Owais Crawford
The Reno Air Races, organised by World War II veteran Bill Stead, have been held annually since 1964, with the exception of 2001, 2020, and 2024. The races have been described as a must-see and the best thing to do in Reno, with attendees praising the excitement of the races and the talent of the pilots and air show performers. The event also features civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, vendor areas, and a large static aircraft display. While it is possible to see the Reno Air Races from outside the airport, some spectators have noted that a good view of the action requires clear weather and a well-chosen vantage point.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Stead Air Force Base, Reno, Nevada |
| Year | 2025 |
| History | First held in 1964-65 at Sky Ranch airfield, Spanish Springs |
| Schedule | Two and a half days of qualifying, followed by four and a half days of multi-aircraft heat racing |
| Attendance | Saturday is the most highly-attended day, with Sunday being the last day of races |
| Tickets | Available for purchase online |
| Accommodation | Hotels near Reno-Tahoe Intl Airport, RV lots outside the airfield |
| Transportation | Shuttles from downtown Reno and casinos |
| Weather | Variable, but typically clear skies and warm days |
| Attractions | Civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, vendor areas, static aircraft displays, drone zone, flight simulators, air show performers |
| Accessibility | ADA-compliant, with wheelchair-accessible seating, handicap parking, and a handicap shuttle |
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What You'll Learn
The Reno Air Races have moved to Roswell, New Mexico
The Reno Air Races, officially known as the National Championship Air Races, are relocating to Roswell, New Mexico, in 2025. The races, billed as "the world's fastest motor sport", have been held at the Reno-Stead Airport, a few miles north of Reno, Nevada, since 1964. However, the 2023 race was marred by a tragic mid-air collision that resulted in the deaths of both pilots, Nick Macy and Chris Rushing, and safety concerns due to residential development around the airport have prompted the move.
The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) selected Roswell after a competitive bidding process involving 38 initial inquiries and six finalists. Roswell Air Center, which covers approximately 5,029 acres, offers a new racecourse layout and ample space for expansion. The Roswell location promises to present fresh challenges for racers and provide opportunities for new experiences, such as accommodating fly-in traffic and offering more RV parking, display areas, and ramp space.
The National Championship Air Races in Roswell will continue to feature seven classes of racing, static displays, and military demonstrations. The move ensures the tradition of high-speed air racing will continue, and Roswell is expected to be a permanent home for the races, with the community's support and ample space to accommodate the growing event.
While the Reno Air Races are moving to Roswell, Reno will continue to host aviation events. Preparations are underway for the 2024 Reno Air Show, marking the 60th anniversary of aviation events in the city. The Reno Air Races' relocation to Roswell, New Mexico, marks a new chapter in the history of this exciting and dangerous motorsport, offering a fresh venue and experiences for participants and spectators alike.
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The races include qualifying and multi-aircraft heat racing
The Reno Air Races have been a significant attraction since 1964, when World War II veteran Bill Stead first organised them. The races have been held at Stead Air Force Base, named after Bill Stead's brother, Croston Stead, since 1966. The event has a rich history, with aircraft in the Unlimited class, consisting of modified and stock World War II fighters, reaching speeds above 400 miles per hour.
The races themselves are structured with two and a half days of qualifying rounds. This is followed by four and a half days of multi-aircraft heat racing, leading up to the grand finale: the Unlimited Class Gold Race on Sunday afternoon. The multi-aircraft races feature high-performance aircraft racing on closed ovoid courses, with lap distances varying from 3 miles for Biplanes and Formula One classes to about 8 miles for Jet and Unlimited classes.
The Reno Air Races are not just about speed and agility; they also showcase the heritage and history of aviation. The event features civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, vendor areas, and static aircraft displays. The Heritage Flight Program, for example, pairs current Air Force fighters with planes from the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam eras, offering a dynamic display of airpower history.
Safety has been a concern at the Reno Air Races, with several incidents and collisions resulting in fatalities over the years. Despite these tragedies, the races remain a popular attraction, drawing large crowds to witness the thrilling competition and admire the aircraft on display.
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There are vendor areas, airshow acts, and flight demonstrations
The Reno Air Races, officially known as the National Championship Air Races, is a multi-day event tailored to the aviation community. It is held each September at the Reno Stead Airport, a few miles north of Reno, Nevada.
The Reno Air Races include two and a half days of qualifying, followed by four and a half days of multi-aircraft heat racing. The event features civil airshow acts and military flight demonstrations between races, plus vendor areas and a large civil and military static aircraft display.
The airshow acts include the Patriots Jet Team, The Heritage Flight Program, and the Air Combat Viper Team. The Heritage Flight Program, of which the F-35 is a part, teams up with current Air Force fighters and planes from the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam eras. The F-35 is the U.S. Air Force’s latest fifth-generation fighter. The vendor areas offer a range of food, merchandise, and other exhibits.
The Reno Air Races feature multi-lap, multi-aircraft races among extremely high-performance aircraft on closed ovoid courses. The races take place on courses that range between about 3 miles (Biplanes and Formula One) and about 8 miles (Jet, Unlimited) in length per lap. Aircraft in the Unlimited class, which consists almost entirely of modified and stock World War II fighters, routinely reach speeds in excess of 400 miles per hour.
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The races are staffed by volunteers
The Reno Air Races are a significant event in the city's calendar, attracting many visitors and aviation enthusiasts. The races have a long history, dating back to 1964 and 1965, when they were first organised by World War II veteran Bill Stead. The event has grown in popularity over the years, featuring multi-aircraft heat racing, civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, vendor areas, and static aircraft displays.
The Reno Air Races are now held at the Stead Air Force Base, named after Bill Stead's brother, Croston Stead. The event spans almost a week, with two and a half days of qualifying sessions followed by four and a half days of intense air racing. The races culminate with the highly anticipated Unlimited Class Gold Race on Sunday afternoon, featuring aircraft reaching incredible speeds.
The Reno Air Races rely on a dedicated team of volunteers who are passionate about aviation and ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Volunteers play various essential roles, from assisting with registration and greeting racers and spectators to guiding and motivating racers, ensuring they meet standards, and judging performances. The volunteer groups can come from diverse backgrounds, including youth groups, schools, athletic teams, and companies, all united by their enthusiasm for aviation and community connection.
Volunteering offers a unique opportunity for individuals and groups to contribute to the success of the event and foster the spirit of aviation. It allows them to connect with like-minded people, give back to the community, and gain a sense of fulfillment from helping others achieve their goals. The Reno Air Races provide perks for volunteers, such as free race entries, merchandise, or meals as a token of appreciation for their invaluable contributions.
While the races are primarily staffed by volunteers, there are also event staff members who work together with the volunteers to manage the event. Together, they ensure that the Reno Air Races run smoothly and safely, creating an enjoyable and memorable experience for all participants and spectators.
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The first Reno Air Races took place in 1964 and 1965
The Reno Air Races, officially known as the National Championship Air Races, are a multi-day event tailored to the aviation community. The first Reno Air Races took place in 1964 and 1965 and were organised by World War II veteran Bill Stead, a Nevada rancher, pilot, and unlimited hydroplane racing champion. The races took place at Sky Ranch airfield, a dirt strip barely 2,000 feet (610 m) long, located in present-day Spanish Springs.
The Reno Air Races feature multi-lap, multi-aircraft races among extremely high-performance aircraft on closed ovoid courses. The event includes races in six classes and demonstrations by airshow pilots. The six classes are: Unlimited, Formula One, Sport Biplane, AT-6, Sport, and Jet. The Unlimited class consists almost entirely of modified and stock World War II fighters, which routinely reach speeds in excess of 400 miles per hour. The Sport Class racers, mostly home-built aircraft, are also reaching speeds in excess of 400 mph.
The Reno Air Races are held each September at the Reno Stead Airport, a few miles north of Reno, Nevada. The races have been held at Stead Airport since 1966, after Stead Air Force Base was closed and turned over for public use. The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) is the chief organiser of the event.
The Reno Air Races are an important part of the calendar in the Reno area, attracting around 200,000 people. The event includes civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, and a large static aircraft display. The races are one of three money-making weekends for Reno, bringing a lot of people to the town. Spectators can expect hotel rates to be 3 to 4 times higher than the standard rate, and there is a dedicated lot for RVs outside the airfield, although you cannot see the races from there.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can watch the races from outside the airport, but you will still need to purchase a ticket. The races can be viewed from various locations, including RV lots, hotels, and residential areas.
Ticket options typically include General Admission and VIP experiences, such as the Checkered Flag Club and Chairman's Hospitality Tent. Tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a bundle with hotel accommodations.
The Reno Air Races are a thrilling event, featuring high-speed, low-altitude flights and competitive racing. The event also includes civil airshow acts, military flight demonstrations, vendor areas, and static aircraft displays.
The races take place over several days, with the most highly-attended day being Saturday. Sunday is the final day of the races, featuring the Gold races, including the Unlimited Gold Race. For a less congested experience, consider attending early in the week.
