National Championship Air Races

security information

for your safety

The National Championship Air Races and Air Show attracts crowds exceeding two hundred thousand visitors each year, and the Reno Air Racing Association is committed to providing a safe environment in which to enjoy all aspects of the event.

Air Racing provides a unique opportunity for attendees to get close to airplanes, pilots, crews and performers. However, it presents many challenges to minimize risks to our fans and participants.

In the interest of the safety, the Reno Air Racing Association has established the following gate security policies and we ask for your cooperation in abiding by these rules.

gate check

No person without a valid ticket or proper credentials shall be permitted to enter Reno Stead Field during the National Championship Air Races and Air Show. All persons desiring to enter Reno Stead Field as permitted attendees at the National Championship Air Races and Air Show shall be subject to a credential and security inspection, including possible inspection of their persons, their clothing, and all items in their possession.

prohibited items

Persons in possession of any of the following prohibited items are not permitted on the event site, whether or not they have proper credentials or tickets for admission, unless specifically authorized by the Reno Air Racing Association, the Airport Authority of Washoe County, or a State/Local/Federal law enforcement or emergency services agency:

• Explosives, fireworks, incendiary devices, firearms, or other weapons or dangerous items. Unless you are a law enforcement officer, your CCW or Concealed Firearm Permit does not grant you the right to carry a firearm at the Reno National Championship Air Races.
• Any flammable or volatile substances.
• Glass or metal containers.
• Tools or implements of any kind.
• Food or beverages, with the following exceptions [all of which shall be subject to inspection]:
  • water in reasonable quantities in sealed, clear plastic bottles,
  • baby formula for families with infants or small children, or
  • medications prescribed by a physician.
• Wheeled vehicles, whether motorized or un-motorized, with the exception of wheelchairs or scooters for disabled persons. Usage of wheelchairs and scooters brought onto Reno Stead Field shall be restricted to the disabled person bringing them into the site. Bicycles, roller skates, roller blades or skateboards are not permitted.
• Noise-making devices such as bullhorns, voice amplifiers, or public address systems.
• Luggage or bags larger than an airline carry-on bag.
• Items of commerce, samples, items for sale or trade.
• Dogs or other animals, except service animals accompanying disabled persons or authorized security personnel.

other rules

Folding chairs are permitted only in the marked zone directly in front of the general-admission grandstands. Folding chairs or other personal support devices are not permitted elsewhere, including the pits.

Umbrellas may not be used in the grandstands, in front of the grandstands, or in the pits except during actual precipitation.

Cameras and lenses are permitted; however, photographic or video equipment may not be carried in bags that exceed the size of an airline carry-on. Tripods or monopods may be used only where they do not impede the flow of foot or vehicular traffic, or the view of others. Photographs or video recordings may not be used for any commercial purpose without the express written consent of the Reno Air Racing Association.

Unusually large headgear, signs, clothing or other items that block the view of others may not be used in the grandstands or anywhere along the flight line.

Smoking is not permitted in the pits. Smoking is only permitted in designated areas in the Chairman's Club, VIP tent, Checkered Flag Club, and other designated smoking areas.

The distribution of flyers, posters, announcements, or other printed materials, merchandise, novelties, or other items without prior written permission from the Reno Air Racing Association is prohibited.

Security/gate personnel may refuse admittance to anyone who appears intoxicated or who exhibits belligerent or aggressive behavior that may be construed to present a danger to the safety of persons or property.

Individuals who fail to comply with the above rules or with the directions of Air Race Staff may be denied admittance or removed from the Air Race event area. Denial, delay, or revocation of admittance, attendance, or participation does not qualify any person for any compensation whatsoever, including refund, reimbursement, or exchange of tickets or credentials.