With the return of the Tinker Air Show on June 28–29, aviation fans will have the chance to see a wide variety of military and civilian aircraft on display and in the skies. From high-speed jet performances to vintage warbirds and cutting-edge systems, here’s a look at what’s scheduled to appear at this year’s event.
Headliners
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will once again headline the show, flying six F-16 Fighting Falcons in precision formations and solo maneuvers. Other aerial performers include:
- C-17 Aerobatic Demo – A rare look at the agility of a large cargo aircraft in flight
- KC-46 & KC-135 Demo Teams – Mid-air refueling platforms in action
- Marine MV-22 Osprey – Watch the tiltrotor aircraft transition from helicopter to airplane mode
- Team Tinker Flyover – Featuring the E-6 Mercury and E-3 Sentry based out of Tinker AFB
- USAF Honor Guard Drill Team – Known for their silent precision rifle routines
- Wings of Blue – The U.S. Air Force Academy parachute team
- Air Force Rock Band “Top Flight” – Performing live throughout the weekend
Civilian Acts and Demonstrations
Civilian and historical performances add variety and heritage to the program, including:
- Tora! Tora! Tora! – Eight WWII-era aircraft reenacting the attack on Pearl Harbor, complete with pyrotechnics
- CAF Red Tail P-51 Mustang – Honoring the Tuskegee Airmen
- Randy Ball in MiG-17F – Vintage Soviet jet with a fast-paced routine and pyro effects
- Kyle Franklin (Piper PA-18) – Comedy and dead-stick landing demo
- Britt Lincoln (Extra 330) and Craig Gifford (Staudacher S300) – High-energy aerobatics
- Trojan Phlyers – Formation aerobatics with two T-28 Trojans
Static Displays: Military and Government
Attendees will be able to walk up to and explore a lineup of static military aircraft, including:
- Bombers and Cargo Planes: B-1, B-52, C-130, KC-46, KC-135
- Fighter Jets: F-35 Lightning II, F-15C, and T-38
- Training and Recon: T-6 Texan II, E-3 Sentry, E-9, Navy E-6
- Rescue and Utility Aircraft: U.S. Navy TH-73, OA-1K Skyraider, CAP C-182/C-172
- Team Tinker Fire Department Aircraft
Civilian Static Displays
In addition to the military hardware, several unique civilian and experimental aircraft will be on display, including:
- KRATOS XQ-58A Valkyrie – A next-generation unmanned fighter
- Experimental Aircraft Association – Showcasing innovation in civilian aviation
- Warbirds: A-26, B-25 Mitchell, and the ERCO Ercoupe
Stay Updated
Organizers note that additional aircraft and performers may be added in the days leading up to the show. Visitors are encouraged to check the official Tinker Air Show website for the most current lineup and schedule.
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