The Yellowstone International Airshow will return to Billings next weekend, bringing the U.S. Navy Blue Angels back to the sky above Billings-Logan International Airport after a three-year absence. The two-day event is scheduled for Aug. 22 and 23 and is presented by Tactacam.
What to expect at the show
Organizers say the airspace over Billings will be filled with military fighter jets and other aerial performers as the show honors the America 250 celebration. The lineup will include military vehicles and the America 250 Freedom Truck, and event planners promised some unexpected elements for attendees.
- Dates: Aug. 22-23
- Location: Billings-Logan International Airport
- Headliner: The Blue Angels (returning after three years)
- Sponsor: Tactacam
Jake Penwell, co-chair of the Yellowstone International Airshow, said his team worked to make this year’s presentation stand out and hinted at a bigger, more dramatic experience than past shows.
"The pyro that we did last time probably did way too much, and that's exactly what we wanted. And so, this time we doubled the budget. On the pyro, the performers are bigger and better. Blue Angels, it's a brand-new team and you know, they're just kicking it, kicking butt. We just want to make it bigger, louder and smellier than it was last time. There's nothing like jet fuel in the morning to make you feel a little fun," Penwell said.
Local impacts and context
Billings hosts one of Montana’s larger airshows, and this year’s return of a high-profile military demonstration team is likely to draw visitors from across the region. The event’s previous recognition — the Yellowstone International Airshow was nominated for Airshow of the Year in 2023 — underscores its profile among aviation events.
For Billings residents, the airshow presents both opportunity and logistical considerations. Local businesses, particularly those in hospitality, retail and food service, often see increased patronage during weekend events that attract out-of-town guests. At the same time, the concentration of activity at Billings-Logan International Airport means area drivers and residents should expect flightpaths, roadway congestion and parking demand to rise on show days.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event dates | Aug. 22–23 |
| Primary location | Billings-Logan International Airport |
| Main attraction | Blue Angels (returning after three years) |
Organizers are promoting an array of military hardware on the ground in addition to aerial demonstrations. The inclusion of the America 250 Freedom Truck and other military vehicles ties the event to national commemoration activities, while expanded pyrotechnics indicate a more theatrical presentation than recent years.
Planning and community considerations
Residents planning to attend should allow extra time for travel and parking near the airport on Aug. 22 and 23. Given the event’s emphasis on military demonstrations and pyrotechnics, families with small children or individuals sensitive to loud noises may wish to plan accordingly.
While organizers have promoted a larger show this year, specific operational details such as entry procedures, ticketing, spectator zones, FAA temporary flight restrictions and road closures were not provided in the organizers’ statement. Attendees should consult official airshow channels for up-to-date guidance on schedule, safety rules and spectator services.
The return of the Blue Angels adds national attention to Billings for the weekend and may provide a boost to local commerce as visitors arrive for the show. For many in the community, the spectacle of precision flying and the presence of high-performance military assets offers a rare opportunity to see such demonstrations up close, contributing to a weekend of aviation-focused community activity.
Further information about event logistics and any updates is expected from the Yellowstone International Airshow organizers as the dates approach.
