Canadian Forces Snowbirds to Take Flight at the 2026 Columbus Air Show
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COLUMBUS – Today, the Columbus Air Show Presented by ScottsMiracle-Gro announced that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Snowbirds will perform at the 2026 show June 19-21 at Rickenbacker International Airport to help celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The Snowbirds will be the first international jet demo team ever to perform at the Columbus Air Show, and it will be their first demonstration in Ohio since 2003.
The Snowbirds will join the United States Air Force Thunderbirds in Columbus, meaning the Columbus Air Show Presented by ScottsMiracle-Gro will feature two military jet demo teams – a rarity for any air show on the planet.
“Sharing the sky at Rickenbacker International Airport for the Columbus Air Show alongside our brothers and sisters of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and an outstanding group of performers is a privilege for our team,” said Major Maciej Hatta, Snowbird 1, Team Lead. “Events like this highlight not only aviation excellence, but also the enduring relationship between Canada and the United States, one shaped by decades of collaboration, trust, and friendship. Case in point: I even went to Test Pilot School with Thunderbird 6! Through partnerships such as NORAD, our two nations fly, train, and operate together, and we are proud to reflect that spirit of cooperation in front of the Columbus community.”
“Every year, air shows around the world compete for the Snowbirds to perform at their event, and we are delighted they have chosen Columbus to showcase their remarkable skills and precision,” said Herb Gillen, president of Herb Gillen Air Shows, producers of the event. “With the addition of the Snowbirds, the Columbus Air Show Presented by ScottsMiracle-Gro instantly becomes this year’s premier North American air show. What a rare and unrivaled treat we have in store for central Ohio crowds and devout air show enthusiasts.”
The Snowbirds are known across the world for their tight, precision flying in their nine CT-114 Tutor jets and are capable of flying in more than 50 demanding formations. Based at 15 Wing in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the Snowbirds are all members of the Canadian Armed Forces, including pilots, technicians (aviation, avionics, aircraft structure, supply), mobile support operators, and a public affairs officer. Learn more about the Canadian Forces Snowbirds here.
As an officially designated American 250-Ohio event, the theme for this year’s air show will be “Celebrate America,” with a heavy emphasis on the history of aviation, our nation’s military, and Ohio. The Friday and Saturday evening shows will feature a special “Celebrate America” finale uniting fireworks, pyro, music and flying. Additional 250-Ohio events are scheduled throughout the year across the state.
Tickets for the show are now available and can be purchased on the show’s website at www.ColumbusAirShow.com/tickets. Ticket packages range from general admission to reserved premium seating in luxury catered tents. Several seating areas are already nearly sold out. Corporate partnership opportunities are available for companies and organizations seeking upscale hospitality options, branding opportunities, and on-site exposure. Email info@ColumbusAirShow.com for additional information.
The initial listing of performers, including the Thunderbirds, the F-35A, the iconic F4-D Phantom, the U.S. Army Golden Knights and others is available on the show’s website, www.ColumbusAirShow.com. All show information, including lineup additions, is always available on the website and through the show’s social media channels. Gate opening times have changed for Friday and Saturday’s shows and will now open at 1:00 p.m. instead of 2 p.m. Sunday’s schedule remains unchanged.
