The skies over Roswell, New Mexico, are set to come alive with the thrill of air racing as the National Championship Air Races prepares for an exciting new season. In a pivotal gathering on January 14th, Class Presidents, FAA partners, and leaders of the Roswell community convened to map out the future of this beloved event.
A Visionary Venue: Roswell Air Center
The expansive 82-acre event layout at Roswell Air Center promises a world-class experience. Highlights include:
- Enhanced parking facilities will accommodate over 400 transient aircraft.
- Up to 500 RV dry camping spots for fans and teams.
- Dedicated emergency access routes and operational zones prioritizing safety and convenience.
Showcasing Roswell’s Unique Charm
Dynamic marketing campaigns are in the works to highlight not just the adrenaline-pumping races, but also the vibrant culture of Roswell and southeastern New Mexico. This event is shaping up to be more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, speed, and skill.
Rental Car Providers Gear Up for Event Demand
Event attendees flying into Roswell can look forward to ample transportation options as two of the airport’s main rental car providers, Enterprise/National and Avis/Budget, have pledged their support. Both companies are committed to ensuring sufficient rental cars are available to accommodate the influx of visitors for the National Championship Air Races. While final details are still being ironed out, early indications suggest a positive outlook, with these major providers actively working to meet the increased demand.
Ticket Availability
There are a few key issues with the grandstands that are impacting the ticketing process. Due to changes in ADA compliance codes, the grandstand can no longer be built with 32 seats across each row. The new limit is 17 seats per row, which will impact the seat numbering and placement vs. the previous facility. Our team is working to create a new seat map that accounts for these changes; it is a time-consuming and tricky process to get right, and once we have the new map worked out we will begin getting our tickets online for purchase.
Building a Strong Foundation with Community andFAA Support
The City of Roswell, led by Mayor Tim Jennings, has extended an enthusiastic welcome to the air racing community, as have county and state officials. Collaborative efforts between all levels New Mexico governement and FAA representatives aim to ensure safety, efficiency, and the unforgettable excitement fans have come to expect.
Innovative Planning for Seamless Experiences
Director Bobbi Thompson unveiled a carefully designed site plan that emphasizes functionality and excitement. Features include upgraded facilities for pilot registration, media operations, and streamlined transportation solutions, ensuring every aspect of the event runs smoothly.
Early Flights Ignite Enthusiasm
The excitement reached new heights as the first pilots took to the skies over the newly designed racecourse, offering a glimpse of the action to come. These early flights underscore the potential for a groundbreaking season ahead.
