Navy
NAS Pensacola cancels annual Blue Angels air show because of government funding uncertainty
Stars and Stripes
November 3, 2025
Spectators watch the Blue Angels perform aerobatic maneuvers during an air show at Naval Air Station Pensacola in November 2023. (Garrett Dipuma/U.S. Navy)
Naval Air Station Pensacola canceled this year’s Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show due to uncertainty regarding government funding.
Officials said the ongoing government shutdown, limited funding and the time needed to arrange for performers and necessary support contracts are key reasons for canceling the annual two-day event, according to a Facebook post by NAS Pensacola.
The show was originally set for Nov. 14- 15 in Pensacola, Fla., and expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we recognize the impact it will have on the community,” said Capt. Chandra ‘Mamasan’ Newman, commanding officer of NAS Pensacola.
The air station’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department said individuals who bought preferred premium seating tickets will be automatically refunded within a week.
“The NAS Pensacola staff is devastated they’re unable to bring the community the air show they love,” Newman said. “The Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is a cherished tradition celebrating the military presence and relationship with the wonderful City of Pensacola, the Gulf Coast community and the aviation enthusiasts we look forward to hosting each year.”
The NAS Pensacola Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of northwest Florida’s largest events and features a lineup of aerobatic performers and the Blue Angels team which consists of 158 active-duty sailors and Marines, including pilots, air crew, maintainers and support personnel.