The CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show, slated for July 10-11, 2021, will move to a drive-in format “to align with current health guidelines and ensure the safety of guests,” according to officials.
“It’s a unique and very exciting development,” organizers said. “The show will convert its spectator area to a drive-in theater-type parking lot. Guests will be able to purchase 20-foot x 20-foot Private Viewing Area using half the area to park their car and the other half to view the show in tailgate fashion.”
Ticket prices will start at $99 for up to six guests for general admission. Front row Platinum viewing areas for six guests will be $199. Restrooms will be located nearby and mobile concessions with food, beverages, and merchandise will be traveling the aisles if you would like to make a purchase. You also can bring in a cooler with food and beverages.
Guests, show staff, and volunteers will be required to wear an appropriate face covering and social distance when necessary. The show will provide hand sanitizers on the grounds and implement enhanced cleaning procedures in restrooms and other areas.
Headlining the show will be the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. 2021 marks the 47th anniversary of the event, held annually at the Dayton International Airport.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have the Thunderbirds in 2021 and introduce this incredible drive-in show to Dayton,” said Scott Buchanan, chairman of the United States Air & Trade Show Board of Trustees, producers of the show. “This new format is safe and will bring the utmost in convenience to our guests.”
Show attendance will also be reduced and some areas closed to accommodate current health guidelines. Specialty seating areas will not be available and there will be no static aircraft displays. The show will be broadcast over its normal public address system by announcers Rob Reider and Danny Clisham. The action will also be broadcast on FM radio.
Joining the Thunderbirds will be the U.S. Army Golden Knights, AeroShell Aerobatic Team, the Shockwave Jet Truck, all-new Lucas Oil Airshows, and Jacquie B “Ladies, it’s Time to Fly” aerobatics. Additional attractions to the 2021 show will be announced soon.
This year is a special year for the Thunderbirds in Dayton. Flying in Thunderbird # 6 as opposing solo will be Dayton native Major Kyle Oliver. Born at Wright-Patterson AFB Medical Center, Kyle went on to graduate from Beavercreek High School and Ohio State University. He was inspired to join the U.S. Air Force while watching the Thunderbirds as a teen visitor to the Dayton Air Show.
Tickets are on sale now at the show’s website. Any tickets or special seating that were purchased for the 2021 show before the change to a drive-in format will be honored at the 2022 show on July 30-31, which will be headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels or they can be refunded.