March 2020

The Los Angeles County Air Show has been a highlight of the spring season for aviation enthusiasts across Southern California, drawing families, veterans, and thrill-seekers to the Antelope Valley for a weekend of aerial performances, static displays, and STEM education. However, in light of the rapidly evolving situation regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the organizers have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 event. The announcement came on March 12, 2020, following guidance from public health officials and out of an abundance of caution for the well-being of attendees, performers, volunteers, and the broader community. This cancellation marks a significant pause in the show's history, but the commitment to aviation heritage and community engagement remains stronger than ever.

A Difficult Decision

The decision to cancel the Los Angeles County Air Show was not made lightly. For months, the organizing team had been working diligently to assemble an exciting lineup of performers, coordinate logistics, and prepare the grounds for what was expected to be another record-breaking year. The show has grown steadily since its inception, becoming a marquee event in the region and a testament to the aerospace legacy of the Antelope Valley. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic began to escalate in early March 2020, local and state authorities issued increasingly stringent recommendations to limit large gatherings and slow the spread of the virus.

The organizers recognized that the air show, which typically draws tens of thousands of spectators over a weekend, could not proceed without putting attendees at risk. In a statement released on March 12, 2020, the leadership expressed their regret but affirmed that the health and safety of everyone involved was the top priority. The cancellation was described as a proactive measure aligned with the directives of public health agencies, and the team thanked the community for its understanding and support during this unprecedented situation.

Prioritizing Health and Safety

Air shows are inherently communal events, with families spreading blankets on the flightline, children exploring interactive exhibits, and veterans sharing stories. While such gatherings foster a sense of togetherness and patriotism, they also present challenges when it comes to social distancing and sanitation in a public setting. The Los Angeles County Air Show is held at a large outdoor venue, but many aspects—such as shuttle buses, food vendor lines, and grandstand seating—would have made it difficult to maintain recommended precautions.

By cancelling the event, the organizers aligned themselves with the broader efforts to flatten the curve and protect vulnerable populations. This decision was consistent with other major cancellations across the country, as sports leagues, concert tours, and festivals all came to a halt in mid-March 2020. The air show's leadership emphasized that while the cancellation was disappointing, it was the right thing to do for the community that has supported the event for years.

"The Los Angeles County Air Show has always been about bringing people together to celebrate aviation and inspire the next generation. Right now, the best way we can serve our community is by staying apart and doing our part to keep everyone safe."

What This Means for Attendees

For those who had already purchased tickets or made plans to attend the 2020 show, the cancellation raised immediate questions about refunds and future events. The organizers moved quickly to address these concerns, working with ticketing partners to process refunds and communicate directly with ticket holders. While the logistics of refunds can be complex, the team assured the public that they were committed to making the process as smooth as possible and thanked everyone for their patience.

In addition to ticket refunds, the cancellation also impacted vendors, sponsors, and the many volunteers who donate their time to make the show a success. The air show relies heavily on community support, and the organizers acknowledged the disappointment felt by all stakeholders. They encouraged everyone to stay connected through the air show's website and social media channels for updates on future events and any rescheduling possibilities.

A Look Back at Recent Years

The Los Angeles County Air Show has built a reputation for delivering world-class entertainment and educational experiences. In recent years, the show has featured performances by military jet teams, aerobatic champions, and historic warbirds, drawing aviation legends and enthusiasts from across the nation. The 2018 show, for example, honored the 75th anniversary of Skunk Works® and included special panels with aviation pioneers. (Read more about that event here.)

One of the hallmark features of the Los Angeles County Air Show is its commitment to STEM education and honoring veterans. Programs like the Heroes and Legends Aviation History Panels have provided attendees with unique opportunities to hear firsthand accounts from military aviators and aerospace engineers. These elements have made the show more than just an aerial spectacle—it is a gateway to careers in aviation and a tribute to those who have served.

The show has also benefited from strong partnerships with local military installations and aerospace companies. In 2018, the organizers announced a partnership with Edwards Air Force Base, further cementing the region's status as a hub for flight test and innovation. (See Partners With Edwards Air Force Base.) Such collaborations have allowed the show to offer unique displays and access to cutting-edge aircraft, making it a must-see event for aviation buffs.

Looking Ahead

While the 2020 cancellation is a setback, the organizers are already looking to the future. The air show has weathered challenges before, and the team remains dedicated to its mission of celebrating aerospace heritage and inspiring young people. Plans for the next edition are already in the early stages, with the goal of returning stronger than ever when it is safe to do so. The community's resilience and passion for aviation will undoubtedly be a driving force in that effort.

For those eager to get a taste of what the air show offers, the organizers encourage exploring the rich aviation history of the Antelope Valley, often called Aerospace Valley, USA™. The region is home to numerous aerospace museums, historic sites, and industry leaders that continue to advance flight technology. In the meantime, the air show's website will remain a hub for news and updates, and the team looks forward to welcoming everyone back to the flightline in the future.

Community Support

The cancellation of the air show is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of large events, but it has also highlighted the strength of the community that supports it. Messages of understanding and encouragement have poured in from attendees, sponsors, and local officials. The air show is more than just a weekend of entertainment; it is a symbol of the Antelope Valley's identity as a center of aerospace excellence.

As the world navigates the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Los Angeles County Air Show remains committed to its core values of safety, education, and community. The decision to cancel was painful, but it was made with the best interests of everyone in mind. The organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have stood by the show and assure them that the skies will once again roar with the sound of jet engines when the time is right.