URGENT UPDATE: Two pilots from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels are landing in Cleveland today, offering residents an exciting preview of the elite flight team that will headline the 2026 Cleveland National Air Show this upcoming Labor Day weekend. Ronny Hafeza from Redondo Beach, California, and Lilly Montana from Vienna, Virginia, are scheduled for a spectacular flyover in their F/A-18 Super Hornets before touching down at Burke Lakefront Airport at approximately 3:25 p.m.
As part of a routine pre-season visit, the pilots will meet with air show organizers and supporting agencies, setting the stage for the thrilling performances to come. “We are thrilled to host the U.S. Navy Blue Angels for their pre-season visit,” said Kim Dell, Executive Director of the Air Show. “And we are proud to be a Salute Across America 250 signature event.”
Cleveland is one of just 32 U.S. cities selected to host the Blue Angels in 2026. The full six-pilot squadron will perform a captivating one-hour, choreographed aerial demonstration during the show, slated for September 5 to 7. Fans can expect to see the iconic Diamond Formation, celebrated for its precision and grace, along with high-energy solo maneuvers that highlight the F/A-18’s impressive speed and agility.
The Blue Angels last graced the skies over Cleveland during the 2024 Cleveland National Air Show, and the F/A-18s make appearances every other year, making this visit a highly anticipated event for aviation enthusiasts.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the skies this afternoon as the Blue Angels prepare for an unforgettable show in 2026, a moment that promises to inspire and excite audiences of all ages.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Cleveland National Air Show and the Blue Angels’ upcoming performances!
