The wait is officially over, race fans! We’ve released the official lineup of pilots and planes for the second annual National Championship Air Races (NCAR) at the Roswell Air Center (ROW). Buckle up for September 2026 because we’re about to make history. For the first time ever in Roswell, we are flying with a completely full house.
The September Family is Back Together
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back the Sport and Unlimited classes, bringing our field to a spectacular, wide-open roster of all seven race classes. As RARA CEO Fred Telling put it:
“We’re ecstatic to announce our September Family is whole once again at the National Championship Air Races. We’ve had many discussions with all classes so we would be able to achieve a full field this year and it’s come to fruition. Now, first-time attendees and longtime race fans will be able to witness the complete roster of classes race in Roswell.”
A Truly Global Grid
The star-studded 2026 lineup brings together an extraordinary field of aviation talent, including returning 2025 champions Josh Watson (Formula One), Tom Marden (Biplane), Chris LeFave (T-6), Bob McCormack (Jet) and Eddie Sanches (STOL – 2nd place). The return of the Unlimited and Sport classes adds additional excitement, with competitors Steven Hinton, Vicky Benzing, Brent Hisey, Dennis Sanders, Tom McNerney, Conrad Huffstutler and more joining the action. Nearly 90 elite pilots from across the United States and around the globe, from Australia and Switzerland to Wyoming and California, will converge in Roswell to compete in one of aviation’s most thrilling spectacles.
More Than Just Racing: An Unforgettable Weekend
While the racing is the main event, the excitement doesn’t stop at the grandstands. The 2026 event is packed with world-class entertainment and attractions for the whole family, including:
- Jaw-dropping, high-speed aerial choreography by the world-renowned USAF Thunderbirds.
- Fascinating civilian flight demonstrations.
- The STEM Education Discovery Zone, featuring interactive, hands-on displays for future aviators.
- An incredible lineup of static aircraft displays that let you get up close and personal with these incredible aviation machines.
Plan Your Ultimate Road Trip
Tickets are selling fast, but there is still time to secure your spot in the stands. Whether you want a single-day pass to catch the action, a weeklong pass to experience every heat, or a premium VIP package for the ultimate comfort, we have options to fit every fan and budget.
Pro-Tip on Lodging: Rooms right in Roswell are limited. However, hotel and short-term rental options are available in surrounding towns like Artesia, Ruidoso, Alamogordo, and Portales. If you want the ultimate, hassle-free race experience, we highly recommend checking out our expanded on-site RV camping. It’s the easiest way to stay right by the action at ROW while enjoying plenty of space and a great community of fellow fans.
Don’t miss out on the aviation event of the year. Head over to Meet the 2026 Racers to see the racer lineup as it drops and secure your tickets today! We’ll see you in Roswell!
