News Summary
Huntington Beach is gearing up for the 9th Annual Pacific Airshow, set for October 3 to 5. This year’s event promises a remarkable international lineup, featuring performers from six countries and a variety of military demonstration teams. Attendees can expect thrilling aerial displays along the Orange County coast, as the airshow brings significant economic impact to the city. Tickets are now available for one or all three days. With a long-term commitment to the event, Huntington Beach looks forward to continued excitement for years to come.
Huntington Beach Set to Host the Exciting 9th Annual Pacific Airshow!
Get ready, Huntington Beach! The 9th Annual Pacific Airshow is just around the corner, scheduled to take place from October 3 to October 5, 2024. This thrilling event is expected to attract thousands of spectators flocking to the beautiful Orange County coast for a weekend packed with high-flying action!
International Showdown in the Skies
This year’s airshow is set to make history with participation from six countries, including the USA, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, and Australia. Organizers are thrilled as this event is poised to set a new standard for international participation. Fans are in for a real treat as the skies over Huntington Beach will be filled with an elite mix of military demonstration teams and world-renowned aerobatic pilots!
Meet the Stars of the Show
You won’t want to miss out on catching some of the most impressive military performers ever. Expect to see jaw-dropping feats from the following:
- U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
- Canadian Forces Snowbirds
- U.S. Air Force F-35A Demo Team
- U.S. Air Force KC-135 Demo Team
- U.S. Air Force C-17 West Coast Demo Team
- U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler Legacy Team
- U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey Demo
- Louisiana Air National Guard Bayou Militia F-15s
- U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team
As you can see, it’s going to be a spectacular aerial display!
What to Expect Leading Up to the Event
Residents should brace themselves for some intermittent jet noise starting on September 29 and lasting through the airshow. To keep the skies safe, the Huntington Beach Police Department has prohibited drones within five miles of the event. Also, for those with eagle eyes, expect to see some thrilling flyovers leading up to the big days beginning on September 29.
Tickets and Attendance
For those excited to attend, general admission tickets are now available for purchase, allowing guests the option to attend for one day or all three days of the show. This is certainly an event you won’t want to miss!
A Long-Term Relationship with the Airshow
This year’s exciting airshow comes after the Huntington Beach City Council decided to keep the airshow in town through a long-term agreement, ensuring its presence for up to 25 years. This agreement grants exclusive rights for 10 years, plus three additional five-year options. In order to accommodate the event, the city will waive certain permitting costs and even cover additional public safety personnel for the airshow.
Financial Impact on the City
It’s estimated that this popular event generates a whopping $120.7 million in economic impact for the area through attendance alone! The city plans to invest over $1 million into an environmental impact report along with monitoring local wildlife. There was also a previous settlement that granted the airshow $4.9 million after a disappointing cancellation day in 2021 due to an unfortunate oil spill.
Future of the Event
The operators of the airshow will keep all event-related revenue from parking at city lots and camping spaces until 2031. After that, the city will receive at least $10 per parking space and $100 per camping space, with annual increases tied to inflation.
While most council members recognize the event’s contribution to local revenue, some, like Councilman Chad Williams, are cautious about the economic impact estimates, indicating a need for a more thorough audit.
Environmental Considerations
Moreover, the California Coastal Commission has given a thumbs up for a five-year coastal development permit for the airshow, complete with 21 special conditions to mitigate any environmental impacts. It looks like Huntington Beach is ready for a fantastic airshow weekend!
Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend full of excitement, thrills, and breathtaking aerial performances. The Pacific Airshow is set to be a highlight of 2024!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Orange County Implements New Measures to Protect Bird Habitats
Huntington Beach City Council Approves Pacific Airshow Agreement
Huntington Beach Air Show Faces Controversy Over Permit
Huntington Beach Receives Approval for Pacific Airshow
Pacific Airshow Returns to Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach’s Pacific Airshow Takes Flight Amid Controversy
Pacific Airshow Returns to Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach Airshow Awaits Permit Decision Amid Drama
Additional Resources
- Patch: What is the Noise? 5 Things to Know About Fighter Jets Over OC
- Wikipedia: Air Show
- LA Times: Huntington Beach Deal Locks Up Pacific Airshow
- Google Search: Pacific Airshow Huntington Beach
- The Log: Huntington Beach Signs 25-Year Deal with Pacific Airshow
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airshow
- OC Register: Huntington Beach Council Approves Deal for Air Show
- Google News: Huntington Beach Airshow
- KFI: Helicopter Transport Added to Huntington Beach Airshow
- LAist: Huntington Beach Airshow Coastal Commission Approves Permit
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
