FAQ's

General FAQs

After the show is over can we expect traffic delays?

Yes, please be patient as there will be approximately 75,000 vehicles trying to enter and exit the base at the same time. Although this could take up to two hours, local agencies are going to do everything possible to ensure everyone arrives and leaves safely.

Do I need to bring an ID?

Yes, all guests 18+ must bring a government issued Real ID for admittance into the show. Foreign Nationals must present a passport for admittance and legal permanent residents may show his or her green card for access.

Do the vendors take credit cards?

It varies from vendor to vendor however an ATM is available on site and is located near show center. It is recommended to bring cash with you.

How do I get Press/Media Credentials?

Media credentials will only be extended to media on assignment. Media Credential requests must be submitted in advance of air show dates on station / publication letterhead. These requests should be emailed to nasjaxpao@us.navy.mil.

How will the traffic be during the show?

NAS Jax is expecting 300,000 visitors during the air show weekend. Expect traffic delays on Hwy. 17 and the surrounding areas. The base is working with Jacksonville Sherriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Orange Park Police Dept. and the Dept. of Transportation to assist with traffic congestions.

Is it possible to watch the show from a boat in the St. Johns River adjacent to NAS Jax?

Yes. Please be aware that local law enforcement will be monitoring the restricted water zone which will be clearly marked. From previous shows, we expect over 100 boats in the water.

Is the schedule different each day?

No, the performance line up is the same every day, weather permitting. The gates open at 9 am and the show begins at 11 am. Low clouds or high winds can affect the performers' acts.

Is there shade?

There is no shade on the air show grounds. Patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly and bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Large sun umbrellas are not permitted as they block the view of other patrons and present a hazard to people’s eyes.

Other than the air show, what other attractions will be at the show?

In addition to the air show, spectators can enjoy a collection of aircraft on display, virtual games and other attractions/displays at vendor booths, food booths, souvenir booths and a kids zone with a STEM area.

Should I bring ear protection?

Yes, especially for small children. The air show will have a limited number of free ear plugs available on a first come, first served basis and some vendors will also sell ear protection.

What happens if it rains?

There are no refunds and no rain dates for the event. Check our website or Facebook for inclement weather announcements.

Will there be a station broadcasting the air show for those of us watching by boat or in our cars?

Yes, 87.9 FM radio will be broadcasting beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of air show weekend.

 

Prohibited Items

Are drones allowed?

Naval Air Station Jacksonville is a No Drone Zone. Flying your personal drones in or near the air show display area is strictly prohibited. You could face significant penalties, criminal prosecution or both. Operating your drone in the air show environment is a serious safety hazard. So, sit back, leave your drone at home and enjoy the show.

There is a FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) extending out 5 Nautical Miles from the base over land and water where the flight of any aircraft including drones are prohibited between October 15-18. 

Are pets allowed on the airport grounds?

No, pets are NOT allowed other than service animals. The crowds and noise are not suitable for pets.

Are roller skates, skateboards, bikes, or personal golf carts permitted on the airport grounds?

No, none of these items are permitted due to security and safety restrictions. Handicap scooters and electric wheelchairs are allowed.

Can I bring a pop-up tent?

No, due to safety concerns, pop up tents are not permitted. Sun umbrellas are also prohibited.

Can I tailgate in the parking lot before or during the show?

Tailgating is prohibited. Cooking grills, smokers and cookers are strictly prohibited.

If I have a concealed weapon license, can I bring my gun?

All weapons (regardless of permit) are prohibited, including firearms, knives (including pocketknives and multi-purpose tools), replica or toy weapons, pepper spray, stun guns, fireworks and all other items that the security force deems dangerous. Medical cannabis and illegal/controlled substances are also prohibited.

Is smoking permitted?

Smoking cigarettes or e-cigarettes is not permitted anywhere on the flight line in the vicinity of aircraft, vendor tents or chalets. Jet fuel is very flammable and as planes are on the tarmac during regular hours and brought in for the show, there is often fuel soaked into the cement.

May I bring a cooler?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed, and coolers are strictly prohibited. The only exceptions are refillable water bottles, which are permitted. Non-glass baby bottles and small snacks for infants are also allowed. We have a wide selection of food and beverage vendors offering a variety of options for you to enjoy.

Permitted Items

Are cameras allowed?

Yes, we want you to capture and share your air show memories. Your camera bag will be checked upon entry by security. Camera bags larger than 4.5" x 6.5" will not be permitted. If you are with the media and on assignment, please contact the Public Affairs Office for press credentials.

Can I bring a bag or purse?

Opaque bags that do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" and clear plastic or clear vinyl bags that do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12” are authorized.

Can I bring a wagon to pull my kids in?

Yes, the flight line is a large area and wagons are a great option for children that may need a break from walking. Strollers are also authorized.

May I bring a water bottle?

Our Master Concessionaire will be on-site offering a variety of drinks throughout the air show. Refillable water bottles are permitted; however, there is no potable water available on the airfield. Please note that all items are subject to search and coolers are prohibited.

May I bring lawn chairs or blankets?

Chairs and blankets are permitted and recommended for general spectator seating. If your chair has a bag carrier, please remove the chair from the bag before going through security. Once you have been searched, you may use the chair bag again.

Ticket Questions

What is the admission fee?

There is no admission or parking fee. Patrons are welcome to bring their own chairs/blankets. The earlier one arrives, the better the set-up spots.

Where do I buy biergarten or reserved seating tickets?

The reserved seating and biergarten tickets are available for purchase on the day of the show only.

Transportation and Parking Questions

Are roller skates, skateboards, bikes, or personal golf carts permitted on the show grounds?

No, none of these items are permitted due to security and safety restrictions. Handicap scooters and electric wheelchairs are allowed.

Is there a handicap area?

There is a section cordoned off for handicap, first come, first served. Look for the handicap signage. A companion may set up with the wheelchair member, but we ask that large family groups not take up space that others with handicap needs would like to use.

Is there handicapped parking available?

There is handicap parking. Please show your handicap parking placard and security will direct you accordingly.

May I ride a bike to the show in lieu of driving?

Yes, you may ride your bike to the show but please note that there is not a designated bicycle parking area.

Where do I park?

Once you enter the base, you will be guided to the nearest available parking area. Please be advised that parking is not permitted in the Target shopping center parking lot during the air show. Vehicles parked for any reason other than to shop will be towed at the owner's expense.

Supporting Sponsors

VyStar Credit Union
United Real Estate Gallery
WQIK 99.1
Xfinity
Lee & Cates Glass
Alpha Foundations
Golden Isles Striping
Omega Aerial Refueling Services