Field).
McConnell AFB Air Show 2026
Date: October 24 -25, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day
Location: McConnell Air Force Base
Cost: FREE
For more information about the McConnell Air Force Base air show, visit FrontiersinFlight.com
3 Responses
Everything Looks fine. I would like to know if there is going to be disabilty transportation. We are bothe Retired Cmsgt.
That’s a good question. I need to look at their website or Facebook page to see if I can find the answer for you.
They will have a handicap-accessible parking lot, but I can’t remember if they say they will have transportation. If I can find out, I’ll let you know here!