What Is the Difference Between a Fly-In and an Airshow?

There are some subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the two.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, February 07, 2024 at 01:36 PM ET

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An airshow involves aerial acts and typically takes about a year to plan. [Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Airshows are complex events featuring paid aerial acts, requiring extensive FAA approval, NOTAMs, and year-long planning, often with an entry fee.
Fly-ins are simpler, often free events focused on static aircraft displays, sometimes with fly-bys or Young Eagles rides, and typically do not require FAA approval or NOTAMs.
Both airshows and fly-ins require prior approval from the airport sponsor, adequate insurance, and essential infrastructure planning (e.g., restrooms, parking, first aid), necessitating advance communication.

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Question: My community held a fly-in airport day last year in April, and this year, we were told we aren’t going to have it again because the county is planning an airshow for August. Aren’t they basically the same thing?

Answer: Not at all. An airshow involves aerial acts that require an aerobatics box, oft-paid performers and announcers, the designation of a show line (to keep the viewing public out of harm’s way from performers), along with procedures and staff for emergencies, just to mention a few things. The FAA needs to approve the event, and a NOTAM is issued. Airshows usually charge a fee for entry.