In The Sky

Check back here periodically for updates on the dazzling performers you can expect to see.

The US Navy Blue Angels

2020 is the US Navy Blue Angels’ 74th Anniversary and also marks the Blue Angels’ 34th year flying the Boeing F/A-18 Hornet.

The mission of the United States Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron is to showcase the pride and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps by inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country through flight demonstrations and community outreach.

USAF F-22 Raptor Demo Team

The Air Combat Command F-22 Demonstration Team at Langley Air Force Base performs precision aerial maneuvers to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the fifth-generation fighter aircraft. The team also teams up with Air Force Heritage flight exhibiting the professional qualities the Air Force develops in the people who fly, maintain and support these aircraft.

The F-22 Raptor is the Air Force’s premier 5th generation fighter aircraft. Its combination of stealth, supercruise, extreme maneuverability, and integrated avionics represents an exponential leap in warfighting capabilities. The Raptor performs both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions that are vital to the 21st century Air Force.

TORA, TORA, TORA Warbirds and Pyrotechnics

TORA TORA TORA is the Commemorative Air Force’s recreation of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that signaled the beginning of the American involvement in World War II. Designed as a living history lesson, “Tora Tora Tora” is intended as a memorial to all the soldiers on both sides who gave their lives for their countries.

A 3-D living history museum who travel to airshows and one of the oldest civilian air show acts in North America.

US Navy F-35C Airshow Team

US Navy F-35C Airshow Team, Rough Raiders Squadron (VFA) 125 from Naval Air Station Lemoore, CA.

Greg Koontz and the Alabama Boys – J-3 Cub

Flown in the 1946 Piper J-3 Cub, this act begins as Greg Koontz – farmer Clem Cleaver – climbs up on the announcer’s stand, demanding a flight lesson. Later in the show, he “steals” the plane and takes off alone, with his whole crew chasing. Grandpa shoots off a tire to get him down, and Clem lands on his pickup truck driven by Grandpa Fred as it races down the runway.

Rob Harrison, “Tumbling Bear”

Rob Harrison “The Tumbling Bear’ will perform in his red, white and blue Zlin 142C, a Czech Republic military trainer. Rob started flying with his Dad, a career Naval officer, at the age of six. By the age 13, he was doing aerobatics. Now at 78, he’s been a marquee airshow attraction for nearly 30 years. Rob is based at Cable Airport in Upland, CA and San Bernardino International Airport and resides in the resort community of Lake Arrowhead, CA with his wife Susan (also a pilot), Airport Cat and Little Bear.

Rob earned an Engineering degree from Oregon State University, a Doctorate in Law from the University of La Verne, a certificate in flight test engineering from the University of Tennessee Space Institute, and many more credentials. He’s flown for TV shows and commercials. His airshow performance is dedicated to kids! His message to kids: “If they study and work hard, they can accomplish anything they want to in life.”

Vicky Benzing, Stearman

Born and raised in California, Vicky Benzing is an accomplished pilot, skydiver, aerobatic performer, and air racer. With more than 8,500 hours of flight time, and more than 1,300 parachute jumps. Vicky has a passion for everything airborne. Her flying career has spanned more than thirty years and she currently holds an airline transport pilot rating as well as a commercial rating in helicopters, seaplanes, and gliders.

Vicky earned her PhD in Chemistry from UC Berkeley and began working in the Silicon Valley High Tech Industry.

She flew in the documentary “Mercury 13” which currently airing on Netflix. Her other film and television projects include an episode of “Ice Pilots,” an episode of “NCIS LA, and extensive stunt work in her Stearman for the short film “Niner Echo Foxtrot.”

Vicky is sponsored by the California Aeronautical University. (https://calaero.edu/)

Chuck Coleman

Chuck Coleman is an iconic local air show pilot, who has performed in hundreds of air shows throughout the country and beyond. For over ten months, Coleman has been involved in the making of the upcoming movie Top Gun: Maverick. One of his roles, was being the aerobatic flight instructor for the “Tom Cruise School of Flying” in his Extra 300L. Chuck performed over 140 flights with the actors.

Photo by Bob Driver. United States Army Golden Knights Parachute Team Champions of the skies! The Golden Knights have conducted more than 16,000 shows in 50 states and 48 countries, reaching an average of 60,000 people per show. The team has earned the U.S. Army 2,148 gold, 1,117 silver, and 693 bronze medals in national and international competition. Team members have also broken 348 world records.

The Golden Knights are one of only three Department of Defense-sanctioned aerial demonstration teams, along with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. The team is composed of approximately 95 men and women, which includes four parachute units, an aviation unit and a headquarters. The demonstration teams, which use five dedicated aircraft, perform at more than 100 events per year. The tandem section is known for taking Soldiers, celebrities and heads of state on jumps, and the competition section focuses on winning national and international skydiving events.

Photo courtesy of U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Demo Team. Official WebsiteFollowFollowFollow … And more!Stay tuned. More performers to be announced soon.

All performers, aircraft, displays and schedules are subject to change without notice.

The Air Show Experience

From the moment the first aircraft taxis onto the runway, the Los Angeles County Air Show immerses you in the thrilling world of aviation. The roar of jet engines, the graceful arcs of aerobatic maneuvers, and the heart-pounding pyrotechnics combine to create an unforgettable spectacle. Each performance is carefully choreographed and accompanied by music and expert commentary, helping you understand the skill and precision behind every pass.

The show is divided into segments that highlight different eras and types of flight. You'll witness vintage warbirds from World War II, modern fifth-generation fighters, and civilian aerobatic champions. The variety ensures there's something for everyone, from history buffs to thrill-seekers.

Heritage Flights

A particularly moving part of the show is the Heritage Flight, where modern military aircraft fly in formation with their historic predecessors. For example, the F-22 Raptor often shares the sky with a P-51 Mustang, symbolizing the evolution of air power and honoring the veterans who flew in past conflicts. These formations are a tribute to the legacy of the United States Air Force.

The Heritage Flight is more than just a demonstration; it's a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. The sight of a cutting-edge stealth fighter alongside a propeller-driven legend creates a poignant connection between past and present, leaving a lasting impression on spectators of all ages.

Pyrotechnics and Special Effects

One of the most spectacular elements of the air show is the use of pyrotechnics to simulate combat conditions. Acts like TORA TORA TORA recreate the attack on Pearl Harbor with realistic explosions, smoke, and fireballs, all carefully orchestrated to ensure safety while delivering maximum impact. The ground shakes and the sky lights up, transporting you back in time.

These effects are handled by experienced professionals who follow strict safety protocols. The result is an adrenaline-filled experience that adds an extra layer of excitement to the flying displays. It's a testament to the show's commitment to providing a truly immersive and memorable event.

Preparing for Your Visit

To make the most of your day at the air show, plan ahead. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the flight line, and bring ear protection, especially for young children, as the jet noise can be intense. Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are essential, as the show takes place outdoors and can be hot.

While the flying is the main attraction, don't miss the extensive ground displays, which offer up-close looks at aircraft and the chance to meet pilots and crew. Check the On The Ground page for details. Also, keep in mind that the schedule is subject to change due to weather or operational requirements, so stay tuned to announcements and this website for the latest information.