‘We’re still having a great show’: Wings Over Houston Airshow to go on despite government shutdown
Despite the federal government shutdown, the Wings Over Houston Airshow will go on at Ellington Airport Oct. 18–19, featuring aerial performances, vintage aircraft, and family-friendly exhibits.
Although the federal government is shut down, organizers of the Wings Over Houston Airshow (WOHA) say the show will still go on at Ellington Airport next weekend, October 18–19.
The shutdown is expected to affect military participation, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who are unable to perform or appear as long as the shutdown continues.
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“That does mean our military men and women who were supposed to come and fly or be on display are not allowed,” said Natasha Avey, Operations Manager for WOHA. “We’re still having a great show. We’re able to do that with our civilian aerobatic pilots.”
To ease any disappointment, WOHA is offering its Jet Team Guarantee. Anyone who buys a ticket this year will receive a free general admission ticket to the 2026 airshow if the Thunderbirds cannot perform.
Despite the changes, organizers say the 41st annual event will deliver plenty of excitement with aerial performances, vintage aviation displays, and modern aircraft filling the skies over Ellington.
“We work year-round to make this happen,” Avey said. “We try to show as much of aviation as we can on all sides of the spectrum.”
Visitors can also explore static aircraft displays, kid zones, STEM exhibits, and other hands-on activities on the ground.
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Event details:
- Dates: Oct. 18–19, 2025
- Time: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Location: Ellington Airport, Houston
Other highlights:
- Legends & Heroes Tent: Meet decorated veterans and aviation legends
- Veterans Business Marketplace: Support local veteran entrepreneurs
- Performers include: TORA! TORA! TORA!, RE/MAX Skydive Team, Commemorative Air Force, United Airlines 737, Messerschmitt Me 262 “Swallow,” Douglas A-4 Skyhawk, and the B-25 Mitchell “Doolittle Raiders” edition
Tickets and more information are available at wingsoverhouston.com.
