The 2025 Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana Air Show welcomed more than 300,000 spectators Sept. 19–21 to experience thrilling flight demonstrations, cutting-edge static displays, and a celebration honoring 250 years of America’s Navy.
The annual NAS Oceana Air Show is the Navy’s way of giving back to the community by sharing the very best of naval aviation. Free and open to the public, this year’s event drew families from across the country and around the world to witness the power of naval aviation and be inspired by the skill, professionalism, and teamwork of the men and women of the U.S. military.
“This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating 250 Years of America’s Navy,’ made the 2025 air show truly historic,” said Capt. Josh Appezzato, NAS Oceana’s commanding officer. “It was an incredible opportunity to honor our Navy’s past, showcase the strength of today’s fleet, and inspire the next generation to carry us into the future.”
The two-day show featured action-packed aerial performances, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the F-35C Lightning II Demonstration Team, the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, and an Air Power Demonstration featuring local squadrons from Carrier Air Wing 1 (CVW-1) which highlighted the speed, precision, and power of Navy tactical aviation.
Partnering with Virginia Beach City Public Schools and Chesapeake Public Schools, NAS Oceana transformed the flight line into a massive “STEM Laboratory,” where more than 8,000 students engaged with more than 200 hands-on exhibits for their STEM Education Field Trip on Friday, Sept. 19.
“Providing STEM-related engagement opportunities during this field trip and throughout the weekend is one of the most unique ways we can help ensure the next generation has the tools and inspiration to drive innovation forward,” said Debbie Patch, NAS Oceana’s school liaison.
In total, over 8,000 students, teachers, and chaperones explored robotics, 3-D printing, underwater remote vehicles, science experiments, and demonstrations from more than 200 local, regional, and national organizations, including Dominion Energy, Virginia Department of Transportation, Naval Expeditionary Combat Command, Virgnia Beach Public Library, Old Dominion University, and Tidewater Community College.
Though Friday’s STEM Laboratory was dedicated to Virginia Beach City Public School and Chesapeake Public School fifth graders, hundreds of STEM exhibits were available for all to enjoy throughout the weekend.
The celebration continued Saturday night at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront with Beach Blast. More than 12,000 attendees filled 31st Street Park to enjoy a free concert by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band, a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-35C Lightning II afterburner flyover, a precision parachute demonstration by Skydive Suffolk, and a special introduction to the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
The show’s success was made possible by a team of nearly 800 military volunteers, municipal partners from Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Suffolk, Portsmouth, two regional school systems, and more than 40 local and veteran-owned businesses.
“The NAS Oceana Air Show would not be possible without the support of our community and the hard work of hundreds of dedicated people,” said Greg Courrier, NAS Oceana Air Show director. “From our world-class performers to the volunteers and first responders behind the scenes, this was truly a team effort to deliver a top-notch event to help celebrate 250 years of the U.S. Navy.”
Emergency preparedness and public safety were also a joint effort. Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services partnered with over 100 regional fire, EMS and healthcare agencies, while more than 300 Navy Security Forces and local, state, and federal law enforcement specialists ensured a safe experience for all.
For those who could not attend in person, the air show was once again livestreamed around the globe. Anchored by the Navy Exchange Service Command and Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation, the two-day broadcast included cockpit footage, performer interviews, shout-outs, and vendor features. The livestream reached audiences in 102 countries, with over 200K total views and more than 38 hours of watch time.
Without the continued support from the local community, free family-friendly events like the NAS Oceana Air Show and Beach Blast would not be possible.
“On behalf of Team Oceana, thank you to our neighbors, partners, and guests for making this year’s show such a resounding success,” said Appezzato. “Your support means the world to our sailors and their families, and together we’ve created a celebration worthy of our Navy’s 250th anniversary.”
Date Taken: | 09.30.2025 |
Date Posted: | 10.10.2025 14:59 |
Story ID: | 550112 |
Location: | VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA, US |
Web Views: | 65 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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