Get ready for an exhilarating weekend as Panama City Beach prepares to host the Gulf Coast Salute Airshow from April 10-12, 2026, at the Russell-Fields City Pier. This spectacular event is not just for aviation enthusiasts; it promises thrills for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a high volume of traffic expected during the weekend, attendees are encouraged to plan accordingly. For real-time updates, you can sign up by texting “PCBAIRSHOW” to 888-777.
This year, the Gulf Coast Salute Airshow is part of a grand celebration marking the 250-year anniversary of the United States, making it an event you won’t want to miss! The airshow is free and open to the public, featuring jaw-dropping performances, military displays, and a plethora of interactive experiences in the newly introduced STEM Zone at Aaron Bessant Park. Activities will include everything from Squishy Circuits and robot demonstrations to hands-on experiences with marine life and Lego cars, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
Event Highlights
The festivities kick off with a Friday Night Block Party on April 10 from 6 to 8 p.m., where you can meet the pilots and get an up-close look at the aircraft. Special performances will include the USAFA Sabre Drill Team and the USAFA Drum and Bugle Corps, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend. Main airshow performances are scheduled for April 11-12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so be sure to grab your spot early!
Among the civil performers, you can expect to see impressive acts such as Randy Ball in his MiG-17, Greg Colyer with the T-33 Shooting Star, and the Misty Blues, an all-woman parachute team. Military enthusiasts will also be thrilled to witness the precision flying of the USAF Thunderbirds and the Golden Knights, among others, showcasing teamwork and aerial acrobatics at their finest.
- Civil Performers:
- Randy Ball – MiG-17
- Greg Colyer – T-33 Shooting Star
- Michael Goulian – Goulian Aerosports
- Adam “Shake-n-Bake” Baker – Adam Baker Airshows
- Patrick McAlee – Extreme Flight
- Ken & Austin Reider – Redline Airshows
- Leland Kratcher and Stephen Covington – NexGen Eagles
- Carol Pilon – Wingwalking
- Chris Thomas & Mike Eberhardt – Warbird Thunder Airshows
- Misty Blues, All-Woman Parachute Team
- Military Performers:
- Golden Knights
- USMC MV-22 Osprey Crew
- USAF Thunderbirds
As if that weren’t enough, there’s a surprise in store during the Block Party to keep the excitement going! This airshow is not only a spectacle of aviation but also a chance to come together as a community and honor military personnel, both past and present.
For more details about the Gulf Coast Salute Airshow, including a full schedule of events, visit the official website at visitpanamacitybeach.com.
This event exemplifies the spirit of community and celebration, drawing visitors from near and far. So whether you’re a local or a traveler looking for an unforgettable experience, mark your calendars for April 10-12, 2026, and prepare for a weekend filled with high-flying action and family fun!