Atlanta Air Show: Your Guide to Atlanta’s High-Flying Event

The Atlanta Air Show is one of the most exciting large-scale events in the metro area, bringing military jets, stunt pilots, and parachute teams to the Georgia sky. Whether you live in Atlanta or you’re planning a visit, this guide walks you through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of air show season around the city.

What Is the Atlanta Air Show?

The term “Atlanta Air Show” generally refers to a major, aviation-focused event held in the greater Atlanta area, typically featuring:

• Military demonstration teams (such as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels or U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, depending on the year)
• Civilian aerobatic performers and stunt pilots
• Parachute and skydiving teams
• Historic aircraft fly-bys and static displays
• Family-friendly activities, kids’ zones, and food vendors

In recent years, air shows connected with Atlanta have often been hosted at regional airports outside the downtown core, which provide safer airspace and more open viewing areas. These can include locations such as:

• Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field (Peachtree City)
• Cobb County International Airport – McCollum Field (Kennesaw)
• Newnan–Coweta County Airport (Newnan)

Event names and host airports can change from year to year, so it’s important to check the most current information for the specific show dates you’re interested in.

When the Atlanta Air Show Usually Happens

Air shows in the Atlanta area are typically scheduled during spring or fall, when:

• Weather is more comfortable for all-day outdoor events.
• Visibility is better for aerial displays.
• Airlines and airports can plan around peak summer traffic more easily.

Because exact dates shift each year, it’s a good idea to:

• Check the official event page for that year’s “Atlanta Air Show” or similar branded air event.
• Follow local airport event calendars (such as for Falcon Field or McCollum Field).
• Watch local Atlanta news outlets and tourism calendars, which often promote large regional air shows well in advance.

Where the Atlanta Air Show Is Held (Local Context)

There usually isn’t a large-scale air show over Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport itself, due to commercial traffic and safety constraints. Instead, the “Atlanta” branding usually indicates that:

• The show is marketed to the Atlanta metro region, and
• The venue is a regional airport within reasonable driving distance of downtown.

Here are a few airports frequently associated with air shows that draw Atlanta residents:

*Event schedules change; always confirm for the current year.

If you’re staying in downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or near the airport, plan your route and travel time based on one of these suburban airports or another designated show site.

What You’ll See at an Atlanta Air Show

While the exact lineup changes each year, Atlanta-area air shows commonly include:

Military Demonstration Teams

You may see:

• High-speed jet teams performing synchronized aerobatics
• Solo jet demonstrations showcasing extreme maneuverability
• Tactical demonstrations such as simulated bombing runs or intercepts (performed safely over controlled airspace)

These performances are typically the headline acts and are scheduled at specific times, usually in the afternoon.

Civilian Aerobatics and Warbirds

Civilian performers often add variety between military acts:

• Aerobatic stunt planes doing loops, rolls, and precision maneuvers
• Wingwalkers (where permitted)
• Historic “warbird” aircraft, such as WWII-era fighters or bombers, flying formation or performing fly-bys
• Heritage flights, where modern jets fly alongside historic aircraft

Parachute & Special Demonstrations

You might also see:

• Parachute demonstration teams jumping with flags or smoke trails
• Search-and-rescue or helicopter demonstrations
• Fire, police, and emergency response displays on the ground

Static Displays & Ground Attractions

On the tarmac, many Atlanta air shows include:

• Static aircraft displays you can walk up to, photograph, and sometimes step inside
• STEM and aviation education booths, often staffed by local organizations and schools
• Recruiting displays from branches of the military
• Kids’ play areas, simulators, and hands-on activities

This is usually where families spend much of the day when not watching the aerial portion.

Getting There from Around Atlanta

Driving & Parking

Most Atlanta-area air shows assume you’ll drive. Common patterns:

• Parking is often off-site with shuttle buses to the show gate.
• Some years offer premium on-airfield parking at a higher cost.
• Traffic can be heavy near small regional airports, especially on two-lane roads.

Tips from a local perspective:

• If you’re coming from inside the Perimeter (I-285), plan for extra time to get out to Peachtree City, Kennesaw, or Newnan.
• Use major interstates (I‑75, I‑85, I‑20) as long as possible before turning onto smaller local roads.
• Arrive early in the morning to avoid the worst congestion and to get better parking and seating spots.

Public Transit

MARTA does not directly serve most of the regional airports used for large air shows. To use transit:

• Take MARTA rail to the closest major station (for example, College Park, Doraville, or North Springs), then
• Use a rideshare or taxi for the final leg to the airport.

This can work if you’re staying in downtown/Midtown and don’t want to rent a car, but it requires more planning.

Tickets, Seating, and Typical Costs

Ticket Types You Might See

While details change per event, Atlanta air shows often offer:

• General admission
  • Lawn or open-area viewing
  • Bring your own chairs/blankets
• Reserved seating
  • Bleacher or individual seats in a designated section
• Premium/VIP tickets
  • Shaded or tented viewing areas
  • Often includes private restrooms and sometimes food and beverages

Children’s pricing, family bundles, and military discounts are also commonly offered, but are event-specific.

Buying Tickets

Tickets for Atlanta-area air shows are usually:

• Sold in advance online with price tiers (early-bird vs. closer to the event)
• Sometimes still available at the gate, though premium sections may sell out

Because dates, pricing, and policies can change, it’s safest to purchase through the official event portal once you’ve confirmed you have the correct year and venue.

What to Bring (and What to Leave Home)

Most Atlanta air shows share similar rules, but always check the specific event’s “Know Before You Go” section. Generally:

Smart Things to Bring

• Folding chairs or blankets (for general admission/lawn areas)
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – Atlanta sun can be intense, even in spring or fall
• Ear protection (earplugs or earmuffs), especially for kids – jet teams are very loud
• Refillable water bottles if allowed, or budget for buying drinks on-site
• Light jacket or hoodie if you’ll be there early or staying until late afternoon in cooler months
• Portable phone charger – photo and video recording drains batteries quickly

Items Often Restricted

Policies vary, but commonly limited or prohibited items can include:

• Large coolers or outside food/drink (small snacks sometimes allowed)
• Alcohol brought from outside
• Drones or remote-controlled aircraft
• Pets (service animals excepted)
• Large tents or shade structures that block views

Bringing only what you can easily carry across parking lots and shuttle buses makes the day simpler.

Weather, Safety, and Scheduling

Weather Considerations in Atlanta

Atlanta weather can change quickly. For air shows:

• Light rain may cause schedule adjustments or temporary holds.
• Low clouds or poor visibility can modify aerobatic routines.
• Severe weather may delay or cancel part of the show for safety.

Organizers typically post weather updates on:

• The event’s official website
• Social media channels
• On-site announcements over PA systems

If you’re driving from north Georgia (e.g., Woodstock, Cumming, Gainesville) or from south of the city (e.g., McDonough, Fayetteville), consider that weather can vary across the metro area and plan accordingly.

Safety and Security

At most Atlanta air shows, expect:

• Bag checks at entry
• Clearly marked emergency medical tents and first-aid stations
• Security and law enforcement presence working with local agencies

If you’re going with children or a group, it helps to:

• Designate a meeting spot in case you get separated.
• Take a quick photo of each child that morning so staff can see current clothing and appearance if needed.

Family Tips for Atlanta Residents and Visitors

For Atlanta-area families, the air show can be both fun and educational:

• Use the event to introduce kids to aviation – talk about how planes fly, what pilots do, and different branches of the military.
• Many performers and military crews are willing to answer questions during meet-and-greet times near static displays.
• Local schools, scouting groups, and STEM programs sometimes organize trips; check with your child’s school or youth organization if they coordinate group attendance.

If you’re visiting Atlanta and staying in popular areas (Midtown, Downtown, Buckhead):

• Ask your hotel concierge about shuttles or group transportation, especially for larger events marketed as the “Atlanta Air Show.”
• Plan extra time to drive out of the city, especially on Saturday mornings when traffic can build early.

Accessibility and Special Considerations

Most Atlanta-area air show venues work to accommodate visitors with disabilities, but you’ll want to confirm specific details for the event you plan to attend. Common features may include:

• Accessible parking areas closer to the entrance (with appropriate permits)
• Shuttle buses that can accommodate mobility devices, in some cases
• Designated ADA viewing areas with better sight lines and reduced crowding
• Accessible restroom facilities

If you or a family member need accommodations, it can help to:

• Contact the event organizers in advance via their listed phone or email.
• Arrive earlier to allow extra time for parking and shuttle logistics.

How to Stay Up to Date on Atlanta Air Show Details

Because air show branding, venues, and lineups can change from year to year in the Atlanta area, the most reliable way to get current information is to:

• Search for the current year plus “Atlanta Air Show” or “air show Atlanta” and confirm the airport and dates.
• Check the official website linked to the event name, making sure it lists the correct Georgia location.
• Review local airport event calendars (such as Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field or Cobb County International Airport – McCollum Field) for confirmation.
• Follow local TV news, radio, and city tourism boards, which often promote major air events.

If you’re planning travel around the air show, lock in:

1. Show dates and times (including practice days that might affect traffic or noise).
2. Parking and entry details.
3. Any last-minute changes announced during the week of the event.

With a bit of planning—especially around transportation, tickets, and what to bring—an Atlanta air show visit can be one of the most memorable experiences in the metro area, whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a family with kids, or a visitor looking for something uniquely local to do.