The Wildwoods Airshow Partial Lineup Announced
The skies over the Wildwoods are set to roar this September as the highly anticipated ‘Thunder Over the Waves’ Airshow makes its grand debut!
Organized by the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) in partnership with David Schultz Airshows, this thrilling event will take place over two days, with a practice session on September 5 and the full show on September 6.
The Wildwoods Airshow Partial Lineup Announced
High-Flying Action Over the Wildwoods
The four-hour-long spectacle is expected to attract more than 400,000 spectators to the Wildwoods’ beaches, offering an action-packed lineup of aerial performances.
Some of the biggest highlights include military flyovers from the NJ Air National Guard, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and Dover Air Force Base.
Also taking to the skies will be the Fighter Jets Inc. MIG-17PF Jet Team, the ACEMAKER Solo Aerobatic Demo in the T-33 Shooting Star, and Jerry Conley piloting the DH-115 Vampire Jet.
Adding even more excitement to the mix, the US Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will demonstrate their high-altitude freefall skills, while the US Coast Guard is set to deliver a thrilling search-and-rescue demo.
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Prime Viewing & VIP Seating
The Wildwoods’ expansive beaches and infrastructure make it an ideal location for large-scale events. Much like the Barefoot Country Music Festival, the airshow will feature VIP spectator bleachers on the beach, offering prime viewing spots.
Exclusive VIP viewing areas will also be available at select hotels, piers, and businesses for an upgraded experience.
Airshow Schedule
The current schedule (subject to change) includes a packed lineup of performances, ensuring non-stop excitement from start to finish:
- 11:50 AM – Opening Ceremonies
- 12:00 PM – National Anthem with Army Golden Knights Flag Jump
- 12:06 PM – Army Golden Knights Mass Exit Show
- 12:14 PM – Military Flyovers Window
- 12:24 PM – Mark Meredith DHC-1 Chipmunk Aerobatics
- 12:34 PM – Scott Francis MXS Aerobatics
- 12:49 PM – Jerry Conley DH-115 Vampire Jet Aerobatics
- 1:04 PM – USCG MH-65E Search & Rescue Demo
- 1:14 PM – Jersey Jerks 4-ship SNJ Formation Demonstration
- 1:24 PM – Kevin Russo SNJ-6 Aerobatics
- 1:39 PM – Patrick McAlee Pitts Aerobatics
- 1:54 PM – Full Throttle Formation Team
- 2:10 PM – Army Golden Knights Mass Exit Show
- 2:30 PM – ACEMAKER T-33 Jet Aerobatics
- 2:45 PM – P-51D Mustang Demonstration
- 2:58 PM – Fighter Jets MiG-17 Jet Aerobatics
- 4:00 PM – Airshow Ends, Airspace Reopens
“Hosting the airshow in the Wildwoods continues a shore tradition that has captivated families with dazzling entertainment,” said David Schultz, President of David Schultz Airshows. “We are thrilled that the Wildwoods have selected us to put on a first-class airshow that will be both exciting and entertaining for families.”
Looking ahead, GWTIDA is already in discussions to make ‘Thunder Over the Waves’ an annual event, with potential airshows planned for 2026 and beyond. The event will be free for the public to attend, with funding coming from GWTIDA, SJTA, and corporate sponsorships.
A Boost for the Wildwoods’ Economy
GWTIDA officials see the airshow as not just an entertainment event, but also a major driver of tourism and economic growth.
Historically, airshows in South Jersey have drawn massive crowds and generated tens of millions of dollars in economic impact.
By hosting ‘Thunder Over the Waves,’ the Wildwoods aim to extend the summer season into September, benefitting local businesses and reinforcing the island’s reputation as a premier event destination.
“The Wildwoods are home to many family-friendly events year-round, and we’re proud to add a longtime South Jersey tradition to our calendar of events,” said GWTIDA Executive Director Louis M. Belasco.
For those interested in sponsorship opportunities, contact the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority at 609-846-2657 or via email at [email protected].
Get ready, Wildwoods! This September, all eyes will be on the skies!