Arctic Thunder Open House Air Show 2024 in Anchorage, AK

As Alaskan temperatures rise up in July, so do the airplanes in preparation for the Arctic Thunder Open House, a biennial air show taking place in Anchorage. Held at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, the event is a draw both for aviation enthusiasts and the regular public due to spectacular flight demonstrations, leaving even the biggest skeptics in awe.

Air Show Program & Performers

The show opens with a collective performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner," the American national anthem, and is followed by a jaw-dropping parachute jump with flags. Skilled paratroopers jump out of the aircraft while waving the national flag and then unfold their parachutes. The show then continues with several flight demonstrations, performed by The Pacific Air Forces F-16 team, the Undaunted Airshows team, the USAF Air Combat Command F-22 demonstration team, and the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson members.

The Golden Knights parachute demonstration team will also showcase another parachuting display. Among the individual pilots, you'll have a chance to witness spectacular maneuvers performed by Melissa Dawn Burns and Tom Larkin. Closing out the show will be the beloved flight demonstration team, United States Air Force Thunderbirds.

Other Attractions

During the break between aerial events, consider exploring the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and its numerous static displays. Over 40 exhibits will be available at the venue, ranging from antique, vintage aircraft and fighter jets to one-of-a-kind land vehicles. Additionally, there's no shortage of vendors at the event, offering various food to snack while watching the air show. The options include pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, empanadas, corn on the cob, cheese curds and much more.

Admission & Tickets

Admission to the venue doesn't require any fees and is completely free. However, if you'd like to get the best view of the show, consider purchasing a Premium Seating ticket. There are two options: Spartan Club and Raptor Club. Spartan Club provides you with seats and access to private restrooms, while Raptor Club also gives you an option of breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tickets to Spartan Club cost $150, and Raptor Club tickets cost $200.

Schedule

The gates to the venue open at 9 am, but the opening ceremony and flight performances start at 11:55 am. The Thunderbirds demonstration is set to kick off at 3 pm, but the event ends at 5 pm. The schedule applies to both days of the air show.

Location

All the performances and activities take place at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located on the northeast of Anchorage. Apart from being situated in Anchorage, one of the most diverse Alaskan cities, the base is nestled in the gorgeous snowy mountainous landscape near the Hillberg Ski Area.

Transportation & Parking

Organizers recommend to refrain from traveling by car due to severely limited parking and heavy traffic. The available parking spots are free. The base has several gates you can enter, one facing Boniface Parkway and the other near D Street Exit. If you're traveling from the north of the venue, enter the D Street Exit gate. If from the south, it's best to enter through Boniface Parkway.