The National Championship Air Races in Roswell, New Mexico, returned for a successful second year, drawing enthusiastic crowds and top-tier pilots. From Formula One and Jet classes to the iconic Unlimited warbirds and STOL Drag competitions, the event delivered high-speed thrills and unforgettable moments.
Reno Air Races
Picture of the Day: The Races Take Off
Lisa Bentson sent in this photo from the National Championship Air Races in Roswell, New Mexico, where she’s working as a volunteer on the tow crew. Her first towing task was the P-51 racer “Miss America.” The races, which took off Sept. 16, run through Sept. 20. This is the second year for the races in Roswell after nearly 60 years in Reno.
Microsoft Flight Simulator Unveils New National Championship Air Races Expansion
Microsoft Flight Simulator is launching a National Championship Air Races expansion this October. The update includes both high-speed circuit racing and head-to-head STOL Drag competitions.
Reno Jet Racer Donated to National Air and Space Museum
The renowned “American Spirit” Reno jet racer has officially joined the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum collection. After achieving decades of record-breaking success, this highly modified Aero L-39C Albatros will soon be on public display.
Ticket Sales Open for Roswell Races
All seven classes return to race in 2026 after the Sport and Unlimited classes sat out the inaugural races in 2025. The event will also feature static and military displays and the Thunderbirds performing for the first time in Roswell.
Questions from the Cockpit: Reno reboot
Question from pretty much every pilot I know, in pretty much every state: What did you think of the National Championship Air Races in its new location?
Refunds offered to air racing fans
The National Championship Air Races (NCAR), produced by the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA), will offer race fans refunds in light of the recent withdrawal of the Unlimited and Sport race classes from the 2025 inaugural races in Roswell, New Mexico, slated for Sept. 10-14.
Competitor lineup for 2025 National Championship Air Races revealed
“Unveiling our race field is one of the most exciting moments leading up to race week,” said Fred Telling, chairman and CEO of the Reno Air Racing Association, producers of the races, which debut in Roswell, New Mexico, this year.
Unlimited Class withdraws from championship air races
This follows on the withdrawal of the Sport Class from the 2025 races.