Two Legendary Jets; One Great Airshow
Florida International Air Show | November 7–8, 2026 | Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), Punta Gorda, Florida
One jet traces its story to the skies of the Cold War. The other grew from an aircraft that served the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. This November, both will fly at Punta Gorda Airport, giving Florida International Air Show guests a rare opportunity to experience two very different chapters of aviation history in one weekend.
Bill Culberson of FighterJets, Inc. will fly the MiG-17. Developed in the Soviet Union, the fighter became well known for its agility and its role in the Vietnam War. Its swept-wing silhouette recalls an era when jet aircraft were changing rapidly and pilots on opposing sides were learning what those machines could do. Seeing a MiG-17 in flight brings that history off the page and into the sky above Punta Gorda.
Rick Sharpe, also of FighterJets, Inc., will pilot the TA-4J Skyhawk. The TA-4J is a two-seat trainer descended from the Douglas A-4, a compact carrier-based attack aircraft used by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The Skyhawk later found another place in aviation history when the Blue Angels flew A-4s from 1974 to 1986. Sharpe’s aircraft carries the unmistakable outline of that versatile jet family.
“These aircraft connect generations. Some guests will remember when the MiG-17 and Skyhawk made headlines; younger visitors may be seeing them for the first time. Bringing both to Punta Gorda lets families experience that history together—and feel the excitement of jet flight for themselves.” Denise Dull, president of the Florida International Air Show, stated.
The jets are part of a full weekend at the airport. Aarron Deliu, Red Bull athlete Kevin Coleman and Franklin Flying Circus will bring aerobatics to the flightline. The Chuters Jump Team and Precision Exotics add to the lineup. On the ground, visitors can explore static aircraft, meet exhibitors, visit food vendors and take part in family activities. The STEM Innovator’s Pavilion offers young guests another way to discover what makes flight possible.
The Florida International Air Show takes place Saturday and Sunday, November 7–8, 2026, at Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) in Punta Gorda, Florida. Gates open at 9 a.m. each day. Tickets are on sale at floridaairshow.com/tickets; choose the date you plan to attend, as tickets are valid only for the day purchased. The show is scheduled rain or shine.
Come for the jets. Stay for a day of aviation, discovery and family fun.
