Thursday, November 06, 2025

Federal shutdown grounds U.S. military planes ahead of Pacific Airshow

As a result of the federal government shutdown, the U.S. military will not be able to participate in the 2025 Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach this weekend.

Organizers announced the lineup change on Wednesday. “While this is certainly disappointing news,” read the team’s statement, “Fans can look forward to full days of thrilling performances, exciting activations, and the one-of-a-kind camaraderie and beach party atmosphere that Pacific Airshow is known for.”

Aircraft that will not be seen this year include a fan favorite: the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, as well as the F-35 Lightning II, F-22 Raptor and A-10 Thunderbolt, among others. The Blue Angels, often associated with California airshows, were never slated for the 2025 Huntington Beach show.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons at the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach. (Pacific Airshow)
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons at the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach. (Pacific Airshow)

Despite these changes, organizers promised fans that the show would still be “outstanding” with “world-class domestic and international performances.”

The show highlighted a few non-U.S. military aircraft that will still be featured, such as the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Royal Air Force Falcons (UK), Aaron Fitzgerald flying the Red Bull BO-105, the historic B-29 “Doc,” Emma McDonald (Australia), Luke Czepiela and more.

“We can’t wait to welcome you to the beach for another unforgettable weekend,” concluded the show’s announcement.

For more information and how to find tickets, click here.

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