What is Gunfighter Skies?
The Gunfighter Skies 2026 Air Show is May 16-17. General admission and parking are free! No tickets are required! Ticketed VIP seating and parking are available for purchase. Mountain Home AFB will open its gates to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for guests to witness firsthand the pride and precision of the U.S. Air Force, including several spectacular military and civilian aerial performers and demonstrations, featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
Is there a schedule of events?
The show is identical on both Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17. A performer lineup is available online, but the schedule is subject to change. Visitors should expect non-stop performances, with the Thunderbirds performing as the final act each day.
When does the show begin?
The Opening Ceremony and flying begins at 11:00 a.m.
What type of identification will I need to get on base?
Guests 18 and older must present a REAL ID to enter the base. Foreign guests must present a current passport. Visitors 16 years and older are encouraged to carry a valid form of ID. Drivers must also have proper vehicle registration and insurance. Please note: all vehicles are subject to searches by Security Forces.
What can I expect at security checkpoints?
People, vehicles, and personal items are always subject to search while on the installation. Safety measures such as metal detectors and K-9 units will be in use. All items will be searched before entering the airshow spectator area. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding. Please see the list of prohibited and allowed items.
What is the parking situation?
Free parking is available to all event attendees with the option of purchasing VIP parking tickets if desired. General (free, no ticket required) parking is about 1 mile from the spectator area but is served by shuttle buses running continuously throughout the show. VIP parking is available for purchase and is less than ¼ mile from show center!
How do I gain base access?
Mountain Home AFB will open its three (3) gates to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Main Gate serves all parking lots (VIP, Sponsor, Handicap, Motorcycle/RV, and Free Parking). The State Highway-51 Gate (via Mint Farm Road) is the best and fastest route to Free Parking. Do not use the State Highway 51 Gate for Handicapped, Motorcycle/RV, Sponsor, or VIP parking The Grand View Gate serves only Handicapped, Sponsor, and VIP (paid) parking.
Can I bring food?
Small snacks are fine if they are not in glass containers. Small coolers for medical supplies or infant formula/milk are allowed. All items must be approved by security personnel and are hand-searched at security checkpoints.
In case of rain or other inclement weather, will the show go on?
Only in cases of severe weather would events be postponed or cancelled. Ground displays will remain available, barring unsafe conditions. Visitors are encouraged to check the weather forecast prior to arrival and prepare accordingly.
Will food, beverages, and souvenirs be sold at the event?
Yes, vendors will provide a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs for purchase. Free water stations will be located throughout the venue. Guests are encouraged to bring clear, refillable water bottles. Vendors accept cash, credit, and debit cards.
Are pets allowed at the event?
Pets are not allowed, except working dogs. Pets must not be left unattended in vehicles.
What if I am separated from my child?
Families and groups are encouraged to stay together and establish meeting points. A designated lost child area can be located on the event map next to the STEM Expo hangar. If a guest notices a child who has been separated from their family, we ask that they please contact an event staff member in military uniform or law enforcement member immediately.
Are there restrictions on what can be brought to the event?
Alcohol, non-prescription drugs, and weapons of any kind are prohibited. A full list of prohibited items is available on the Gunfighter Skies Air Show website.
Can I bring a stroller, diaper bag, or change of clothes?
Yes, stroller and diaper bags are allowed and will be hand-searched at the security checkpoint. Please consider bringing hearing protection for your children.
Can I bring lawn chairs or tents?
Only small, space-saving fold-up chairs are allowed. Large chairs, tents, and awnings are prohibited. Small personal umbrellas are allowed.
Are motorcycles and RVs allowed on base?
Yes. All motorcyclists must wear personal protective equipment, including a helmet. Motorcycles and RVs should enter via the Main Gate.
When do the shuttles start running?
Buses from free parking lots to the spectator area will run continuously throughout the day.
Will restroom facilities be easily accessible?
Yes. Portable restrooms will be located throughout the Air Show grounds.
Will it be necessary to have hearing protection?
Due to the nature of the event, it is highly encouraged you bring hearing protection – especially for children. There will be several aircraft taking off, landing, and performing, which will be extremely loud.
What type of medical services will be available?
Medical services will be limited to general first aid. On-site first responders will coordinate transportation to higher level care for all injuries/illnesses as determined by a medical professional.
Will handicap parking be available?
Limited Handicap Parking is available on base, and it first come, first serve. Vehicles must have handicap placards, should enter through the Grand View Gate, and follow directions from attendants and signs. Please do not use the State Highway-51 Gate (via Mint Farm Road for Handicapped Parking.
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