October 3, 2025

Huntington Beach Prepares for Pacific Airshow Without Military Aircraft

News Summary

The Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach is set to take place soon, but for the first time, it will not feature any U.S. military aircraft due to a government shutdown. Organizers announced that popular performers like the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be absent. Despite this change, the event promises thrilling performances from international teams, including the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Attendees can expect a weekend full of excitement, beach camaraderie, and impressive aerial displays, even without military participation.

Huntington Beach Gears Up for Pacific Airshow, But Without Military Highlights

It’s that exciting time of year again in Huntington Beach, where the skies are set to buzz with exhilarating performances during the Pacific Airshow. This much-anticipated event is happening from Friday, October 3, to Sunday, October 5, 2025. However, there’s a twist this time around—unfortunately, the show will not have any U.S. military aircraft taking part due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Event Changes Announced

On Wednesday, organizers shared the news about the lineup changes with a mix of disappointment and excitement. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, a favorite among airshow regulars, were slated to perform but will no longer be part of this year’s festivities. Fans of military aviation will miss seeing the sensational displays from some impressive aircraft, including:

F-35 Lightning II
F-22 Raptor
A-10 Thunderbolt

It’s worth noting that the U.S. Navy Blue Angels were not scheduled to appear in this year’s lineup, so their absence won’t impact the changes.

Exciting Performances Still Planned

Despite the absence of military performers, there are still plenty of thrilling acts lined up to keep audiences entertained. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the Royal Air Force Falcons from the U.K. are set to dazzle the crowd with their aerial displays. Additionally, fans can look forward to witnessing Aaron Fitzgerald flying the Red Bull BO-105 as well as historic World War II-era bombers, like the B-29 Superfortress and B-25 Mitchell.

Canceled Welcome Ceremony

In light of the government shutdown, the welcome ceremony that was supposed to kick off at 12 p.m. on Friday at the Joint Forces Training Base has been canceled. While it’s a disappointment, organizers are committed to providing a fantastic experience throughout the weekend.

What to Expect During the Airshow

Even though the military planes won’t be taking to the skies, the Pacific Airshow is promising “full days of thrilling performances, exciting activations, and the one-of-a-kind camaraderie and beach party atmosphere” that has made this event popular over the years. For returning spectators and newcomers alike, it’s a chance to enjoy some heart-pounding excitement in a beautiful beach setting.

Looking Back at Last Year

Last year’s Pacific Airshow wasn’t without its challenges, as poor visibility due to a persistent marine layer affected the experience. Fingers are crossed for better weather this year to ensure clear skies and optimal viewing conditions.

Join the Fun!

If you’re in the area or just want to witness some incredible flying feats, mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable weekend. The Pacific Airshow aims to capture the magic of flight and create lasting memories for all who attend, despite the hiccups faced this year.

So, gather your friends and family, grab a spot on the sand, and be part of the excitement. Who knows, even without some military might in the lineup, the Pacific Airshow will still be soaring high with fun and excitement!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Pacific Airshow Returns to Huntington Beach
Orange County Faces Community Challenges Due to Federal Shutdown
Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach Set for October 3-5
Huntington Beach to Host 9th Annual Pacific Airshow
Beach Safety Alert for San Diego Beachgoers
Tensions Escalate at Memorial for Right-Wing Activist in Huntington Beach
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

Additional Resources

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.

STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH

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Aerial display at the Pacific Airshow with aircraft and spectators

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