USAF Thunderbirds roar across the DMV for air show

SUITLAND, Md. (DC News Now) — Look up to the skies this weekend — the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will be in town to dazzle audiences for the 2025 Joint Base Andrews Airshow.

DMV residents may be able to hear the roar of the jets this weekend.

Elite pilots gave local students a special preview before the air show kicks off the weekend. 

“Fly high, Airmen!” said student Zayne Skebong.

The legendary Air Force Thunderbirds took flight over the National Mall Friday morning for a formation photoshoot above the national monuments.

“If you think about how much skill they use to do that,” said Skebong. “I’m thinking about how time they’ve practiced to do this and how much skill they need to do it.”

Pilots on base are showcasing military air power today for 2,500 students across the DMV.

“I’ve explored a lot of different areas of STEM regarding the aerospace stuff,” said 12th grader Tommy Carmody. “And to have the awesome planes flying in the background of it. You couldn’t ask for much more.”

The kids got hands-on learning with exhibits encouraging careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and math—or even military aviation.

“I’d like to be a fighter pilot,” said Carmody.

This weekend, families can catch some of the best pilots in the world wow crowds with gravity-defying moves.

“As somebody who’d want to be in that seat one day, it’s super inspiring to me,” said Carmody.

Guests will also get to see performances from the Thunderbirds, U.S. Army Golden Knights and more—pushing the limits of aviation to inspire the next generation.

“Knowing that that next generation is going to follow in our footsteps and hopefully just inspire the next generation, it’s a huge privilege for me to be here,” said pilot Jacqueline Girardin.

Admission to the air show is free, and parking is free for visitors at Northwest Stadium with free shuttle rides to the base. Gates open at 9:00 a.m.