Update for 2012 - Plans are moving ahead for the 2012 Reno Air Races, currently scheduled for September 12-16, 2012. Safety procedures are being reviewed and changes may be forthcoming. The exact nature of the 2012 event is still to be determined, though organizers and fans have expressed a strong preference for continuing with the air races and air show as in the past. I will post more information as it becomes available.
Fatal crash at the Reno Air Races - The remaining two days of the 48th Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show have been canceled due to a tragic accidend on Friday afternoon. At about 4:20 p.m., the P-51 Mustang Galloping Ghost piloted by Jimmy Leeward crashed into the box seats area in front of the grandstands at Reno-Stead Field, killing Leeward. At least two spectators on the ground were later confirmed dead at a hospital in Reno. News reports from KTVN2 and the Reno Gazette-Journal indicated that over 50 people were injured and taken to hospitals in Reno and Sparks. Some are reported to be in critical condition. When more information becomes available, these numbers may change. Check with local news sources for additional details.
This is the worst accident in the 48 year history of the Reno Air Races and the first crash in which spectators have been injured and killed. Prior to today, 16 deaths have occured at the Air Races, including pilots and aerobatic performers.
About the Reno Air Races
The 48th Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show, a whole series of activities centered around the actual air racing, will be held from September 14 through 19, 2011. The first air races were in 1964, and except for being suspended on 9-11-2001, have been held every year since. The event has grown in scope and popularity, attracting thousands of people from out of the area to mingle with the thousands of locals who attend the air races. Chief organizer is the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA).
If you aren't a pilot or big airplane buff, learn about the classes of race aircraft and how the races are staged. It makes the whole thing more fun and interesting if you have some clue as to what's going on.
Aerobatic Performances at the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show
The air show consists of performances by multiple aeronautical aces. There is always a headliner, which in the past has included the US Navy Blue Angels, the USAF Thunderbirds, and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. In 2011, the USAF Thunderbirds will be here to wow the crowd with their amazing performance. There will be a practice show on Friday and full shows on Saturday and Sunday. Air show performances occur during times between races.
Tickets to the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show
There are numerous ways to buy Reno Air Races tickets and various ticket packages you can purchase. There will always be tickets and pit passes available at the gate, so there no problem gaining entry if you just show up. Note, however, that prices increase each day. The cheapest general admission tickets are $10 on Wednesday, September 14. By the time Sunday rolls around, they are $27 a pop. Starting April 4, 2011, tickets are available online. You must buy an extra pit pass to access the area where crews work on the racing airplanes.
The Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show is a no-pets event. Dogs (except service animals) will not be admitted. There are other safety and security rules you should review before heading out to the races and show.
Getting to and Parking at the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show
Stead Field Airport is about 8 miles north of downtown Reno on US 395. There are big signs directing motorists to exit at Stead Blvd. Turn right and follow signs to parking areas at the airport. Once at the site, there are numerous parking options available. Please don't park in the nearby neighborhoods.
If you are staying at a hotel in Reno or Sparks, there is a shuttle service available to take you to Stead Field Airport. When you see how congested the traffic can get, you'll be glad you chose to forego the parking hassle.
More About the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show
Despite the official schedule, weather and other unpredictable factors can affect when things actually happen. Air race officials suggest you do not plan your attendance around a specific race or show since it may not happen at the originally scheduled time.
Get the additional information you need to enjoy the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show at these links:
- Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show Schedule
- Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show Events Overview
- Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show Tickets
- Reserved RV Parking
Temporary Safety Closure of Public Lands for the Reno Air Races
Public lands around the Stead Airport will be closed to access during qualifying for the Reno Air Races in June and for a few days before, during, and after the event in September. The Washoe County Sheriff and Reno Police Department will patrol the area to enforce the closure. For more information, contact the BLM-Carson City District office at (775) 885-6000.
More Air Shows in the West
While the Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show is just about the best event of its type, there are other excellent air shows around the western United States. Check these out for more high flying excitement.
- Aviation Nation at Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas (November)
- San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show (October)
- California International Airshow (September)
- Redding Air Show (September)
- MCAS Miramar Air Show (September)
- Wings Over Houston Airshow (October)
Sources: Reno National Championship Air Races and Air Show website, Nevada BLM.
