Beginning today, residents should expect to hear jet noise throughout the week. Work is already underway to build the expanded ticketed areas on the beach, which extends from the pier to Beach Boulevard.
“The first thing they’re gonna see is four F-15 Strike Eagles at 10:30 a.m. coming in to rip up the sky and wake everybody up,” Pacific Airshow Director Kevin Elliott said. “So, it’s just going to be absolutely everything brought to the next level.”
The popular 3-day air show will feature new fighter jet demos, aerobatics, and parachutists performing right off the coast in Huntington Beach.
This year’s event runs from Friday to Sunday, with performances each day starting at 10:30 a.m. and flying until 4:30 p.m. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to gather to watch the aircraft. Some highlights to see this year include an F-22 Raptor demonstration, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.
Other aircraft at this year’s air show include F-35 jets from the Air Force and Navy, the B-52 Stratofortress, and a P-51D Mustang.
Parking will be at a premium throughout the city, so consider alternative ways to get to the beach this weekend. Event organizers are recommending people bring sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas for protection from the sun. Current forecasts show that high temperatures throughout the weekend will be in the low 70s.
While in the past there was a concert following the airshow (in 2021 Sammy Hagar & The Circle performed), there won’t be one this year.
General admission tickets can be purchased online for $25 in advance, while walk-up tickets will be $30. Tickets will get you access to the part of the beach where performances are centered, but you’ll need to plan to bring your own chairs and umbrellas.
Food trucks and bars will be nearby, as well as restrooms.