The Arctic Lightning Airshow is a free aviation event held at Eielson Air Force Base, 26 miles (42 km) southeast of Fairbanks. The popular air show features aerial performers, static displays, and fun, family-friendly activities. The show is an important Fairbanks community annual event, promoting the US armed forces and letting the public learn about their line of duty.
Past performers of The Arctic Lightning Airshow included the U.S. Navy Air Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, the U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, the PACAF F-16 Demonstration Team, F-22 Capabilities Demo, Wings of Blue Skydiving Team, and many more. Visitors can also explore a variety of static displays, which include historic and modern aircraft, such as F-16 Viper, F-22 Raptor, B-52, KC-135 Stratotanker, MC-130 Combat Talon, CF-18, UH-72, AH-64, UH-60, Grey Eagle, C-46, and much more.
Ground entertainment includes live music, drag races, food vendors, and beer trailers. Kids' activities include a magician, face painting, balloon animals, bounce houses, and STEM. The gates to Eielson Air Force Base open at 8 am on both days, while the aerial acts will start around 12 pm.
