FAQs

General Information

How do I get Press/Media Credentials?

Media credentials will only be extended to media on assignment. Media Credentials requests must be submitted in advance of air show dates on station / publication letterhead. These requests should be directed to the Public Affairs Office at 305-293-2027.

I’m a pilot and own a small plane. Can I fly-in to the show?

You cannot fly into the base, however, small air planes can make arrangements to land at the Key West International Airport at their own personal expense.

Is it a different show each day?

The air show schedule is the same each day. The gates open at 9 a.m. and the show begins at 11 a.m. with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flying at 3 p.m. Low clouds or high winds can affect the performer’s acts.

Is there shade?

General admission patrons will be under an open sky. The Box seating area does not provide shade either. The Flightline Club provides a small area of shade in the back of the seating area. Patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly and bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. We do not encourage umbrellas if you plan on watching the air show within close proximity of people as they block the view of other patrons.

Other than the air show, what other attractions will be at the show?

In addition to the air show, spectators can enjoy a collection of aircrafts on display, virtual games and other attractions & displays at vendor booths, food booths, souvenir booths, a car show, a boat show, and a kid’s zone with rides, inflatables and more.

What are chalets?

The MWR Chalet is an exclusive viewing area on the flight line that includes seating, tents, tables, free catered food and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, access to a full-service bar, and a designated restroom area. Learn how your business or group can become a sponsor today by clicking HERE. Alternatively, you can purchase individual tickets to the preferred seating Flightline Club which also provides seating and shade as well as food and beverages for an extra special experience at the air show. Click HERE for more information.

What happens if it rains?

We contend “It NEVER rains on our parade!” Some years the weather channel has reported thunder storms during our show, while we were enjoying rain-free weather as the storms passed north of the Naval Air Station. There are no refunds and no rain dates for the event. Check our social media platforms for inclement weather announcements.

What is the temperature at the show?

During the month of March, the average high in Key West is 80 degrees and the average low is 70 degree. We suggest wearing a hat instead of an umbrella because it tends to obscure the view of people behind you. Also, be prepared and bring sunscreen with you – the sun is hotter than you think. The average rain fall for the month of March is 1.8 inches.

Permitted

Are cameras allowed?

Yes. We want you to capture and share your air show memories. Your camera bags are subject to search. Please be considerate of those trying to view the show and do not block their view by setting up tripods in front of their seats.

Can I bring a wagon to pull my kids in?

Yes, the flight line is a large area and is a great option for children that may need a break from walking. Be mindful that strollers, carriages and wagons cannot take up aisle space in the seating areas and have to be stowed outside the seating area. All personal belongings are subject to search.

May I bring a camera bag or diaper bag?

Camera bags and diaper bags are allowed but all personal items are subject to search.

May I bring lawn chairs and blankets?

Chairs and blankets are permitted and recommended for general spectator seating. If you have purchased preferred seating or have a Sponsor wristband, seating will be provided in these areas and you will not need to bring your chairs.

May I drive my motorcycle to the Air Show?

Yes. If you plan on riding a motorcycle, you will be required to wear a DOT approved helmet. Motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear long sleeve shirts/jackets, trousers and full fingered gloves, as well as over the ankle sturdy footwear.

May I ride my bicycle to the Air Show?

Yes. If you plan on riding a bicycle you are required to wear a bicycle helmet.

Prohibited

Are drones allowed?

Naval Air Station Key West is a No Drone Zone. Flying your personal drones in or near the air show display area is strictly prohibited. You could face significant penalties, criminal prosecution or both. Operating your drone in the air show environment is a serious safety hazard. So, sit back, leave your drone at home and enjoy the show.

Are pets allowed on the show grounds?

No, pets are NOT allowed other than service animals. The crowds and noise are not suitable for pets.

Are roller skates, skateboards, bikes, or personal golf carts permitted on the show grounds?

No, none of these items are permitted due to security and safety restrictions. Handicap scooters and electric wheelchairs are allowed.

Can we bring a pop-up tent?

No, due to safety concerns, pop up tents are not permitted. Umbrellas are allowed, but please be courteous to those around you at all times.

If I have a concealed weapon license, can I bring my gun?

All weapons (regardless of permit) are prohibited, including: firearms, knives (including pocket knives and multi-purpose tools), replica or toy weapons, pepper spray, stun guns and all other items that the security force deems dangerous. All patrons and personal belongings are subject to search. Any confiscated items will not be returned. We ask for your cooperation in keeping potentially dangerous items safely off Navy property. At the entry points to the air show all bags will be inspected and subject to refusal by Security. It is recommended that guest minimize the number and size of permitted items to reduce the inspection time prior to access into the air show area. Please note that all vehicles are subject to search prior to entering the base.

Is outside food or beverages permitted?

No outside food or beverage is allowed into the air show, other than baby bottles (non-glass) and small snack items for infant children. We have a variety of food and beverage vendors who offer a full assortment of foods and drinks. Beer, wine and seltzers are available for purchase for those 21 and over.

Is smoking permitted?

Smoking cigarettes or e-cigarettes is not permitted anywhere on the flight line in the vicinity of aircraft, vendor tents or chalets. Jet fuel is very flammable and as planes are on the tarmac during regular hours and brought in for the show, there is often fuel soaked into the cement. Smoking is permitted ONLY in the designated smoking areas - see Air Show Map for specific locations.

May I bring a cooler?

Outside food and/or beverages are not allowed and coolers are not permitted.

May I drive my RV to the Air Show?

All RV’s and Campers will not be allowed on NAS Key West during the air show on Saturday and Sunday.

Transportation

I’m a pilot and own a small plane. Can I fly-in to the show?

You cannot fly into the base, however, small air planes can make arrangements to land at the Key West International Airport at their own personal expense.

Is there a shuttle from Key West?

There are no dedicated shuttles from Key West. Guests are encouraged to carpool or use a taxi or ride share service. Please note that all ride share services must use gate at MM 8.

May I drive my motorcycle to the Air Show?

Yes. If you plan on riding a motorcycle, you will be required to wear a DOT approved helmet. Motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear long sleeve shirts/jackets, trousers and full fingered gloves, as well as over the ankle sturdy footwear.

May I drive my RV to the Air Show?

All RV’s and Campers will not be allowed on NAS Key West during the air show on Saturday and Sunday.

May I ride my bicycle to the Air Show?

Yes. If you plan on riding a bicycle you are required to wear a bicycle helmet.

Parking

Is there handicap parking available?

There is handicap parking located directly north of the tarmac. Security will direct those with handicap parking tags to the designated parking area. There is limited space and this parking area will fill up quickly. Plan ahead and arrive early to ensure a parking space. Once the handicap area is full, patrons will be redirected to the parking lot that provides a shuttle to and from the tarmac. View the official parking map HERE. 

Where do I park?

Once you enter the base you will be guided to the nearest available parking area. See the arrivals and departures map for directions on which gate to enter and the locations of the parking lots. View the official parking map HERE. 

Accessibility

Are roller skates, skateboards, bikes, or personal golf carts permitted on the show grounds?

No, none of these items are permitted due to security and safety restrictions. Handicap scooters and electric wheelchairs are allowed.

Is there handicap parking available?

There is handicap parking located directly north of the tarmac. Security will direct those with handicap parking tags to the designated parking area. There is limited space and this parking area will fill up quickly. Plan ahead and arrive early to ensure a parking space. Once the handicap area is full, patrons will be redirected to the parking lot that provides a shuttle to and from the tarmac. View the official parking map HERE. 

Tickets

Are seating reservations for the entire weekend or for just one day?

Each ticket is good for one day only. Extra reservations would be needed for any additional day(s) you wish to attend. To purchase reserved Box seating or Flightline Club seating click on the TICKETS tab on the home page.

Are there Military Discounts?

No. The show is free and reserved seating has a set price for all air show patrons.

May I purchase preferred seating to the air show?

Yes, preferred seating wristbands are available for reserved Box seating and the Flightline Club seating areas along the front line of the air show. The Flightline Club tickets include a meal and an additional tent for shade. Guests will have access to a full-service bar designated for those areas. Click here to view the location of the reserved seating area

May I upgrade my ticket the day of the event?

If seating is available in the Flightline Club and Box seating areas on the day of the event, you may purchase at the entry point of the reserved seating area. Seating areas have sold out in the past and we recommend pre-purchasing to ensure seats are available and your group can find seating together. Click here to view the location of the reserved seating area

What are chalets?

The MWR Chalet is an exclusive viewing area on the flight line that includes seating, tents, tables, free catered food and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, access to a full-service bar, and a designated restroom area. Learn how your business or group can become a sponsor today by clicking HERE. Alternatively, you can purchase individual tickets to the preferred seating Flightline Club which also provides seating and shade as well as food and beverages for an extra special experience at the air show. Click HERE for more information.

What is the admission fee?

There is no admission or parking fee. Patrons are welcome to bring their own chairs/blankets. The earlier one arrives, the better the set-up spots. There is a fee for preferred seating along the front line. Seats can be reserved in advance or purchased on the day of the show if available.

What time does the show start and end?

Gates open at 9 a.m. each day and the show is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are the last performers of each day and they go up around 3 p.m.

Key West Information

Are there other attractions to see in the Key West Area?

Here are a couple websites to research for things to do in Key West while you are here.

Is there a shuttle from Key West?

There are no dedicated shuttles from Key West. Guests are encouraged to carpool or use a taxi or ride share service. Please note that all ride share services must use gate at MM 8.

Vendors

Do the vendors take credit cards?

Some do and some don’t, however an ATM is available on the site. It is recommended you bring cash with you.