FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The Fort Lauderdale Air Dot Show is underway, with locals and visitors ready for the action.
“The kids love it. I used to come when I was a kid. I wanted to bring them so they can see,” said South Florida resident Michael Dorry.
You’ll hear the jets before you ever see them.
The fast-moving fighters roar overhead, racing across the sky.
“The planes are too fast to record. You got to keep up with them big time,” said local Courtney Cardozo.
When they finally come into view, it’s nothing short of spectacular.
“I think the first Thunderbirds, I think there were six of them. I think there was the Raptor jets, I think. It was pretty cool,” Dorry said.
Also on the program is a squad of Navy pilots flying F/A-18 Super Hornets.
Clifton “Marv” Helterbran, a South Florida native, is taking part in the air show for the first time. Helterbran will be calling the shots over the radio as a weapons specialist operator.
“Speed, a lot of speed, a lot of noise. It’s great enthusiasm. Every single one of us loves what we do. That’s why we’re out here,” Helterbran said.
It’s that enthusiasm — and speed — that drew families out a day early.
“They’ve enjoyed it. A little loud for the little one. They’ve enjoyed it. It’s a cool show for the little one,” Dorry said.
Local 10 spoke with Fort Lauderdale Air Dot Show spokesman Chris Dorado, who says crowds will be massive over the weekend.
“Yes, I mean tens of thousands actually over the next, each day, both Saturday and Sunday,” Dorado said. “It’s going to be terrific event. You know, the weather is cooperating thanks to you meteorologists, so they performed the magic touch.”
Dorado highlighted the headlining acts, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
“But we’re going to have a great event, you know, of course the headliners, US Air Force Thunderbirds, and that’s everybody’s fan favorite. They fly 18 inches apart in formation flying, so there’s something to behold,” he said.
Local 10’s Gabrielle Arzola pointed to the speed of the aircraft on display.
“You’ll actually hear them before you see them. And let’s also keep in mind, fun fact, I looked this up, that F-18 can go a little over 11,100 mph.”
Dorado said the event carries added meaning this year.
“Yeah, I mean, and that’s a big thing, you know, we have a heavy military flavor as a result of that, America’s 250th birthday. It’s a signature event and we’re so happy to bring this great show to the fans of Fort Lauderdale and South Florida.”
He also pointed to other aircraft in the lineup.
“So you know we have the F-22 Raptor, and they are. Maneuverable, the fastest and maneuverable fighter jet in the world,” he said. “And we have the F/A-18 Super Hornet with the Navy, so the Red Bull Air Force is here. We have a little bit of everything for everybody.”
On viewing access, Dorado said beachgoers will have options.
“Well, yeah, south of Sunrise, and you know premium viewing tickets are available,” he said.
“Go to the website and check out and see what’s what’s suitable for your budget or go on the free side of the beach and you know the beaches are going to be packed so it’s going to be hot today. Make sure you hydrate, bring suntan lotion, but you’re gonna have a great day watching these talented aviators,” Dorado added.
Click here to read more information about the show.
Copyright 2026 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.
