The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Thunderbirds, and a first-time F-35A Lightening II “full demo,” along with many other performers, are coming to Ellington Airport (EFD) for the 35th Annual Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Wings Over Houston Airshow on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19-20.

The elite Thunderbirds team returns to Houston for the first time since 2017, now under the command of Lt. Col. John Caldwell. For the first time in Houston, the newly formed F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team will present a full solo demonstration of the fifth-generation multirole combat fighter jet. Also headlining the show is the Canadian Forces Snowbirds demonstration team, returning to the show for the first time since 2011.

World famous aerobatic pilot Sean Tucker and Team Oracle return to Houston to fly a new “duet” performance with pilot Jessy Panzer, which will be the last chance to see Tucker fly the famous Oracle Challenger III biplane before it is retired to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

“We are incredibly excited to bring our fans three stunning demonstration performances this year with the Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, and the F-35A Lightening II full solo demo that is only performing in 19 shows this season,” said Airshow Director Bill Roach. Roach said the very well-rounded lineup will include Air Force Heritage and Navy Legacy flights, the legendary Tora! Tora! Tora! Show, and performances by several outstanding aerobatic pilots.

The airshow will also feature one of the largest assemblies of flying and static displays of vintage aircraft in the world. Now in its 35th year, the Wings Over Houston Airshow has had an association with EFD since its inception in 1984. Arturo Machuca, General Manager at EFD and the Houston Spaceport, said EFD was thrilled to again host the airshow.  “Wings Over Houston is so important to our community and region,” Machuca said. “Wings Over Houston provides an airshow that is absolutely thrilling to watch. But behind the scenes, Wings Over Houston honors our military veterans and serve the national and local communities through fundraising, scholarships, and so much more.”

“We are truly proud to be associated with them.”

To purchase tickets for the 2019 CAF Wings Over Houston Airshow, please visit the airshow’s website, www.wingsoverhouston.com, or call 888-4-FLYSHOW. On airshow performance days, general admission tickets will be sold at the gate. Once inside the gates, fans are welcome to visit reserved areas and purchase upgraded seating, if any are available.