County Executive Adam Bello announces full lineup and title sponsor for the 2026 Rochester International Airshow featuring major military and civilian performers

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County is preparing for one of its biggest aviation events yet as County Executive Adam Bello and officials at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport unveiled the full lineup and sponsorship details for the 2026 A.P. Property Services Rochester International Airshow. The announcement sets the stage for a high-energy weekend in the skies above Rochester, scheduled for Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9, 2026.

The airshow, a long-running favorite in the region, will once again be presented by Kwik Fill, the Ontario Golf Club, and the Pub on the Green, while A.P. Property Services steps in as the official title sponsor for this year’s edition. Organizers say the event will bring together some of the most recognized military and civilian aviation teams in the United States, continuing Rochester’s tradition of hosting large-scale aerial performances.

At the center of the 2026 lineup are the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, the United States Marine Corps F-35 B demonstration team, and the United States Army Golden Knights parachute team. These headline acts are expected to draw large crowds, with organizers emphasizing both the precision flying and the variety of aerial performances planned over the two-day event.

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“We are pleased to welcome A.P. Property Services as the title sponsor for our 2026 Airshow, and have an exciting lineup of acts and displays for the two-day event, headlined by the United State Air Force Thunderbirds, the F-35 B, and the Golden Knights,” said County Executive Bello. “Most importantly, a portion of the proceeds from the Airshow will go to the Sunny Mike Foundation, which does so much great work for veterans throughout our community. We look forward to welcoming all of the acts to our airport for another performance in Monroe County, an experience that promises to leave spectators on the edge of their seats!”

The Thunderbirds, one of the most recognizable military flight demonstration teams in the world, return once again to Rochester skies. The squadron, based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, has previously headlined the Rochester airshow four times in the past 12 years, appearing in 2014, 2017, 2019, and 2023. Their return continues a long-standing connection between the elite team and the Rochester community.

Another major highlight of the 2026 show will be the F-35 B demonstration, flown by Rochester native Major William Horn, a 2014 graduate of the University of Rochester. His participation adds a personal local connection to one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, bringing both technical precision and hometown pride to the event.

The Golden Knights parachute team will also take part, known for their highly coordinated free-fall performances that combine timing, control, and teamwork at extreme altitude. Alongside these headline acts, the airshow will feature a wide range of historic aircraft, aerobatic pilots, and special demonstrations designed to showcase both modern aviation and classic flying machines.

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Other confirmed performers include the Commemorative Air Force Rise Above P-51, the Class of ’45 P-51 and F4U Corsair, Carol Pilon and Third Strike Wingwalking, Craig Clifford and Britt Lincoln of the U.S. National Aerobatic Team, Rick Volker flying the Sukhoi 26, Trevor Rafferty in the Christen Eagle, and the C-17 and KC-135 refueling demonstration. The lineup also includes the Warrior Aviation L-39 and a classic jets parade, offering spectators a mix of heritage aircraft and high-performance modern jets.

Organizers say the variety of acts is designed to appeal to families, aviation enthusiasts, and casual spectators alike. From historic warbirds to modern military aircraft and aerobatic stunts, the event aims to highlight the evolution of flight while keeping audiences engaged throughout the weekend.

A.P. Property Services, the new title sponsor, said it is proud to support the event and work alongside Monroe County. “A.P. Property Services is honored to work hand-in-hand with Monroe County, and proud to be the sponsor for the USAF Thunderbirds 2026 Airshow,” said Sean Fico, President of A.P. Property Services

Community support is also a major part of the airshow’s mission. A portion of proceeds from the 2026 event will benefit the Sunny Mike Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on helping veterans in the Finger Lakes region. The foundation provides emergency relief funds to veterans facing financial instability, unemployment, and limited access to essential services, stepping in where traditional support systems may fall short.

“Thank you for choosing the Sunny Mike Foundation as your charity of choice. This will help support more veterans with emergency relief funds throughout the Finger Lakes region,” said Dr. Debra Lubberts and Beth Bigley, co-founders of the Sunny Mike Foundation.

The airshow is also expected to draw strong attendance from across the region, with tickets already set to go on sale at www.rochairshow.com. Organizers announced a limited-time promotion running from May 26 through June 2, 2026, offering a 15 percent discount on general admission, reserved seating, and VIP flight deck experience tickets for those who use the promo code FLY at checkout. Children 12 years and under will be admitted free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.

As anticipation builds, officials say the 2026 Rochester International Airshow is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious editions yet, combining military precision, community support, and high-flying entertainment across a weekend designed to leave lasting impressions over Monroe County skies.