Field of Flight Air Show 2026: No Navy Rhino Demo Team for First Time in 5 Years

The Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival will look different this July. For the first time in five years, the U.S. Navy F/A-18F Rhino Demo Team will not be performing at the annual event, organizers announced this week.

Why the Rhino Team Is Missing

The absence is not by choice. All Navy Demo Teams, including the famed Blue Angels, have received new orders to support the Great American Air Show in Washington, D.C., as well as a major flyover for America's 250th anniversary celebrations in New York City.

The timing coincides with the nation's semiquincentennial...the 250th anniversary of American independence...which is drawing military demonstration teams to high-profile events on the East Coast.

What Is Still Coming to Battle Creek

Festival officials say they will not move their dates because the festival on July 4 is a deeply rooted tradition in the Battle Creek community. And the show will go on with impressive aerial acts still scheduled.

The US Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team will still be participating, giving attendees a chance to see one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world performing precision aerial maneuvers.

Event Details

• Dates: July 1-5, 2026
• Location: Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field
• Headliners: US Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team
• Missing: U.S. Navy F/A-18F Rhino Demo Team (first absence in 5 years)
• Also featured: Hot air balloons, carnival, fireworks, live music

About the Field of Flight Festival

The Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival is one of the region's largest summer events, drawing thousands of visitors to Calhoun County each year. The festival combines military aviation demonstrations with hot air balloon launches, carnival rides, live entertainment, and a massive fireworks display on Independence Day.

For tickets and more information, visit fieldofflight.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show 2026?
A: The festival runs July 1-5, 2026 at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field.

Q: Why is the Navy Rhino Demo Team not coming to Battle Creek this year?
A: All Navy Demo Teams, including the Blue Angels, have been reassigned to support America's 250th anniversary celebrations in Washington, D.C. and New York City.

Q: What military aircraft will still be at the 2026 Field of Flight Air Show?
A: The US Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team will still perform at the Battle Creek festival.

Sources: WWMT News Channel 3 | Field of Flight Official Website | FOX 17