SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- What are the dates/time for the airshow?
The airshow is June 10 and 11. Gates open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. both days. The opening ceremony starts at 11:15 a.m., and you won’t want to miss it. Admission is free, so bring your whole family. There is an option to get paid reserved seating tickets, which can be purchased at https://event.attendstar.com/event/show/scott-air-force-base-air-show-open-house/
Who will be performing?
We have several aeronautical demonstrations, including Tora, Tora, Tora, the P-51 Mustang, F/A-18 Super Hornet, U.S. Army Black Daggers, and MiG-17. Our main attraction will be the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who are ready to put on an exciting show for everyone. In addition to these acts, we will have fly-bys from the C-21, C-40, KC-135, T-33 “Acemaker,” B-2, and the C-17-Globemaster.
What airplanes will be available to look at on the ground?
We have a large variety of static displays for our guests to visit. One of the planes you'll be able to see is the C-17 Globemaster III, which is the newest, most flexible cargo aircraft to enter the airlift force. It is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. The aircraft can perform tactical airlift and airdrop missions and can transport litters and ambulatory patients during aeromedical evacuations when required.
Another plane we have is the A-10 Thunderbolt II, which has excellent maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude, and is a highly accurate and survivable weapons-delivery platform. The aircraft can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time and operate in low ceiling and visibility conditions. The wide combat radius and short takeoff and landing capability permit operations in and out of locations near front lines.
Other static displays also include the F-35, the B-1 Lancer, C-40 B/C, F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and KC-136 Stratotanker.
What are the different travel options to get to the base?
We recommend that guests arrive by Metrolink. Guests can take the MetroLink train to the Shiloh-Scott station where free buses will take you to the flight line for the show. Normal MetroLink train fees apply, and there will be limited parking at that location. The MetroLink shuttle bus to the airshow area will be free and is wheelchair accessible.
If you choose to drive, whether you come from Interstate 64 and take exit 19A or drive from Illinois Route 161, all drivers will be directed to any one of a combination of gates for entry. This will expedite traffic flow and parking. Drivers will be automatically directed to parking areas located on the base. Drivers will not be asked to show ID, as it is an open base from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Those with clearly marked handicap parking stickers or signs will be directed to special parking areas designated for the purpose.
Guests can also park outside of the base and walk to catch a shuttle once entering the base. Please note that there are no official parking locations outside of the gate areas and to be considerate of local business venues nearby.
Those wishing to bicycle on base are welcome to do so as well. Please follow the rules of the road.
There are a few bike racks around the base, but no central location for bikes. It's recommended that you bring a lock to secure your bicycle as it will not be allowed onto the flightline. Please also ensure bikes do not block other pedestrian areas/sidewalks/etc.
What can I bring with me?
Permitted items include strollers and wagons for toddlers, diaper bags, lawn chairs, small purses, wheelchairs and other medical equipment/devices, cameras, video recorders, and binoculars. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing ear plugs, sunscreen, plastic water bottles and a writing pen for autographs.
Guests will not be allowed to bring the following to the airshow: Weapons, drones, toys that resemble firearms, fireworks, spray paint, glass containers, alcohol, illegal drugs, bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, coolers, rucksacks, backpacks, or pets.