2026 MCAS Cherry Point Air Show Wrap-up

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. (May 11, 2026) — Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing concluded the 2026 MCAS Cherry Point Air Show on May 10, successfully hosting about 70,000 guests during a two-day celebration of America’s 250th birthday that showcased the strength, heritage, and future of Marine Corps aviation.

A labor force of 1,281 individuals, including 490 official staff, 641 vendors and concessionaires, and 150 sponsors and exhibitors teamed up to deliver a highly successful event.

The biennial affair delivered a full weekend of community engagement, featuring remarkable aerial demonstrations, military and aviation displays, national heritage exhibits, and family-friendly amusement, highlighting the enduring relations between the air station and the people of Eastern North Carolina.

Opening ceremonies reflected the event's historic theme as members of the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution escorted portrayals of George and Martha Washington onto the flight line, setting the tone for a celebration centered on patriotism, service, and the nation’s 250-year legacy.

The event featured performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels alongside a diverse lineup of military and civilian aerial performers who delivered one of the most dynamic flying schedules in MCAS Cherry Point Air Show history.

One of the weekend’s most notable moments came during the appearance of the Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223 AV-8B Harrier II, delivering an encore demonstration before the aircraft platform’s planned retirement from Marine Corps service in June. The event also highlighted the future of Marine aviation, as the F-35B Lightning II demonstrated the next generation of expeditionary aviation capabilities, symbolically carrying forward the legacy of the Harrier and F/A-18 Hornet and representing the continued modernization of the 2nd MAW.

The show days concluded with the awe-inspiring performance of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, whose precision flying demonstrations captivated audiences across generations. From first-time attendees to longtime air show patrons, spectators were left amazed as the team showcased the professionalism, skill, and heritage of naval aviation in the skies over Eastern North Carolina.

Additionally, patrons throughout the weekend praised the significantly improved traffic flow, parking operations, and overall event accessibility, with many attendees noting the ease and efficiency of arriving at and departing from the installation.  “Through extensive coordination with local and state agencies, contracted event traffic professionals, and installation personnel, the 2026 air show delivered a streamlined traffic and parking plan designed to support the overwhelming community interest surrounding the event,” said Jonathan Mason, MCAS Cherry Point Air Show director.

The successful execution of the event required months of planning and coordination between MCAS Cherry Point, the 2nd MAW, local leaders, emergency services, law enforcement agencies, volunteers, and community partners across the region.

“The response from our community has been tremendous,” said Col. Timothy R. Drieslein, commanding officer of MCAS Cherry Point. “This air show was a celebration of our nation, our aviation heritage, and the enduring relationship between this installation and the people of Eastern North Carolina. We are incredibly proud of our team—of Marines, sailors, federal service civilians, volunteers, and community partners—whose professionalism and teamwork delivered an unforgettable experience for our guests.”

Also, guests seeking to recover property that may have been lost during the air show should contact the installation Provost Marshal’s Office, the Lost and Found custodian, at 252-466-7014.