2025 Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach

Get ready for the roar. The skies above Surf City, USA, are about to ignite with the return of the largest airshow in the United States. The Pacific Airshow is flying back into Huntington Beach from

Friday, October 3, to Sunday, October 5, 2025, for a three-day spectacle that promises to be “Bigger, Faster, and Louder” than ever before.

Since its launch in 2016, this annual event has evolved from a local favorite into a globally recognized festival, drawing millions of spectators to the iconic Southern California coastline. It’s more than just an airshow; it’s a beachfront party that blends heart-pounding aerial performances with a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Whether you’re an aviation aficionado or planning a thrilling family weekend, this guide has everything you need to know to make the most of the 2025 Pacific Airshow.

* US Military assets will not perform  including the Thunderbirds and the F-35A Demo Team at the 2025 Pacific Airshow due to the government shutdown.

Sunday – 10/5 – Performer Schedule

• 10:22 AM – Matt Jolley: Show Intro
• 10:24 AM – Opening Ceremony: National Anthems
• 10:30 AM – Luke Czepiela (PL): STOL + Aerobatics
• 10:36 AM – Jeff Boerboon: Extra 330SC Teaser
• 10:43 AM – Dawn Patrol Airshows: 7x RVs Formation
• 10:50 AM – Red Bull Helicopter: Aaron Fitzgerald
• 10:58 AM – David Costa: ISKRA Jet
• 11:09 AM – Red Bull Air Force Skydivers & Goodyear Blimp
• 11:15 AM – TBM Avenger: Ace Maker Airshows
• 11:21 AM – The Goodyear Blimp: 100 Years in the Sky
• 11:32 AM – John Collver: T-6 War Dog
• 11:39 AM – North American Rockwell: OV-10 Bronco
• 11:45 AM – Airshow Boat Rescue Team
• 11:54 AM – B-29 Doc Superfortress & B-25 “Guardian of Freedom”: Doc’s Friends & Lyon Air Museum
• 12:10 PM – Undaunted Airshows: Vans RV7 + Vans RV8
• 12:23 PM – Luke Czepiela (PL): STOL Landing
• 12:32 PM – Anthony Oshinuga: Pitts S1 Aerobatics
• 12:39 PM – Scaled Composites: Proteus + Sierra
• 12:47 PM – Royal Air Force Falcons: Parachute Display Team
• 12:58 PM – Greg Colyer: T-33 Shooting Star
• 1:10 PM – Emma McDonald (AU): Extra 330L
• 1:23 PM – Grumman Albatross: Water Landing
• 1:33 PM – Red Bull Air Force: Kirby, Aaron + Jump Team
• 1:50 PM – Airshow Boat Rescue Team
• 1:59 PM – David Costa: ISKRA Jet
• 2:10 PM – Dawn Patrol Airshows
• 2:21 PM – Jeff Boerboon: Extra 330SC
• 2:34 PM – Canadian Forces Snowbirds (CA)

Rulers of the Sky: The 2025 Performer Lineup

This year, the Pacific Airshow boasts its most internationally diverse roster to date, with elite military teams and civilian pilots from six different nations: the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Australia.

Headlining Acts and International Stars:

• *U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds: The fan-favorite headliners are set to return, painting the sky with their breathtaking precision and power.
• Canadian Forces Snowbirds: Known for their graceful nine-jet formations, the Snowbirds are a must-see act.
• Royal Air Force (UK): The world-renowned Falcons Parachute Display Team will perform intricate free-fall maneuvers, and the massive C-17 Globemaster will showcase its impressive capabilities.
• German Air Force (Luftwaffe): Making a highly anticipated appearance, the German Air Force will demonstrate the tactical versatility of its A400M Atlas transport aircraft.

Civilian Daredevils and Historic Warbirds:

The lineup is packed with incredible civilian talent, including the physics-defying Red Bull BO-105 Aerobatic Helicopter flown by Aaron Fitzgerald, French inventor Franky Zapata on his futuristic Flyboard Air, and Australian aerobatic pilot Emma McDonald.

History also takes flight with appearances from legendary warbirds, including one of only two flying B-29 “Doc” Superfortress bombers and the B-25 Mitchell Bomber from the local Lyon Air Museum.

*A Note on U.S. Military Participation: The participation of U.S. military assets, including the Thunderbirds and the F-35A Demo Team, is contingent on government funding. In the event of a government shutdown, these teams would be unable to perform. However, organizers have confirmed the show will go on, thanks to its robust lineup of international and civilian performers.

More Than an Airshow: The Festival on the Sand

The action isn’t just in the sky. Inside the ticketed event space, the beach transforms into a sprawling festival with attractions for all ages.

• The NXTGN STEM LAB: New for 2025, this interactive hub is designed to inspire the next generation of innovators. Get hands-on with flight simulators, drone racing, robot cars, and military technology showcases. On Friday, October 3, the airshow hosts “Students With Altitude Day,” providing free admission to thousands of registered local students.
• Kids Zone & Family Fun: A brand-new Kids Zone features giant inflatables, obstacle courses, and face painting, while the Drone Zone showcases the skills of elite FPV pilots.
• Meet the Performers: Don’t miss the chance to meet your aviation heroes, get autographs, and take photos at the performer signing sessions held throughout the weekend.

How to Watch: Your Guide to Tickets and Viewing Spots

You have plenty of options for catching the action, from free spots on the sand to premium, all-inclusive experiences.

Free Viewing

The airshow is visible for miles along Huntington City Beach, and you can watch for free anywhere north or south of the main ticketed area (roughly from Seapoint Street to Beach Boulevard). While this is a great budget-friendly option, be aware that you will miss the live show commentary, which is synchronized with the performances and tells the story of each act. Arrive very early to claim your spot.

Ticketed Experiences

For the ultimate experience, organizers recommend heading “inside the gates.” The ticketed precinct offers the most direct views, especially for parachute landings, and includes access to all the on-sand entertainment, food vendors, and amenities.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main ticket tiers:

• General Admission (Starting from ~$44): Your entry pass to the festival. Bring your own chairs and blankets and find a spot on the sand.
• Show Center Zone (Starting from ~$60): Get closer to the action with access to a prime area around the parachute “Drop Zone”.
• Pier Seating (Starting from ~$80): A highly sought-after ticket offering a unique, elevated, head-on view of the aircraft from the iconic Huntington Beach Pier.
• Premium & Hospitality Options: For those seeking more comfort, options like the Premium GA (guaranteed chair), the new Garden Bar, the all-inclusive Premiere Club, and private Cabanas offer reserved seating, catered food and drinks, and private restrooms.

Many oceanfront hotels, like The Waterfront Beach Resort, also host exclusive rooftop viewing parties for an elevated experience.

Know Before You Go: Pro Tips for a Perfect Airshow Weekend

Navigating an event with millions of attendees requires a game plan. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth day.

Getting There & Parking

Parking is extremely limited and traffic will be heavy. Plan ahead!

• Driving: If you must drive, arrive as early as possible. Public lots include the Main Promenade Parking Structure and lots at Pacific City and Huntington State Beach. Expect special event rates. The city beach lot between 1st and Huntington Street will be closed to the public.
• Rideshare: The designated drop-off/pick-up zone is at PCH and Huntington Street. Expect delays and surge pricing when leaving.
• Bike (Highly Recommended): The best way to beat the traffic. Use the free and secure Bike Valet located at 5th Street and Walnut Avenue, open 9 AM to 7 PM daily.

What to Bring & What to Leave at Home

Travel light for the quickest entry through security.

• Bring This: Small coolers/backpacks, beach chairs, towels, sealed or empty water bottles, sunscreen, hats, and ear protection (especially for kids).
• Leave This: Drones are strictly prohibited. Also leave behind large coolers, tents, large umbrellas (over 6ft), outside alcohol, and glass containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the 2025 Pacific Airshow?October 3, 4, and 5, 2025.
• What are the event hours?Gates open at 9:00 AM daily, with the aerial show running from approximately 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Where is the main show located?Show Center is on the sand at Pacific Coast Highway and Huntington Street, across from The Waterfront Beach Resort.
• Is the airshow free?Yes, you can watch for free from public areas of the beach, but ticketed options offer a more immersive experience with commentary and amenities.

Prepare for a weekend of awe and adrenaline. We’ll see you on the sand!