Duluth Air Show Brings In A Whole New Slew Of WWII Planes For 2026
The Duluth Air and Aviation Expo, presented by Essentia Health and Members Cooperative Credit Union, is just weeks away, and there are some really unique and exciting planes and performers scheduled for 2026. The Duluth Airshow happens July 11-12 at the Duluth International Airport.
P-38 Lightning
World War II history buffs like myself are really excited to see the P-38 Lightning coming to the Northland. Airshow organizers have been trying for years to get a P-38 at the show, but it's a challenge because there are fewer than 10 of them left flying in the United States.
The P-38 has a special connection to the Northland as it was the fighter plane that Richard Bong flew in the Pacific Theater in World War II. Major Bong is the all-time leading U.S. ace of World War II with 40 confirmed aerial victories against Japan, and he flew the P-38.
You'll get the chance to see the P-38 "23 SKIDOO," presented by the Bong Veterans' Center, as one of the performers on both Saturday and Sunday. They also have some special historic flyovers planned for the Northland. Check back for updates on that. You won't want to miss it!
Two B-25 Mitchell Bombers
This year, there'll be two WWII B-25 Bombers! The B-25 Miss Mitchell and B-25 Rosie's Reply are both performing at the airshow. Miss Mitchell will be returning again to the Duluth Airshow, while Rosie's Reply flies in from Michigan for her first time in Duluth.
Rides Aboard B-25 Bombers Available
This is awesome! Have you ever wanted to fly in a World War II bomber? Here's your chance! Rosie's Reply is flying in from the Michigan Flight Museum, and they're offering rides on the Friday before the Airshow, and before and after the Airshow on Saturday and Sunday. You can purchase tickets online for multiple flights. More information can be found on the Michigan Flight Museum's website.
New Warbird Static Displays
One of the coolest things about the Duluth Air and Aviation Expo is that you can see World War II warbirds up close. This year, they are bringing in some planes that have never been to Duluth.
You'll have the chance to see the iconic P-51 Mustang fighter in person. The Mustang was developed during WWII and saw service in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.
Other World War II planes on display include the Corsair, the Wildcat, and World War II-era training aircraft like the BT-13 and PT-22.
Read More: The Real Story Behind Duluth's Veteran's Park Medal Of Honor Recipient
Air Force Thunderbirds Headline Duluth Airshow
The Air Force Thunderbirds are back! They'll be the highlight of a full day of performances on Saturday and Sunday. Stunt planes, military jets, tanker flyovers, the USAF Parachute team, and other performers will all lead up to the prestigious Thunderbirds. It's going to be a show you definitely don't want to miss, July 11 and 12, 2026.
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Gallery Credit: Stacey Marcus
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