County Executive Bello announces that the United States Air Force Thunderbirds will return to headline the 2026 A.P. Property Services Rochester International Airshow

Rochester, New York – Excitement is already building across Monroe County as officials confirm that one of the nation’s most iconic aerial demonstration teams will take to the Rochester skies once again. Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, alongside the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, announced that the United States Air Force Thunderbirds will headline the 2026 A.P. Property Services Rochester International Airshow. The event is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, and Sunday, August 9, 2026, marking another major milestone for the region’s long-running aviation showcase.

The announcement brings an early surge of anticipation for aviation fans, families, and anyone who enjoys the spectacle of high-precision flight. The Thunderbirds—known around the world for their synchronized maneuvers and powerful demonstrations of fighter aircraft capability—will be joined by an impressive lineup of military performers. These include the United States Marine Corps F-35B Jump Jet, the United States Army Golden Knights parachute team, several additional aerial acts, and a range of ground-level static displays for visitors to explore up close.

County Executive Bello emphasized the significance of the Air Force team returning to Rochester, noting the pride the community feels when hosting such elite performers. “Monroe County and the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport are honored to once again welcome the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds for this special two-day performance,” said County Executive Bello. “This is a great opportunity for our community to see the expert flying of the Thunderbirds up close, as well as a number of other thrilling aerobatic performances.”

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The Thunderbirds’ history stretches back to 1953, when the team first began showcasing the Air Force’s front-line fighter capabilities. Over the decades, they have performed around the globe and taken part in several unforgettable national events—among them the rededication flyby of the Statue of Liberty in 1986 and the opening ceremonies of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta. The unit is part of the Air Combat Command and features eight pilots who alternate between precision formation flying and dramatic solo routines in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, one of the most maneuverable aircraft in modern military aviation.

Rochester is no stranger to the Thunderbirds. The 2026 performance will mark the seventh time the jet team has headlined the city’s airshow, following previous appearances in 1995, 2005, 2008, 2014, 2019, and most recently in 2023. Their return continues a tradition that has helped elevate the Rochester International Airshow into one of the region’s most eagerly anticipated summertime events. The team remains based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, where it trains year-round to prepare for its national touring schedule.

Once again, A.P. Property Services will serve as the title sponsor for the 2026 airshow. The company has been part of the Rochester community since its founding in 1990, growing from a small local business into a major employer with more than 100 team members. A.P. Property Services and owner Sean Fico are widely recognized for years of community involvement, philanthropy, and support for local organizations. Additional presenting sponsors—QuikFill, Ontario Golf Club, and Pub on the Green—will also help bring the large-scale event to life.

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For those eager to secure their spot early, tickets officially go on sale today, December 9. In keeping with the holiday spirit, the airshow is offering discounted pricing through January 4, 2026. Visitors can find ticket information and details on various discount options at www.rocairshow.com. Organizers note that more information about additional performers, attractions, and special features will be announced early next year.

With more than a year to go before the Thunderbirds roar through Rochester’s airspace once again, the announcement alone has already ignited enthusiasm. Between the high-speed F-16 maneuvers, the dramatic vertical takeoffs of the F-35B, and the precision jumps from the Golden Knights, the 2026 airshow is on track to deliver one of the most dynamic weekends the region has seen in years.

For many local families, aviation fans, and visitors from across the Northeast, next year’s event is shaping up to be a must-see celebration of skill, teamwork, and the long tradition of military aviation excellence.