The El Centro Airshow, March 14, 2026, has been CANCELLED.
NAF El Centro Cancels 2026 Air Show Amid Increased Security Measures
EL CENTRO, Calif. – March 4, 2026 – Naval Air Facility (NAF) El Centro announced yesterday evening the difficult decision to cancel the 2026 NAF El Centro Air Show. The cancellation is a result of heightened security measures and evolving force protection requirements.
"My team and I are disappointed that we have to cancel the air show but the safety of people and equipment are the priority. We will now focus our efforts on making 2027 an EPIC AIRSHOW," said Captain Ryan "Mouth" Carstens, Commanding Officer of NAF El Centro.
The installation made the decision after careful consideration and with the safety of all involved as the top priority. "This was not an easy decision. We know how much our community has been looking forward to this event," said Kristopher Haugh, Public Affairs Officer for the base. "Our team has worked hard alongside performers, partners, and volunteers to plan a safe and memorable show. However, in light of heightened security considerations, cancellation is necessary to ensure the safety of our personnel, performers, and the public," Haugh added.
“We share in the community’s disappointment regarding the cancellation of the NAFEC Air Show. Refunds for Executive Chalet and Box Seating purchases are now being processed and should appear on credit cards within 7 to 10 business days,” said Ray Robinson, Fleet and Family Readiness Program Director. “We sincerely appreciate the continued support and understanding, and our team is already hard at work to ensure the 2027 show is an outstanding event for everyone,” Robinson added.
NAF El Centro leadership expressed their deep appreciation for the unwavering support from Sailors, their families, and the entire Imperial Valley community.
This cancellation does not mark the end of the beloved event. The base has a long history of hosting the air show and has overcome similar challenges in the past. NAF El Centro is already actively planning for the 2027 air show and looks forward to welcoming the community back to the flight line.
The official NAF El Centro website, the El Centro Air Show website, and associated social media channels will post further updates as they become available. Those pages are:
About NAF El Centro:
Naval Air Facility El Centro's mission is to support the combat training and readiness of the Warfighter. The vision is to be the Navy's premier tactical training installation, providing world-class operations, world-class facilities and the highest quality of life for our personnel and their families.