The United States Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron “Thunderbirds”, perform a photo chase mission over Washington, D.C. on September 12, 2025. In celebration of America’s 250th birthday next year, the Thunderbirds performed this photo chase to showcase independence and freedom of the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Breanna Klemm)
On Tuesday, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds announced they will be performing over the beach, in front of Carolina Beach, Sept. 11-12, 2027. The Cape Fear Area is one of the honored communities selected to have the Thunderbirds in 2027.
The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, performs precision aerial maneuvers demonstrating the capabilities of Air Force high performance aircraft to people throughout the world. A Thunderbirds air demonstration is a mix of formation flying and solo routines. You may learn more about the Thunderbirds on the Air Force webpage: https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104552/thunderbirds/
The Wings Over Carolina Beach Air Show, which was previously scheduled for the fall of 2025 has now been rescheduled for April 24-26, 2026. “This smaller scale air show will provide a great opportunity for our community to enjoy aerial performances and for area businesses to see the benefit and prepare for the larger air show the following year,” stated Jeff Bourk, ILM Airport Director. “We look forward to coordinating these air shows and seeing the enjoyment they bring, as well as the positive impact on local businesses from the influx of locals, visitors, and performers.
More information about the 2027 air show will be provided in spring of 2026. Leading up to the announcements, ILM will coordinate with the FAA, Coast Guard, New Hanover County, the Town of Carolina Beach, the Wilmington Police Department, the Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce, and other area stakeholders.
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About the Wilmington International Airport: The Wilmington International Airport serves southeastern North Carolina with commercial air service on American, Avelo, Breeze, Delta, JetBlue, Sun Country, and United. These seven airlines provide nonstop service to a growing number of markets, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations. In addition to commercial air service, ILM supports a growing general aviation community and has two FBOs, Modern Aviation and Aero Center Wilmington. The ILM Business Park encompasses 140 acres and is strategically located in an intermodal environment. The NCDOT Division of Aviation’s report estimated ILM’s economic impact at $3.3 billion. For more information on ILM, please visit flyILM.com
