California Capital Airshow returns to Sacramento with planes, parachute jumpers. What’s new?
Military jets, parachute jumpers and more will soar in the sky above Sacramento this weekend, when the California Capital Airshow returns to the Northern California city.
The air show will feature aerial stunts by groups including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Patriot Parachute Team as well as on-the-ground displays.
Here’s what is in store for 2024:
When is Sacramento air show? Where?
The California Capital Airshow takes place Saturday and Sunday at Mather Airport, 10425 Norden Ave. in Mather.
Guests can start parking at 3:30 p.m. and flying demonstrations begin at 5:30 p.m. on both days.
The event ends at 9:30 p.m. each day.
Who will perform at California Capital Airshow?
This year’s performers include the Frecce Tricolori, the Italian Air Force Jet Team.
The 10-jet team holds the Guinness World record for the most jet aircraft in a military aerobatic display team.
“With tri-colored smoke, the Italians bring the precision and skill of low-level formation aerobatics,” the California Capital Airshow said on its website.
The Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s F-35 Lightning Demo Team and U.S. Navy’s Super Hornet TacDemo Team will also demonstrate their flying prowess, this weekend, as will the Sukhoi West Demo Team of aerial acrobats.
Also taking to the sky will be the Patriot Parachute Team, a veteran-led group that “includes some of the most accomplished jumpers in the world,” according to the air show’s website.
California Capital Airshow organizers said additional performers may be added to the lineup in the days leading up to the event.
What planes, helicopters will be display?
There will be combat aircraft and trainers on the ground for eventgoers to explore.
Plans on display include the C-5 Super Galaxy M, C-17 Globemaster II and KC-10 Extender. Attendees can check out the cockpits and meet the pilots and crew.
Airplanes and helicopters from law enforcement, firefighting agencies, UPS and Fed Ex will also make appearances.
What’s new this year at Mather Airport?
According to the California Capital Airshow, there are some changes to this year’s event, including a pyro-musical fireworks finale.
The Thunderbirds will officially join Frecce Tricolori for evening performances, the air show said.
“That means you’re getting two world-famous demonstration teams at the California Capital Airshow’s 2024 Evening Extravaganza,” organizers said on the website.
How much are tickets — and how can I buy them?
You can only get tickets to the California Capital Airshow online. There won’t be any sold at the gate.
General admission starts at $45 for either Saturday or Sunday. Children 15 and under are free with an accompanying adult with a general admission ticket.
According to the ticketing page, the limit is one adult and six kids.
There are also upgraded ticket options.
Mather Club tickets get you access to private restrooms and a shaded viewing area. On Saturday, admission for adults costs $100 and youths 3 to 15 years old get in for $67 apiece. On Sunday, adults are $90 and youths $67.
Kids 2 and under are free.
The Hangar tickets include alcoholic drinks for adults 21 and over, commemorative cups, private restrooms and shaded areas. Saturday admission for adults is $125 and youths, and designated drivers are $65. On Sunday, it’s $110 for adults and $57 for youths.
There are Flight Line Club tickets, as well. Those include upgrades such as private restrooms, free drinks, buffet lunch and shaded viewing areas. On Saturday, Flight Line Club tickets are $200 for adults and $90 for youths. On Sunday, adults are $170 and youths are $85.