The wait is over and all the work we’ve done behind-the-scenes has been worth it. We’re beyond thrilled to announce that the Unlimited and Sport classes are officially returning to the National Championship Air Races this September!

For the first time since our historic move to Roswell, New Mexico, fans will witness the power and precision of all seven race classes competing for gold. Consider this a bonafide September Family reunion.

A Historic Debut in Roswell

Following an exciting inaugural event last year, September 2026 will be the first time the “full field” will take to the New Mexico skies. After missing them in 2025, leadership from the Sport and Unlimited classes have worked tirelessly with the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) to ensure both classes’ needs were met for their return this year.

Don’t take our word for it though. Hear directly from Dennis Sanders, Unlimited Class president, and Sean VanHatten, Sport Class president:

As RARA Chairman and CEO Fred Telling puts it:

“We pride ourselves on being the only event in the world where fans can see seven classes of air racing. We can’t wait to show first-time attendees what a full field of air racing looks like.”

The 2026 Lineup

Prepare for an adrenaline-filled experience as these incredible machines return to the course:

• Unlimited Class: The heavy metal icons of air racing.
• Sport Class: High-performance, kit-built speedsters making their Roswell debut.
• Jet Class: The fastest racing on the planet.
• T-6 Class: The “Pilot’s Class” featuring classic WWII trainers.
• Formula 1: Pure racing DNA in a compact package.
• Biplane: Stunning aerobatic prowess and vintage charm.
• STOL Drag: The ultimate test of low-altitude power and braking.

More Than Just Racing

The action isn’t limited to the racecourse. This September, the USAF Thunderbirds will headline the show with their breathtaking performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Between races, you can explore a massive display of static aircraft or grab a Pit Pass to get up close and personal with the race planes from all seven classes.

How to Get Your Tickets

Don’t miss out on this historic full house event. Mark your calendars for these key dates:

• Early April: Pre-sale event for Air Race Insiders and season ticket holders.
• Mid to late April: General ticket sales open to the public.

Among this good news, we’ve also been working diligently to make sure the Roswell racecourse and facilities are ready for an action-packed weekend in September.

See you in Roswell! Get your trip itinerary going by visiting our page here.

Keira Fong SOLOED.

Photo: KRTS. Runway 08. Aircraft N752DW.

You often hear people say they “don’t have time.” Keira Fong didn’t wait to find time – she made it.

Keira is a high school student and future U.S. Air Force pilot in the making. She serves as the youth lead for a 4-H Aviation group and is a Young Aviator Boot Camp alum. In her free time, she’s also part of FFA, Girl Scouts, plays sports, takes care of her pets and even gardens. With such a busy schedule, how was she able to take on securing her private pilot’s license?

We’re pleased to share that Keira was a 2025 Reno Air Race Scholarship participant and a true testament to our passion for supporting the next generation of pilots. Throughout her training, Keira has shown commitment, grit and an absolute refusal to quit ensuring her success in the skies.

In early February 2026, Keira took to the skies solo. She sent her CFI out of the plane, lined up on Runway 08 at Reno/Stead (KRTS) and flew.

No drama.
No rush.
Just calm hands, sharp judgment and solid flying.

Preparation plus persistence equals one impressive solo flight.

Congratulations to Keira on an unforgettable first solo, and a huge thank-you to her instructor, Andrew Spanier at Great Basin Aviation, for the guidance and mentorship that helped make this milestone possible.

And this is only the beginning. ✈️

For the National Championship Air Races, making the possibility of flight happen for the next generation of aviators is part of our core mission. As an organization, we are incredibly proud to support students in northern Nevada and Roswell, NM through our flight scholarship program. Are you interested in learning more about our flight scholarship training program?

Our 2026 dates are out and we can’t wait to reunite with our September family in Roswell from September 16 – 20! Though we’re a little late on the announcement, we’re also excited to share the news that the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are headlining our 2026 event.  

“We are thrilled to officially announce our 2026 dates and to be joined by the prestigious U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds in Roswell,” said Fred Telling, Chairman and CEO of RARA. “The enthusiasm and commitment we’ve seen from the racing community, the City of Roswell, and our partners across New Mexico gives us great confidence that 2026 will build on the tremendous success of our inaugural year here.”

This announcement is later than previous years for good reason, though, and we want to continue to be as transparent as possible with our dedicated fans. There were a combination of factors at play – namely responsible due diligence with respect to the federal government shutdown and using this past December’s International Council of Air Shows as an opportunity for RARA to meet with various organizations and event partners.

“Out of respect for the important role federal agencies play in aviation safety and event coordination, we felt it was prudent to take a measured approach before announcing,” added Telling. “At this time, we’re pleased to share that we are in discussions with all seven race classes for what is sure to be a wonderful event in Roswell next September.”

Those discussions are continuing throughout the next few weeks and we look forward to sharing updates as soon as possible. We’re continually thankful to our fans for their trust and support of our one-of-a-kind aviation experience. Where else in the world can you find the thrill of head-to-head air racing with high-speed demonstrations, military displays, and world-class aerobatic performances? Roswell, New Mexico from September 16 – 20, that’s where. We’ll see you there.