The Florida International Air Show returns to Punta Gorda Airport on November 7–8, 2026, bringing two days of exciting aerial performances, historic aircraft, interactive attractions and family entertainment.
Local school-aged children can also earn free admission to the Air Show by participating in a special aviation-themed reading challenge.
Read, Earn Your Wings and Attend the Air Show for FREE
The Florida International Air Show has partnered with Charlotte County Community Services and the Charlotte Community Foundation to introduce Jet-Set & Read: Earn Your Wings Reading Challenge.
Through this community reading initiative, school-aged children can explore aviation-related books, complete the reading challenge and earn free admission to the 2026 Florida International Air Show.
Families can learn more about the program at the remaining free kickoff event:
Free Jet-Set & Read Kickoff Event
Englewood Charlotte Library
Saturday, September 26 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
3450 North Access Road, Englewood
The event will include family-friendly aviation activities, opportunities to meet real pilots and information explaining how children can complete the reading challenge and earn their free Air Show ticket.
Families who are unable to attend can contact a participating Charlotte County library for the latest information about the program.
The Florida International Air Show Returns to Punta Gorda
The 2026 Florida International Air Show will take place November 7–8 at Punta Gorda Airport.
This year’s event will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with two days of aviation, aerobatic performances, aircraft displays, interactive exhibits and activities for the entire family.
The gates open at 9 a.m., giving families time to explore everything happening on the ground before the aerial performances begin.
History, Speed and Excitement in the Sky
The updated Air Show lineup brings together aviation history, speed and world-class aerobatic talent.
Recent additions include the powerful MiG-17 jet and the legendary A-4 Skyhawk. Families will have an opportunity to see these remarkable aircraft take to the skies over Punta Gorda.
The current lineup also includes:
- MiG-17 jet
- A-4 Skyhawk
- International aerobatic pilot Aarron Deliu
- Red Bull Air Force pilot Kevin Coleman
- Franklin’s Flying Circus
- The Chuters Jump Team
- Aircraft displays and special exhibits on the ground
Additional performers and attractions may be announced as the event approaches. Performers and aircraft are always subject to change due to weather, maintenance and operational requirements.
More Than an Air Show
The Florida International Air Show is designed to be a complete family aviation experience—not simply a series of aerial performances.
Families can arrive early to explore aircraft displays, visit interactive exhibits, meet pilots and performers and learn more about aviation, space, military service and STEM careers.
The STEM Innovators Pavilion will give children and families an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics through engaging, hands-on activities.
Food vendors, community organizations, exhibitors and additional family attractions will also be featured throughout the weekend.
Why We Love It
The Florida International Air Show combines exciting family entertainment with meaningful educational experiences.
Children can see incredible aircraft up close, meet real pilots, discover careers in aviation and science and watch talented performers take to the sky.
We especially love that the Jet-Set & Read program encourages local children to open a book, discover the world of aviation and earn admission to one of Southwest Florida’s biggest family events.
It is an experience where parents, grandparents and children can spend the day together, look toward the sky and create memories that will last for years.
What Parents Should Know Before Attending
The gates open at 9 a.m. Organizers recommend arriving early because heavy traffic is expected near Punta Gorda Airport.
General admission guests may bring their own folding or lawn chairs. Chair rentals may also be available.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted, but food and drinks will be available for purchase inside the event.
There is no re-entry after leaving the Air Show grounds, so make sure you have everything you need before entering.
Aircraft can be extremely loud. Bring properly fitted hearing protection for babies and children.
The Florida International Air Show takes place rain or shine. Tickets are nonrefundable.
Always check the official Air Show website before attending for the latest schedule, performer lineup and visitor information.
2026 Florida International Air Show Details
Dates: Saturday and Sunday, November 7–8, 2026
Gates open: 9 a.m.
Location: Punta Gorda Airport
Address: 28000 A-1 Airport Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33982
Parking: Free parking is included with admission
Tickets: Adult, child, senior, veteran and active-duty military options are available
Free children’s admission: Available to eligible school-aged children who complete the Jet-Set & Read challenge
Official information and tickets: FloridaAirShow.com
Families interested in the free children’s admission opportunity should attend the September 26 Jet-Set & Read event at Englewood Charlotte Library or contact a participating Charlotte County library for the latest reading challenge information.
