The STIHL Reno Air Races, planned for September 15 to 19, 2021, announced its air show performance line-up, in addition to the seven racing classes that will compete at the famous event. The title sponsor of the races since 2016, STIHL, also expressed its excitement for continuing to support the marquee competition—as well as the overall return to large-scale air show events this year.
Headlining the air show portion of the event will be the US Air Force Thunderbirds, which are scheduled to perform over the weekend on September 18 and 19. The F-22 Raptor Demonstration will take place daily from September 16 to 19, showcasing the fifth-generation fighter.
Tucker’s Air Patrol plans to wow the crowd with two stunts: the Dead Stick Aerobatics Act—in which Eric Tucker stops the prop at one mile in altitude and performs aerobatics as he glides back to the airfield—and his Comedy Act and Car-Top Landing. Jim Peitz Aerosports features an inspiring series of maneuvers in Peitz’ specially optimized Beechcraft F33C Bonanza, while Tony Higa Airshows will not only include Higa joining the race around the pylons, but also performing for the air show in Race #31, TangoTango, his Pitts Special.
The event also hosts the National Aviation Heritage International, a vintage aircraft competition featuring several classes of historic aircraft, which will try for the Neil A. Armstrong Aviation Heritage Trophy. The trophy, established 20 years ago by Rolls-Royce International at the Reno air races, will be presented this year by Perform Air International. Applications are due on August 15 for the competition at heritagetrophy.com
