UBU BRANDS • October 24, 2023

Important Event Details! FIAS 2023

The Florida International Air Show,
November 4th & 5th, Punta Gorda FL Airport, (PGD)

Florida International Air Show
November 4th & 5th, 2023
Punta Gorda FL Airport - PGD
Tickets On Sale Now:
 http://www.floridaairshow.com
Air Show Hotline: Monday - Friday 9am-5pm 1.833.743.3427 

The 2023 Florida International Air Show is only weeks away.  And we will be sending updates about all things 2023 FIAS AIr Show. Parking information, Schedule of Events and More!  Information that will make your 2023 FIAS Air Show Experience, Fun and Enjoyable.

In This Newsletter:
*Matt Younkin & Twin Beech 18 Added to the Performer's Lineup
*Air Show Fun Family Video
*Thursday Night November 2nd "The Tiki Bar" at Four Points by Sheraton Free Kick-Off Concert - "Maverick & Goose" Look a Like Contest; VIP SWAG BAG Raffle Giveaway - $800.00 value. The Drem Big F-18 Hornet 
Saturday Night, November 4th, 7pm Fishermen's Village "Meet & Greet"  The USAF Thunderbirds & 2023 FIAS Performers


In the Next FIAS Newsletter Issue:

Performer's Lineup
Parking Directions 
What to Expect at the Main Gate
Frequently Asked Questions
FIAS Spotify Podcast
And More! 

Matt Youkin added to the 2023 Performing Line-Up

Matt Younkin is a third generation pilot. He is the son of legendary airshow pilot Bobby Younkin, who is famous for his amazing aerobatic displays in the AT-6, Beech 18, Learjet 23, Samson, and most recently, the Super Decathlon. Bobby is considered to be one of the greatest airshow pilots of all time.


Matt is also the grandson of Jim Younkin who is well-known for designing the Century and Trutrak autopilots. Jim is also famous for his antique aircraft restorations, as well as building beautiful replicas of the 1930’s air racers such as the Howard “Mr. Mulligan” and the Travel Air “Mystery Ship.”


Matt learned to fly at the age of 14 from family friend Ken Collier in a Piper J-3 Cub. At age 15, Chuck Irvin, the same instructor who taught Bobby how to fly, refined Matt’s piloting skills. On his sixteenth birthday, Matt soloed his grandfather’s 1928 Travel Air 4000 biplane.



Matt is now proficient in over 85 types of airplanes ranging from the Piper Cub to the Boeing B-29. He is also a fully rated flight instructor and now has almost 5,000 hours of total flying time and currently resides in Siloam Springs, AR.


A CELEBRATION OF AIR SHOWS

SEE VIDEO

The 2023 Florida International Air Show Kicks Off with a FREE Concert at "The Tiki Bar" at the Four Points by Sheraton - Harborside, 5:30pm Thursday, November 2nd, 2023! Local Entertainment to be Announced. Order From the Menu. 

Your Chance to Win Air Show VIP Package! 2023 FIAS VIP Swag Bag Raffle - $800.00 Value!! 4 VIP Tickets - Complimentary Food and Drink in the VIP Tent; VIP Tent Seating on the Flightline; 4 FIAS Fishing Shirts; 4 FIAS Hats; 4 2023 FIAS Color Changing Tumblers! Drawing at 7pm. You Do Not Have To Be Present to Win. 


Don't Miss the Dream Big F-18 Hornet on Thursday Night at The Tiki Bar

“HAVE YOU EVER WANTED TO BE A FIGHTER PILOT? EVER WONDERED WHAT IT’S LIKE TO CLIMB INSIDE A REAL FIGHTER JET?”
Dewey Larson, Brings you the DreamBIG “F/A-18 Hornet (Topgun Maverick) Experience.” This TopGun F/A-18 is a REAL and Historical United States Navy Veteran. It actually Flew Combat Missions and was even part of the famed “Blue Angels”. Stop by for your Opportunity to hear Her Story, Touch History and create a Moment that will last a Lifetime.
DreamBIG allows Visitors to Dress the Part and actually put on a Flight Helmet (from the Maverick Movie) and step inside the Cockpit. Dewey and the Crew will give you a brief tour, take your Picture, and then print it out in moments. Come hear the
History and receive a Memory that will Last a lifetime.
Come DREAMBIG, TOPGUN STYLE!!!


"Maverick & Goose" Look Alike Contest - FIAS Swag Bag includes 2 General Admission Tickets for Each Winner. 


"Meet the USAF Thunderbirds & 2013 FIAS Performers" at the Fishermen's Village Center Court,  Punta Gorda FIAS Air Show "Meet & Greet" Saturday Night, 7pm.  Kids - "Bring Your Earn Wings Certificate for an Autograph." Pick Up a FREE FIAS Coloring Book. Official 2023 FIAS Air Show Programs will be Available for Purchase.  Part of the Festivities of the 2023 Florida International Air Show. 


Thanks "TROPICAL SMOOTHIE" 

Presenting Sponsor for the 2023 FIAS Air Show. 



Thanks "PUNTA GORDA AIRPORT"

Presenting Sponsor for the 2023 FIAS Air Show.



Thanks "Florida Power & Light - FPL"

Presenting Sponsor for the 2023 FIAS Air Show.

September 8, 2025
Punta Gorda, FL — The Florida International Air Show is thrilled to welcome Warbird Thunder to its 2025 lineup, scheduled for November 1–2 at the Punta Gorda Airport. This marks an electrifying return of the North American SNJ Texan — also known as “Ol Growler” — to Southwest Florida’s skies. Warbird Thunder promises an awe-inspiring aerial performance, featuring two SNJ Texans soaring in formation with their signature roar, smoke trails, and engaging aerobatic maneuvers like formation loops, aileron rolls, barrel rolls, and Cuban Eights. The show concludes with stunning opposing aerobatics as the planes separate and then reunite for a dramatic finale. “Warbird Thunder brings a unique mix of history, heritage, and heart-stopping aerobatics,” said Denise Dull, President of the Florida International Air Show . “When those Texans thunder overhead, it’s not just entertainment — it’s a living tribute to the aviators who paved the way for modern flight. We are honored to share that experience with our community.” Highlights of the 2025 Florida International Air Show include: Dynamic performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team A versatile roster of acts, including Aarron Deliu , Doug Litton , and The Chuters Jump Team Exciting new experiences like the Innovators STEM Pavilion and the Family Aviation Experience , both designed to engage and inspire audiences of all ages. Tickets On Sale Now: floridaairshow.com For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or vendor information, contact media@floridaairshow.com or call 941-626-0551 . Don’t miss the power, prestige, and family fun of this award-winning event. Join us for a weekend where aviation’s past, present, and future take flight!
August 29, 2025
PUNTA GORDA, FL — With precision, courage, and patriotic pride, The Chuters Jump Team will thrill thousands of spectators as they soar into Punta Gorda Airport for the Opening Ceremonies of the Florida International Air Show, November 1st and 2nd, 2025. The Chuters Jump Team is a professional parachute demonstration team, veteran-owned and operated, known for their breathtaking aerial jumps and flawless timing. Their performance will include a dramatic descent carrying the American flag, set against the backdrop of the National Anthem — a moment designed to inspire goosebumps and unite the crowd. “Nothing compares to the silence before the jump and the roar of the crowd when we touch down,” said Keith Walter, Director of Operations and has completed over 6000 jumps. “Being able to open such an incredible event with the American flag is an honor we never take lightly. It’s about celebrating freedom, service, and the thrill of flight.” Organizers say The Chuters set the perfect tone for a weekend filled with world-class aviation. “The Opening Ceremonies are always a special part of the show, and this year we’re taking it to the next level,” said Denise Dull, President, Florida International Air Show. “When The Chuters come streaming out of the sky, you feel the energy of the entire crowd shift. It’s patriotic. It’s powerful. And it reminds us why we gather to celebrate aviation, service, and community.” The Florida International Air Show has been a tradition in Charlotte County for more than three decades, drawing families, veterans, and aviation enthusiasts from across the United States. This year’s lineup features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels as headliners, along with the Viper F-16 Demo Team, thrilling aerobatic acts, military aircraft demonstrations, and static displays. Food vendors, kids’ activities, and community exhibits will round out a weekend of high-flying fun. “This isn’t just a show — it’s an experience,” added Steve Lineberry, Media and Publicity Director . “The Chuters remind us that aviation is as much about people as it is about planes. Their performance embodies courage, teamwork, and a sense of pride that resonates with everyone in attendance. Event Details: Dates: Saturday, November 1st & Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 Location: Punta Gorda Airport, Punta Gorda, Florida Tickets: On sale now at www.floridaairshow.com
May 9, 2025
Punta Gorda, FL — May 7, 2025 — The skies over Southwest Florida will roar to life this fall as the Florida International Air Show returns to Punta Gorda Airport on November 1–2, 2025 , with an exhilarating lineup headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team . This year’s show features a dynamic mix of aerial precision, vintage power, and heart-pounding stunts with performers including Warbird Thunder , Aarron Deliu , Doug Litton , and the thrilling parachute team The Chuters . New for 2025, the Air Show proudly introduces two family-friendly attractions : The Innovators STEM Pavilion – a hands-on zone to engage students and families with science, tech, and aviation. The Family Aviation Experience – a fun, interactive area designed to inspire future aviators and entertain all ages. Voted a USA TODAY 10BEST Air Show in America for the second consecutive year , this world-class event continues to attract aviation fans, families, and thrill-seekers from across the country. Tickets go on sale to the public at noon on May 23, 2025 . For performer updates, and opportunities to sponsor , vend , or exhibit , visit www.floridaairshow.com or follow us on social media @florida_air_show. Don’t miss this high-flying celebration of aviation, innovation, and family fun! Media Contact: Steve Lineberry 941-626-0551 media@floridaairshow.com Florida International Air Show www.floridaairshow.com
May 9, 2025
Cleveland, OH – May 2025 – conCHAIRto, the premier provider of premium seating solutions for outdoor music festivals and live events, is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Florida International Air Show (FIAS), scheduled for November 1-2, 2025 in Punta Gorda, Florida. As a valued partner for this event, conCHAIRto will provide comfortable, convenient and sustainable seating solutions that will allow spectators to comfortably experience the speed, sound and scale that only these aircraft can provide. The schedule includes exciting military and civilian performances and displays for audiences of all ages. “As we expand our business reach into air show events," said Brett Smiley, President and Founder of conCHAIRto. "I cannot think of a better partner than the Florida International Air Show. They have been exciting audiences for over 43 years and are rated one of the top 10 air show events in the world. We are here to elevate that experience even more.” The disruptions caused by Hurricanes Milton and Helene forced the cancellation of the 2024 event, the first in its 43-year history. The Florida International Air Show has come back with a bang…or is that a sonic boom? Beginning as a brief single-day event with only a few acts, the show has grown into a multi-day event with family and fan-friendly activities, a large variety of acts, interactive displays and much more. The Punta Gorda Airport plays an integral role in the Air Show’s history — it has hosted the event since its inception. "We look forward to the November 2025 Air Show hosting the US Navy Blue Angels, where we can provide an amazing event in a way that reflects the strength and resilience of our community," Denise Dull, President of the Air Show. Tickets for the 2025 Florida International Air Show go on sale on May 23. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their official website. About conCHAIRto: conCHAIRto is a premier provider of high-quality seating solutions, dedicated to enhancing comfort and style for various events and venues. With a focus on innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship, conCHAIRto delivers products that meet the highest standards of excellence. For more information about conCHAIRto and its range of premium seating solutions, please visit conCHAIRto.com or email us at info@conchairto.com.
October 14, 2024
Air Show Canceled Due to Hurricanes Milton and Helene [Punta Gorda, FL] – In light of the significant impacts of Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene on the community, organizers have made the difficult decision to cancel the 43rd Annual Florida International Air Show. The dual hurricanes have caused widespread damage and disruption across the region, making it impractical to proceed with the event. "Our community is facing tremendous challenges as we recover from the destruction caused by these two powerful storms," said Denise Dull, President of the Air Show. "The safety of our attendees, vendors, and volunteers is our highest priority, and at this time, it is clear that the best course of action is to focus on supporting our community’s recovery efforts." Both hurricanes have resulted in extensive damage to homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure, with many residents still experiencing the impact of these events. As the region continues its recovery efforts, event organizers believe the community’s attention and resources are best directed toward rebuilding and aiding those affected by the storms. While the Air Show is an annual tradition that brings joy and excitement to the area, the decision to cancel was made out of an abundance of caution and care for the community’s well-being. Organizers are committed to bringing the event back stronger once recovery efforts are complete and the community is ready to come together in celebration. "We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and vendors who have worked tirelessly in preparation for this year’s event. Our community partners, PGD, Charlotte County Sheriff, Fire & EMS, are all committed to the safety of Charlotte County and its residents and we would not want to do anything that would create a larger burden on their workload during post hurricane rebuild," added Dull. "We look forward to the November 2025 Air Show hosting the US Navy Blue Angels, where we can provide an amazing event in a way that reflects the strength and resilience of our community." Tickets will be refundable or may be exchanged for the 2025 Air Show. *Note the lower ticket price will be honored as we expect ticket prices will increase. For more information on how to assist in relief efforts, please visit www.coadfl.org About The Florida International Air Show The Florida International Air Show’s mission is to deliver a wholesome family entertainment event celebrating aviation past, present, and inspiring its future.  For further information or media inquiries, please contact: Steve Lineberry 941-626-0551 media@floridaairshow.com
August 12, 2024
PUNTA GORDA, FL. (August 14, 2024) – Southeast Tourism Society (STS) has named the Florida International Airshow one of the Signature Events of the Southeast for 2024. This year’s Florida International AirShow is November 2-3. 2024 held in Punta Gorda, FL. Signature Events of the Southeast, formerly known as “Top 20 Festival and Event Awards”, was launched as part of the 40th Anniversary celebration of Southeast Tourism Society in 2023. STS has recognized events and festivals around the Southeast since 1985. Travel industry experts select top events to be highlighted for the year, and STS publicizes them throughout the United States. The complete list is published on both the Travel Media Press Room and Escape to the Southeast® websites and recognized on all Southeast Tourism Society’s social media platforms. The AirShow will celebrate its 43rd year of presenting exciting entertainment to residents and visitors of Charlotte County on the grounds of the Punta Gorda Airport. Beginning as a single day event, the show has grown to a three day event with fan-friendly activities, a large variety of acts, interactive displays, and much more. “If you’ve not been to an AirShow before, it’s like taking Nascar, pizza, baseball, hotdogs, fireworks, football and Lynyrd Skynyrd and rolling it all into one giant rodeo “says Denise Dull, President of the Florida International AirShow. “There’s something for everyone in the family.” The Florida International Airshow also received a USA TODAY 10Best Readers Choice Award this year for their November 2023 AirShow, which featured the USAF Thunderbirds and was a record attendance year. “For more than 40 years, STS has been spotlighting the best festivals and events in the Southeast. Our goal is to highlight the efforts of devoted event organizers and provide additional media exposure and accolades for their events,” said Monica Smith, President and CEO of Southeast Tourism Society. “The Southeast offers so many unique, year-round, opportunities for tourists and festival goers to create memories and support the tourism industry-–a vital economic generator for communities.” Events considered for the STS Signature Events of the Southeast recognition must be at least three years old and have an attendance of at least 1,000. Nominations open in early spring. Members and non-members are eligible to apply. Winning submissions are automatically judged in the Festival or Event of the Year category for STS’s Shining Example Awards. About Southeast Tourism Society The Southeast Tourism Society (STS) is a not-for-profit membership association dedicated to the development of travel and tourism professionals and organizations within the southeast region. The association’s mission is to empower a diverse network of tourism professionals through Education, Advocacy, Recognition, and Networking. Member states include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, plus the District of Columbia. About Florida International Air Show The Florida International AirShow is a Florida 501(c) 4 nonprofit organization staffed entirely by volunteers. The Airshow is a multi day event showcasing nationally known performers and exciting static displays of aircraft and vehicles. The Airshow offers attendees the opportunity to learn more about aviation, space, and military service. FIAS events provide beneficial exposure to the community and Punta Gorda Airport as a significant economic asset has donated over $3.6 million in contributions to local Southwest charities since its inception. For more information visit www.floridaairshow.com Florida International AirShow Denise Dull, President 941-626-9439 denisedull@floridaairshow.com www.floridaairshow.com
July 2, 2024
BY NANCY SEMON | JULY 2, 2024 | PHOTO CREDIT:FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW
By UBU BRANDS November 10, 2023
Meet Patrick Fuller, Punta Gorda's Emergency Management Director, who recently found himself soaring through the clouds with the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, marking a high-flying chapter in his illustrious career. Having dedicated four years to the Marine Corps and an additional twenty ye