Save the date #WOW17

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is scheduled to open its gates to the public for the 2017 Wings Over Wayne Air Show, May 20-21, 2017.

The air show is an opportunity for SJAFB to thank local and regional communities for their continuous support, in addition to educating the public on our combat capabilities and the F-15E mission of “Dominant Strike Eagle Airpower…Anytime, Anywhere!” Visitors can observe aerobatic performances and ground demonstrations during the two-day event.

Admission is free to the public.  There will be food, drink, and souvenir concessions available for purchase.

The headline performance for Wings Over Wayne 2017 is the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.  We will also showcase the capabilities of the F-15E Strike Eagles, KC-135 Stratotankers, Tora, Tora, Tora WWII reenactment, the F-22 Demo Team, Jackie B Airshow, and much more. Displays and demonstrations are subject to change up to the event. More information will be released upon confirmation of new acts and performances, and the most up-to-date information is available on www.WingsOverWayne.com.

For more information, please refer to the following frequently-asked questions.

Q: Is it safe to come to the air show?

A: Safety is always a primary concern at air shows. SJAFB works very closely with local and federal authorities to ensure safety. The base follows and enforces all security rules and regulations required. Expect extra security at the air show, both military and civilian.

Q: What time do the gates open?

A: Gates open at 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, with the Opening Ceremonies (National Anthem, Flyover) at 10 a.m.

Q: Is there a fee for admission?

A: No. The air show is free to the public.  Thank you for supporting us.

Q: Do I need a military ID?

A: No. During the air show the base will be open to the public.

Q: Is parking free?

A: Yes.

Q: Will there be handicapped accessible parking and seating?

A: Yes, there will be handicapped accessible parking on the north side of the static ramp, very close to the air show ramp. Handicapped accessible and persons with disabilities seating will be located near show center. Follow the signs on the day of the show to find the parking and seating areas.

Q: What overnight accommodations are available?

A: Wayne County offers a variety of hotels and outdoor campsites.  Please contact Wayne County Travel and Tourism for more information.

Q: Is tailgating allowed?

A: No.

Q: When will the flying begin?

A: Aircraft will begin flying at 10 a.m.

Q: What are the changes to the air show security?

A: Be prepared for 100% security checks with metal detectors at all entrances. All hand-carried items will be searched. All confiscated items will not be returned. Containers such as backpacks and coolers will be prohibited on the airfield. Some exceptions may be made for items such as diaper bags, purses and folding lawn chairs. Visitors must submit these items to security personnel for an inspection prior to entry. Weapons are strictly prohibited. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, blades (including pocket knives), and blunt objects. Patrons with firearms will be asked to leave the installation or their weapon will be confiscated and will not be returned.

Q: Can people with small children bring a stroller, diaper bag, clothes and other essentials? 

A: Yes. Strollers will be hand-searched at the security checkpoint. Please bring only necessary items in a small diaper bag, subject to hand-search at the security checkpoint. Large diaper bags will not be permitted. You can return to your vehicle during the show to get extra clothes, restock diaper items, etc.

Q: Are purses/fanny packs allowed?

A: Small purses and fanny packs are permitted, subject to approval by gate security personnel and a hand-search at the security checkpoint.

Q: Are folding chairs allowed?

A: Yes. If the folding chair comes in a carrying case, please have it out for inspection.

Q: Are cameras, video cameras or cell phones allowed?

A: Yes. There are no security restrictions on these items. However, large camera bags are not permitted. Bring only necessary camera equipment, leaving extra attachments at home. A small fanny pack can be useful for carrying extra batteries and small lenses.

Q: Are pictures and autographs allowed?

A: Yes. Many of the performers make themselves available for autographs and pictures during the show.

Q: Are pets allowed?

A: No. However, service animals with proper documentation are allowed.

Q: Are drinks and food allowed?

A: Packaged snack items for children are permitted, however, large amounts of prepared food will not be allowed.  Baby milk, formula, and water in small child containers are permitted. Water bottles, soda bottles, beer, or any other drinks will not be allowed through the gate. All items brought are subject to approval by gate security personnel and a hand-search at security checkpoint. Empty water containers are permitted and you will be able to fill them up for free at one of several purified drinking water stations around the ramp.

Q: Will there be any food or souvenirs available?

A: Food, drinks, and souvenirs will be available for purchase.

Q: Are bikes or skateboards allowed?

A: No. Bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, roller blades and similar items are not allowed.

Q: If an item is not allowed can it be returned to a vehicle during the show?

A: Yes. Since the show has no admission fee, visitors may leave and re-enter as they desire. Anyone re-entering will have to go through security checkpoints again.

Q: Is smoking allowed?

A: Smoking on the flight line is NOT permitted.  Smoking in the designated areas (outside the ramp) is permitted.

Q: Will restroom facilities be easily accessible?

A: Yes. Portable restrooms will be located throughout the air show grounds. Several will be located near parking areas and along high-traffic routes.

Q: Will it be necessary to have hearing protection?

A: This event will have jets that take off, land and perform. Visitors to the air show are encouraged to bring some form of hearing protection with them as the performances are extremely loud.

Q: What should visitors bring?

A: The following items are recommended: EMPTY, clear containers to fill at our free purified water stations, small rain umbrella, folding chair (must come in a carrying case), small picnic blanket or seating pad, small fanny pack/purse/bag, stroller, small diaper bag, change of clothes, camera/video camera, cell phone, hearing protection, weather-ready gear, sunscreen and other health or medical devices. If you have a military ID, it is recommended to bring but is not required to gain access to the installation. All items are subject to approval by gate security and a hand search at security checkpoints. 

Q: What should guests leave at home?

A: Please leave the following items at home: firearms, knives (including pocket knives and all-purpose tools), blunt objects, large umbrellas, tents, large backpacks/large bags, coolers, scanners, pets, outside food or beverages including water, soda, and beer, glass containers, bikes, roller blades, skateboards, mopeds, scooters, beach balls, signs, balloons, flags/banners, horns, whistles, air horns, other noise making items, and items restricted by federal law or, in the judgment of air show officials, may create a safety risk or reduce the enjoyment of the event by other guests.