CAROLINA BEACH — The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will perform over the Carolina Beach shoreline in 2027, marking a rare stop for the elite aerial demonstration team.
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The squadron — known for precision formation flying and high-speed solo maneuvers — is scheduled to headline an air show on Sept. 11 and 12, 2027, according to ILM officials.
The announcement comes as the Wings Over Carolina Beach Air Show, previously planned for fall 2025, is rescheduled for April 24-26, 2026. ILM Airport Director Jeff Bourk said the spring 2026 event will help the region gear up for the Thunderbirds in 2027.
“This smaller scale air show will provide a great opportunity for our community to enjoy aerial performances and for area businesses to see the benefit and prepare for the larger air show the following year,” Bourk said.
More details on the 2027 event are expected in spring 2026. ILM will coordinate with the FAA, Coast Guard, New Hanover County, the Town of Carolina Beach, Wilmington Police Department, Pleasure Island Chamber of Commerce, and other local partners as planning moves forward.
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