Amazing Northwest Illinois Airshow Event
Get ready to look up and hold your breath — the Northwest Illinois Airshow returns to Albertus Airport in Freeport, IL on September 19, 2026, bringing an incredible lineup of aerial performers and historic warbirds to the skies above northwest Illinois. Whether you’re a lifelong aviation fanatic or simply someone who loves breathtaking, high-octane action, this annual show delivers the kind of heart-pounding excitement that keeps fans coming back year after year. Gates swing open at 10:30am, giving you plenty of time to explore the grounds before the main show kicks off at 1:30pm.
The 2026 performer lineup is nothing short of spectacular. Aerobatic legends Skip Stewart and Erik Edgren will push their aircraft to the absolute limits of flight, while Galen Killam takes to the sky in his RV-8 and Michael Hoy showcases the jaw-dropping capabilities of his Monosport 360. Adding even more excitement, the BeechNutz Formation Team will demonstrate the precision and artistry of coordinated formation flying that leaves crowds absolutely stunned. Tying it all together is announcer Phil Dacy, whose expert commentary will keep you informed and entertained from start to finish.
History buffs and warbird enthusiasts are in for an especially memorable treat, as the show will feature flybys from three iconic military aircraft — the classic T6 trainer, the powerful TBM Avenger torpedo bomber, and the sleek T33 Shooting Star jet. Seeing these magnificent machines thunder overhead is a powerful reminder of aviation’s rich and storied past, and it’s an experience that simply can’t be replicated anywhere else. This combination of modern aerobatics and vintage military hardware makes the Northwest Illinois Airshow a truly unique event on the regional calendar.
Attending is easy and family-friendly — parking is available for just $5 per car, with entry via Lamm Road. Please note that drones are strictly prohibited within 5 miles of the airport, so leave yours at home and enjoy the real aerial action happening right above you. Don’t miss your chance to witness world-class pilots and historic aircraft all in one incredible afternoon in Freeport, IL. Mark your calendar for September 19, 2026, and come experience the thrill of flight for yourself.
Northwest Illinois Airshow
Albertus Airport 1255 E Airport Rd, Freeport, IL, 61032
