After an eight-year hiatus, the iconic Point Mugu Air Show returned with thunderous excitement to Ventura County, drawing over 205,000 spectators to Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) from March 17–19. This spectacular event made headlines for hosting a rare joint performance of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds—the two premier military flight demonstration teams in the world.
From breathtaking aerial stunts to meaningful tributes, the show was more than just a display of airpower. It was a deeply moving celebration of U.S. military aviation, technological innovation, and the unbreakable bond between service members and the local community. Here’s a full recap of this milestone event and why it left a lasting impact on California’s aviation history.
The NBVC Point Mugu Air Show had not been held since 2015, making this year’s event an eagerly awaited celebration. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains, Naval Base Ventura County opened its gates to the public for a full weekend of excitement, pride, and patriotism.
Event organizers called it the “Super Bowl of Air Shows,” showcasing not just one but two of the world’s most elite aerial performance squads—the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds. Their joint performance marked the only co-headlined event of the year and was a milestone in aviation history in California.
Dual Headliners: Blue Angels and Thunderbirds
The most buzzworthy moment of the air show was undoubtedly the combined presence of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. This rare occurrence created a powerful symbol of unity among U.S. military branches.
Fat Albert C-130J, the support aircraft for the Blue Angels, kicked off the air display with an awe-inspiring demonstration. The Leap Frogs parachute team, part of the U.S. Navy’s elite skydiving crew, descended from the skies bearing the American flag, followed by a roaring welcome from the crowd.
Commander Lt. Col. Justin “Astro” Elliot of the Thunderbirds noted that their participation aimed to create a “positive emotional experience” and boost national pride.
Honoring Women in Naval Aviation
This year’s air show also marked the 50th anniversary of Women in Naval Aviation. The opening ceremony featured an all-women crew flying MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters, a poignant tribute to female aviators who have shaped the course of U.S. Navy history.
Lt. Zoe McFarlane, who led the flight, expressed her pride in representing women in service. Her presence symbolized how the Navy is paving the way for gender equality and inspiring young girls to consider careers in aviation and the military.
STEM, Static Displays & Community Engagement
The air show wasn’t just about aerial acrobatics. Inside the operations hangar, STEM exhibits for students were set up by the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Fathomwerx, and various local organizations. These Naval STEM outreach programs introduced youth to exciting careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Dozens of static aircraft displays, including the E-2D Hawkeye aircraft, were available for up-close exploration. Visitors engaged with pilots and learned about the advanced machinery that supports national defense.
The showcase emphasized community military engagement, offering a hands-on experience to help civilians understand the Navy’s contributions to innovation and security.
Entertainment Beyond the Skies
The event also featured live musical performances. One of the most emotional moments came from Gary Sinise’s performance with the Lt. Dan Band concert. Sinise, known for his role in Forrest Gump, rocked the stage and dedicated his set to military personnel and their families.
Navy Band Southwest, also known as the “Destroyers,” filled the grounds with patriotic music, adding another layer of meaning to an already rich experience.
Organizing the Super Bowl of Air Shows
Pulling off an event of this magnitude required collaboration on all fronts. NBVC anniversary celebration not only commemorated 75 years of Navy presence at Point Mugu but also honored the enduring partnership between military services and the surrounding community.
Support from local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency responders, and city officials was critical. Over 205,000 attendees enjoyed a seamless and safe experience, thanks to the tireless efforts of countless volunteers, Pacific Seabees, and logistics crews from Port Hueneme Navy base.
Lasting Legacy for Ventura County
The air show significantly boosted Ventura County tourism, drawing spectators from nearby cities including Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses flourished, showing the economic benefits of such large-scale public events.
Many attendees hope to see California aviation events like this become a yearly tradition. As one spectator from Oxnard said, “To see the Blue Angels vs Thunderbirds in one show was the definition of ‘Sound of Freedom.’”
Final Words
The 2023 Point Mugu Air Show was a breathtaking spectacle that celebrated more than just planes in the sky—it was a living tribute to the legacy of Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) and the enduring spirit of military-civilian unity. With record-breaking attendance, groundbreaking firsts, and unforgettable performances, the event raised the bar for what a military air show in California can achieve.
Whether it was the roar of jet engines, the beauty of static aircraft displays, or the awe in a child’s eyes at a STEM exhibit, every moment carried a message: service, innovation, and unity.
As we look ahead, one thing is clear: Ventura County doesn’t just host an air show—it soars.
FAQs
1. What is the Point Mugu Air Show?
The Point Mugu Air Show is a large-scale military air show hosted at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), showcasing elite aerial teams like the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds, along with static displays, STEM exhibits, and live entertainment.
2. How often does the Point Mugu Air Show take place?
Historically, the air show has not been held annually. The 2023 event marked its return after an eight-year break, though there is hope within the community for it to become an annual tradition.
3. What are some featured attractions besides aerial performances?
In addition to jet shows, the event includes STEM exhibits for students, Gary Sinise performances, the Lt. Dan Band concert, static aircraft displays, and food and vendor stalls, offering a family-friendly experience.
4. Were there any notable milestones at the 2023 show?
Yes, the event celebrated 75 years of Navy presence at NBVC and the 50th anniversary of Women in Naval Aviation. It was also the only 2023 show to feature both the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds.
5. Is the Point Mugu Air Show open to the public?
Yes, it is a free, open-to-the-public event attracting over 200,000 spectators, including civilians, military families, and veterans from across California and beyond.
