The Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show returns to Offutt Air Force Base on August 8–9, 2026. Kris Pierce, Chief of Public Affairs for the 55th Wing and Offutt Air Force Base spoke with us ahead of the event to share what’s new.
Parking Is Back On Base
Parking is returning to the base but you’ll need a free parking pass per vehicle to get on base. Passes, along with a list of what you can and can’t bring, are available at offutt.af.mil/air-show.
Pierce noted that no matter where you’re parked, you may have to walk some distance to get to the show, so wear comfortable shoes. Handicap-accessible parking will be available in every parking area.
What’s Flying
Pierce described a lineup built around the “America 250” theme, pairing older aircraft with newer ones. The F-35 demo team headlines, along with Tora! Tora! Tora! — the pyrotechnic-heavy Pearl Harbor reenactment — making its return after not appearing for many years. The Air Force Academy’s parachute team is on the schedule, and Pierce said Army helicopters are expected as well. The Red Bull team is back also.
A rare sight: the EA-37B, the 55th Wing’s newest aircraft, will sit alongside the EC-130 it’s replacing before the EC-130 retires this September — likely the only time the two will appear together.
Beating the Heat
Pierce said organizers have quadrupled the water available on-site and added two misting stations, with medical staff prepared for another heat wave. Guests can bring empty, reusable water bottles to refill. Pierce’s two big asks for visitors: bring ear protection (especially for kids) and a water bottle.
Stay in the Loop
For weather delays or cancellations, organizers will post updates on Facebook — either the air show page, the 55th Wing page, or the Offutt Air Force Base page. Questions can go to 55WG.PA@us.af.mil.
The show is free and open to the public. Getting your parking pass ahead of time will help things go smoothly on show day.
Come back soon to our Omaha blog to learn more about the Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show 2026 with our interview with Kris Pierce.
