31 March 2026
Organisers of the US National Championship Air Races have confirmed that the 2026 Roswell Air Races will feature a full return of all seven competitive classes, marking the first time since the event’s relocation that a complete race programme will take place.
The announcement follows the absence of both the Unlimited and Sport classes at the 2025 event. Their return is being positioned as a significant milestone for organisers and competitors alike, effectively restoring the event to its traditional “full field” format.
The 2026 races will be only the second year hosted in Roswell, but the first to include every class that historically defined the competition. According to organisers, extensive coordination between race officials and class leadership helped resolve logistical and operational requirements needed to bring the missing categories back.
The seven classes scheduled to compete are:
Event organisers say the return of the prestigious Unlimited class in particular signals renewed confidence in the Roswell venue.
Alongside the competitive programme, the 2026 event will also feature major air displays. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform across three days, adding a high-profile attraction beyond the racecourse itself.
Visitors will also have access to static aircraft displays and “Pit Pass” experiences, allowing close-up viewing of competing aircraft and interaction with teams.
Organisers have outlined a phased ticket release:
The event is expected to take place in September 2026, although specific race dates are typically confirmed closer to the time.
The relocation of the National Championship Air Races from Reno to Roswell marked one of the biggest changes in the event’s history. While the 2025 debut established the new venue, the 2026 edition is being framed as the first true test of its long-term viability.
