Do's & Don'ts: Attending an Airshow

Airshows are fantastic family events, offering a full day of aviation, entertainment, displays, food, shopping and, of course, amazing aircraft. Whether you are attending your first airshow or are a regular on the airshow circuit, a little preparation can make your day much more enjoyable.

Please note: This is a general guide. Rules and arrangements may differ from one airshow to another, so always check the official information for the specific event you are attending.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Airshows Are for Everyone

Airshows are enjoyed by people of all ages. Many events also include entertainment, static aircraft displays, exhibitions, food vendors and activities for children.

Some airshows also host aviation career days, usually before the main show. These events can be an excellent opportunity for young people interested in aviation and may include aircraft practice and validation flights.

On the main show day, you can often find static aircraft displays, flight schools, aviation-related exhibitors, hobby shops and radio-controlled aircraft, flight simulators, motorsport displays, food and drink vendors, and sponsor and trade stands.

If you are interested in becoming a pilot, an airshow is also a great opportunity to speak directly to flight schools and aviation organisations.

👧 Keep an Eye on Children

Large airshows can attract thousands of visitors, and it is easy for children to become separated from their families.

Make sure your children know where to meet if they become separated from you. You can also write your phone number on your child's arm or use an identification band. It is also a good idea to take a recent photo of your child on your phone before entering the event.

⏰ Arrive Early

Airshow gates generally open between 06:00 and 08:00, depending on the event. The flying display usually starts between 09:00 and 10:00 and can continue until the afternoon or even sunset. Some shows may end with fireworks.

If you want a good position along the crowd line, arrive early. At the larger shows, some dedicated airshow fans arrive one or two hours before the gates open. Arriving early also helps you avoid traffic congestion, long queues, limited parking, and missing the first displays of the day.

🎟️ Buy Your Tickets in Advance

Most airshows sell tickets online before the event. We recommend buying your tickets in advance whenever possible. Pre-purchased tickets can help you get through the gates more quickly and avoid unnecessary queues. Ticket prices vary from show to show, so always check the official event information before attending.

🧊 Check the Rules About Cooler Boxes and Food

Some airshows allow visitors to bring cooler boxes and their own food, while others do not. Always check the rules before leaving home. Most airshows have food and drink vendors offering a variety of options. By supporting the vendors, you also help support the event and the businesses that contribute to making the airshow possible.

Alcohol is generally not allowed to be brought through the gates, although some events may have designated areas where alcohol is sold and consumed.

🗑️ Take Responsibility for Your Waste

Most airshows provide plenty of bins, but it can be convenient to carry a small bag for your own rubbish. Once the bag is full, please dispose of it properly. Leaving the airshow grounds clean helps organisers, volunteers and the environment.

🤝 Support the Sponsors

Airshows are expensive to organise, and sponsors play a vital role in making them possible. Take some time to visit the sponsor and exhibitor stands during the event. Supporting sponsors helps demonstrate that their investment in aviation and airshows is worthwhile. This can help organisers attract sponsorship for future events and potentially make future airshows even better.

"Without sponsors, NO air show in the world will be possible. Take note of the air show sponsors and visit their stands at the show."

✈️ Who Keeps the Airshow Safe?

A professional airshow involves a large team working behind the scenes. The flying display is normally managed by an Air Boss, while safety officials closely monitor the event. Air Traffic Control (ATC) plays a vital role in managing aircraft movements and monitoring the airspace around the display area. On the ground, the Ramp Master helps coordinate aircraft parking and movement. The next time you attend an airshow, remember that many people are working behind the scenes to ensure that you can enjoy the display safely.

📸 Bring Your Camera

Airshows offer incredible photographic opportunities. The action is not limited to aircraft flying overhead. Great photographs can also be found in static aircraft displays, exhibitor stands, sponsor displays, aircraft preparation areas, the crowd, and interesting moments throughout the day. Remember to bring extra batteries or a power bank, especially if you plan to use your phone or camera throughout the day.

☀️ Protect Yourself from the Sun

South African airshows can be hot and sunny, so come prepared. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and comfortable clothing. Stay hydrated throughout the day. Large beach umbrellas and gazebos are generally not recommended. They can obstruct the view of people behind you and create obstacles in crowded areas. Please be considerate of fellow airshow visitors.

🪑 Prepare for a Long Day

Airshows can last for most of the day, and there is often a lot of walking involved. Consider bringing a camping chair, a blanket, comfortable walking shoes, and clothing that can be worn in layers. Mornings can be cool, while afternoons can become hot. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust as the temperature changes. Pack light where possible — at larger events, the walk from the parking area to the crowd line can be surprisingly long. Some major events offer park-and-ride facilities, while certain Gauteng events may also provide public transport options.

🚫 What NOT to Bring to an Airshow

Rules differ between events, so always check the official event information before attending. The following items are generally prohibited:

• Firearms and weapons of any kind
• Fireworks
• Alcohol
• Braais or cooking equipment
• Drones
• Handheld laser pointers
• Two-way radios or equipment that could interfere with aircraft or ATC communications
• Bicycles, rollerblades, and skateboards
• Dogs and other animals
• Beach umbrellas and gazebos

Smoking may also be prohibited on the flight line and ramp areas. Some events may also prohibit cooler boxes, your own food and drinks, large umbrellas or gazebos. When in doubt, check with the specific airshow organiser before you leave home.

🎒 What to Pack for an Airshow

• Airshow tickets (if purchased in advance)
• Hat and sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Camping chair and/or blanket
• Camera
• Fully charged mobile phone
• Power bank
• Earplugs (especially for young children or people with sensitive hearing)
• Cash — many shows accept cards, but cash can still be useful

🚗 Leaving the Airshow

The end of the airshow can be just as busy as the beginning. There may be long walks back to the parking area, heavy traffic, and long queues leaving the venue. Be patient, follow the instructions of traffic officials and allow other vehicles to merge. It may also be a good idea to use the bathroom before starting the walk back to your car. A cold drink can also be very welcome while waiting in traffic!

📱 Share Your Airshow Experience

Did you attend an airshow? We would love to see your photos and hear about your experience. Share your photos, comments and ratings with the Aviation Central community and tell us what you thought of the show.

✈️ See you at the next airshow!

This is a general guide only. Rules, access arrangements and prohibited items may vary from one airshow to another. Always check the official information for the specific event before attending.