4 days ago
Beale Air and Space Expo: Know before you go
The highly anticipated Beale Air and Space Expo June 7 and 8 takes attendees on-base to watch cutting-edge aircraft take to the skies.
Here's everything you need to know before going.
In the Air
There'll be no shortage of things to do and see during the Expo. Dozens of aircraft will perform throughout the day, including the U-2 Dragon Lady, the T-38 Talon, the Air Force Thunderbirds, the Navy F-18 Rhino Demo Team and more. A few featured performers include Australian professional aerobatic and air race pilot Aarron Deliu, Vicky Benzing piloting a 1950 Boeing Stearman bi-plane, and 'Scratch' Mitchell in a T-33 Shooting Star. USAF Parachutists will also perform.
On the Ground
Thirty-seven aircraft from various military branches and bases will be on static display on-ground, including the U-2 from Beale AFB, the F-35A from Luke AFB in Arizona and the U.S. Navy T-33 'Blue Angel' Shooting Star from Salt Lake City. You can view civilian aircraft as well, like CalFire's FH-60 Firehawk.
Precision Exotics will showcase 'dream cars' like Lamborghinis and Ferraris.
Hands-on learning and activities will be available for kids of all ages at the STEM zone. Future aviators, engineers and scientists can engage with interactive exhibits, flight simulators and more.
General Admission
General admission is free, but if you plan to drive, you must secure a parking pass online. The parking pass is free and good for all occupants in the vehicle.
Drivers will be routed to available parking areas and may require a shuttle service (complimentary) of more than 20 minutes.
Parking passes are not available day-of and have to be secured online.
Parking opens at 8 a.m. on the day of the event and gates will be closed to incoming traffic at 1:30 p.m.
Premium parking closest to the entrance is available with the purchase of Elevated Experience packages.
Elevated Experiences
There are three Elevated Experience packages available:
Ground Level Access ($35 per vehicle): This package gives you one complimentary premium parking pass for the Skyline Lot (good for all vehicle occupants), one commemorative poster when your pass is presented at the BMLC Booth and a dedicated security checkpoint.
The Flight Deck Package ($50 per person, children under five years free when accompanied by paid admission) grants access to a shaded viewing area on the flightline. You can bring your own chairs but no open umbrellas are allowed.
With the purchase of two Flight Deck packages, you can receive a complimentary premium parking pass for the Skyline Lot. If you only want to purchase one Flight Deck package, you can get a preferred parking pass for $15.
Flight Deck packages also come with in-and-out privileges (no seat-saving) and a dedicated security checkpoint line.
The Recce Town Experience is the most elite package. Prices vary: $195 for adults and $100 for children ages five to 12. Children under five are free when accompanied by paid admission.
You'll be granted access to a premium flightline viewing area with a spacious tent for shade and outdoor seating for viewing.
With every two Recce Town Experiences purchased, receive one premium parking pass in the Skyline Lot. If you only want to purchase one Recce Town Experience, you can get a preferred parking pass for $15.
Also included is access to a luxury bathroom with air conditioning, a commemorative air show poster, light snacks, a buffet lunch, two complimentary tickets for alcoholic beverages (ages 21+), access to a full bar for additional drinks, complimentary water, in-and-out privileges and a dedicated security checkpoint line.
A table for eight can be reserved for $2,500 per table for either day.
Volunteers
People 18 years and older can volunteer at the Expo in a variety of ways, including guest navigation and behind-the-scenes logistics.
Identification
Everyone 18 and older must keep a valid federal or state ID on them at all times. Those who do not have an ID can use one of the following:
Employment Authorization Documents (Form 1-766)
Permanent Resident Cards, aka Green Cards (Form 1-551)
Foreign passport bearing an unexpired immigrant or non-immigrant visa or entry stamp and arrival-departure records (Form I-94, Form I-94W or DoD issued CAC w/ Blue Stripe.
You are not required to present your ID for base access on the day of the Expo, but you may be asked for it at any time while attending, so keep it readily available.
Prohibited Items
Weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, pocket tools, scissors, box cutters, billy clubs, large heavy chain link jewelry or belts, mace and pepper spray
Firearms of any kind
Toys that resemble firearms, including laser pointers
Illegal drugs
Marijuana
Alcohol
Backpacks (diaper bags are subject to search)
Bikes, skateboards, rollerblades
Walkie-talkies, HAM radios, scanners
RC aircraft and drones
Flammable items and fireworks
Pets (except for service animals)
Spray paint and silly string
Outside food, coolers, grills or glass containers
Glass bottles
Liquid without factory seal intact (baby bottles are exempt)
All vehicles are subject to search. Banned items will be confiscated and/or cause visitors to be turned away at the gate.
For more information, tickets, volunteer signups and more, visit