Back again, the 20th Fighter Wing is scheduled to host the 2022 Shaw Air and Space Expo, "Thunder Over the Midlands", April 2-3, 2022. The main event will feature the U.S. Air Force's elite aerial demonstration team, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and our very own Viper Demo Team!

Celebrating the Air Force's upcoming 75th anniversary and Shaw Air Force Base's recent 80th anniversary, our event is dedicated to those who inspire us to serve. An exciting, family friendly, and FREE event, the Shaw Air and Space Expo will be centered on the heroes who remind us of why we signed up in the first place and those who continue to inspire us to overcome all odds in the pursuit of freedom.

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Are umbrellas allowed at the air expo?
Small rain umbrellas are fine to bring (the small ones that fit in a purse,) but large golf umbrellas or shade umbrellas are prohibited. 

What attire should I consider?
Dress for the elements. It is recommended to wear sunscreen and sunglasses, take a hat, and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. You may do a lot of walking. 

Can I bring lawn chairs?
Yes. Lawn chairs, camp chairs and blankets are allowed. Lounge chairs are not permitted. All items are subject to search. 

I have small children. Can I bring a stroller/diaper bag/change of clothes/etc.?
Yes. Strollers will be hand-searched at the security checkpoint. Please bring only necessary items in a small diaper bag, subject to hand-search at the security checkpoint. Large diaper bags are not permitted. You can return to your vehicle during the show to get extra clothes, restock diaper items, etc. 

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed, with the exception of properly identified service animals.

Can I bring my camera/video camera/cell phone?
Yes. There are no security restrictions on these items. However, large camera bags are not permitted. Bring only necessary camera equipment. A small fanny pack or vest is useful for carrying small lenses. Keep in mind that everything is subject to search. 

Can I bring food?
Yes, however we do not allow glass containers, ice chests or coolers (except small coolers for medical supplies or infant formula purposes,) bags larger than a small purse or fanny pack and Camelbaks. All items brought are subject to approval by gate security personnel and are hand-searched at security checkpoint. 

Can I bring in bottled water?
Yes. 

Will there be specific parking and seating for the handicapped?
Yes, there will be handicapped & Special Needs parking close to the Air Expo ramp; access to this area will be available only through the Main Gate. A handicapped seating area will be provided near the show line. Visitors requiring special needs parking please turn on your hazard lights and parking attendants will direct you to the correct location.

Can I bring my motorcycle?
Yes you can, you will follow the parking route for cars. Additionally, all South Carolina state laws apply while on base; helmets and other personal protective equipment are recommended. 

Will there be any food or souvenirs available?
Yes. There will be concessions at the air expo for food, drinks, and souvenirs. 

Can I leave and re-enter the air expo?
Yes. You may leave and re-enter as many times as needed. However, anyone re-entering will have to go through security checkpoints again. 

Is tailgating allowed?
No. 

Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is not allowed on the flightline. 

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
You can purchase them at the air expo, but you cannot transport them onto base. 

Do I need a military ID?
No. ID isn't required to gain access to the installation. If you are driving on base, the driver must have a valid driver's license. All South Carolina laws still apply. 

Will restroom facilities be easily accessible?
Yes. Portable restrooms will be located throughout the air expo grounds. An infant changing room is available in Hangar 1200.

Can I take pictures or get autographs?
Yes. Many of the performers make themselves available for autographs and pictures during the show. 

Will it be necessary to have hearing protection?
Due to the nature of the event, it is highly encouraged you bring hearing protection. There will be a number of aircraft taking off, landing, and performing, which will be extremely loud. 

Which day will the Thunderbirds be performing?
Both. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will perform their amazing demonstrations both days, weather permitting. 

Will there be shade?
There are limited areas of shade available throughout the flightline. You can take a walk through one of our hangars or larger static displays to get a break from the sun. 

What happens if it rains?
In the event of rain, some flying demonstrations may be delayed. However, unless the weather poses a serious threat to the safety of the visitors and participants, the show will proceed as scheduled with some modifications. 

What is a static display?
A static display is an aircraft that is on display inside the spectator area. It is usually not an aircraft that will perform in the show, but it will be available for viewing and photo opportunities. 

Can I fly my own plane into Shaw AFB?
No. Only pre-approved static display and performer aircraft are allowed to fly into the base prior to the air expo. 

Will there be a preview day before the air expo?
Friday will be a practice day, but it will only be open to DoD cardholders.

What type of medical services will be available?
First aid only will be provided such as oral hydration, treatment for minor cuts and bruises, and application of emergency medications (ex. Epi-pens). Medical personnel will stabilize and coordinate transportation to higher level of care for all other injuries or illnesses. 

Where can I purchase premium seating?
www.shawairexpo.com

Air Show Workers, Non-Air Show Traffic:

• Enter through 441 Gate
• Air Show Workers/Augmentees/Private Orgs: expect additional information on parking and show times closer to the show

• Commissary:
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday & Monday: Open
• BX:
  • Closed other than gas pumps
• Express:
  • Open 1000-1600; gas pumps closed
• FSS Facilities:
  • Open: Lodging, Flight Kitchen, DFAC
  • Closed: Both gyms to include 24/7 access, all other facilities (Bowling, Golf, etc)

• If you are a school or organization interested in the Shaw Air and Space STEM Expo scheduled for April 1, 2022, from approx. 1000-1430 please contact 20fwpublicaffairs@us.af.mil
• If you are a business and would like to bring a STEM display, please contact 20fwpublicaffairs@us.af.mil

• DoD Cardholders Only
• Turn toward the flightline at the Express/Shoppette. Tentatively scheduled for 1030-1700. 
• FSS concert to follow at 1800

Tag-A-Kid Program

All guests who would like to register their child for the Tag-A-Kid Program may do so at the Child Registration just inside the Search area on the apron. The child will receive a wristband with his/her name and parent contact information. If the child becomes lost, the wristband will give Air Show staff employees or police officers the necessary information to safely ensure the child gets back to their parents. If a parent is not in the immediate area, the child will be taken to a safe space location inside Hangar 1200 (The large hangar at show center) where they will have books/toys for their comfort and enjoyment.

In the event of an emergency during the air show, dial 911. 

Hometown Heroes

During the show, it is imperative that no drone activity occur with a 5-mile nautical mile radius of Shaw Air Force Base per FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR). Aircraft will be operating at a high rate of speed and impact with a drone could be catastrophic. This requirement will be strictly enforced by law enforcement and through the use of detection/counter-drone technology. Penalties for violating could include fines. Read more here.

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