Prepare for an exhilarating weekend at MacDill Air Force Base as the Tampa Bay AirFest makes its grand return. This year’s event promises unforgettable aerial performances from all five branches of the U.S. military and first responder agencies. However, there’s a bittersweet twist – this will be the last AirFest for a while due to upcoming construction at the base.
AIRFEST POINTERS FROM THE COMMANDER AND CHIEF
AIRFEST POINTERS FROM THE COMMANDER AND CHIEF
Tampa Bay AirFest
March 29 &30
Gates open at 8:00
TampaBayAirFest.comPublicado por MacDill Air Force Base en Lunes, 25 de marzo de 2024
Colonel Adam Bingham of MacDill AFB’s 6th Air Refueling Wing announced a three to four-year hiatus for the AirFest due to $300 million in base projects. Among the highlights of this year’s AirFest is the presence of the Thunderbirds for the first time since 2016. Spectators will also have the opportunity to witness the A-10 and the Navy’s F-18 Super Hornet in action.
This year’s AirFest features honorary pilots: second graders from DeSoto Elementary. Construction to expand five historic hangars will accommodate 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tanker aircraft, arriving by 2026’s end. Colonel Bingham outlined the plans, emphasizing the base’s readiness to accommodate the new fleet.
Volunteers make preparations to the airfield at MacDill AFB, March 21. White tarp was placed on the airfield to be a reference point for pilots during Tampa Bay Airfest 2024. pic.twitter.com/lmJpyoYf8e
— MacDill AFB (@MacDill_AFB) March 21, 2024
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and plan their routes accordingly, as heavy traffic is expected. For boaters planning to catch the action from the water, it’s essential to stay clear of the MacDill Exclusion Zone. The City of Tampa has issued a reminder about road closures, urging drivers to avoid South Himes Ave. due to ongoing construction.
Read: Inferno at Mosaic Tampa Bay’s Fertilizer Plant Engulfed in Flames
As you gear up for AirFest 2024, remember to pack essentials like hearing protection, water bottles, folding chairs, sunscreen, and sunglasses. However, leave prohibited items like firearms, drones, and coolers at home. While the next AirFest may not return until 2027 or 2028, this weekend’s event promises thrills and excitement that are not to be missed. Gates open at 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Download the free Tampa Bay Airfest 2024 mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play, for event schedule, performers, static displays, gate map, food and beverage options, and more.
March 29-30 (Fri/Sat)
Gates open at 8:00AM — opening ceremonies begin at 11:30AM. pic.twitter.com/wHXsOZeGFg— MacDill AFB (@MacDill_AFB) March 20, 2024
