The initiative, launched in partnership with Charlotte County Public Schools, gave each participating student a free ticket to the air show and a full morning of interactive STEM and aviation learning.

Led by Deelynn Bennett, retired Charlotte County educator and Innovator STEM Program Director for the Air Show, the event’s Innovators STEM Tent connected students with aviation and technology professionals for hands-on demonstrations and career exploration.

Participating organizations included Simpilot/Alex Rodriquez, Flybright/Austin Pulliam, Charlotte Technical College programs in aviation maintenance, IT, automotive, and electricity, Aviation Start/Jamail Larkins, Career Source Southwest Florida, Women in Aviation – Southwest Florida Chapter, Charlotte County Public Works, and Suncoast Bi-Planes, among others.

“This is what education looks like when you put real opportunity in front of kids,” Bennett said. “When students meet real pilots, engineers, and innovators, the idea of a future in aviation becomes real. They realize these careers are within reach.”

A highlight of the program was AviationStart Founder Jamail Larkins, who earned his pilot’s license at 14 and is now a national aviation ambassador. Larkins visited Charlotte County middle schools before the air show to speak about aviation career paths, STEM learning, and goal setting.

The Charlotte Community Foundation funded the initiative, marking the first time a community-backed STEM education program of this size has been featured at the Air Show.

“We are committed to opening doors for the next generation,” said the Florida International Air Show president. “This partnership strengthened our community, expanded access, and gave students the chance to see themselves in high-skill, high-opportunity careers. We look forward to building on this success in future years.”

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Despite the setback, organizers and volunteers delivered a weekend packed with aerial excitement and community spirit.

“The cancellation of the Blue Angels was beyond our control and incredibly disappointing,” said Denise Dull, president of the Florida International Air Show. “However, our over 500 dedicated volunteers, performers, and Board members rallied to create an Air Show that our guests will remember. Plans are already underway for an even bigger and better 2026 show, and we are deeply grateful for everyone who came out to support us.”

The Air Show’s lineup included several last-minute additions that kept spectators on their feet. Randy Ball performed with three MIG-17 fighter jets—a first for any Florida air show—joined by Matt Younkin in the Twin Beech 18, legendary aerobatic pilot Patty Wagstaff, international performer Aaron Deliu, Doug Litton, Warbird Thunder, and the Chuters Jump Team.

Thirteen-year-old Josie Sal opened the event with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem as the Veteran’s Airlift Command T-34s flew in formation overhead. The Air Show also honored over 50 new military recruits with a swearing-in ceremony before family, friends, and attendees.

One of the weekend’s standout additions was the Innovators STEM Pavilion, which engaged students and guests with hands-on activities highlighting aviation, engineering, and technology.

“Even without the Blue Angels, our lineup showcased some of America’s best aviators and performers,” said Constance Hite, FIAS Air Operations Director. “The skill, precision, and excitement on display truly reflected the heart of this Air Show.”

The Florida International Air Show, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has donated more than $3.5 million to local charities since its founding. The all-volunteer event continues to make a major economic impact in Charlotte County, generating approximately $5 million at its most recent show.

Preparations for the 2026 Air Show are already underway, promising even more excitement in the skies over Punta Gorda.

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Jamail Larkins, a nationally recognized aviation entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, and the FAA’s first Ambassador for Aviation and Space Education, will bring his high-energy DreamLaunch program directly to local students. The initiative encourages young people to set ambitious goals, embrace STEM education, and recognize the boundless opportunities available to them.

 “We are thrilled to partner with Jamail Larkins to bring DreamLaunch to Charlotte County,” said Denise Dull, President, Florida International Air Show. “This program gives our middle school students not only an up-close connection to aviation but also the tools and inspiration to dream bigger than they ever imagined.”

Through interactive storytelling and real-life experiences, Larkins will highlight the importance of perseverance, education, and innovation – values that align perfectly with the Air Show’s mission of inspiring the next generation.

“DreamLaunch is about helping young people realize that their dreams are within reach if they’re willing to put in the effort,” said Jamail Larkins. “ Your background shouldn’t be a barrier to realizing your dreams. You can make any dream a reality if you’re willing to work hard at it.  I’m excited to share this message in Charlotte County, especially during a week where aviation and STEM take center stage.”

The Florida International Air Show, happening November 1–2, 2025, at Punta Gorda Airport, will feature world-class performances, including the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Warbird Thunder, and top aerobatic pilots. Bringing DreamLaunch to Charlotte County Middle Schools adds an important educational component to the week’s festivities.

For more information about the Florida International Air Show and its community programs, visit www.floridaairshow.com.

DreamLaunch – www.aviationstart.org

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The Blue Angels, performing in Punta Gorda for the first time since 2012, are joined by the U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demo Team, showcasing the versatility of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Other performers include aerobatic champion Aaron Deliu, precision pilot Doug Litton, and Warbird Thunder’s World War II-era North American SNJ Texans.

The Chuters Jump Team, a veteran-owned parachute group, will open the ceremonies with a patriotic flag descent during the National Anthem.

This year’s show expands beyond the skies with two interactive attractions: the Innovators STEM Pavilion, featuring drones, robotics, and hands-on aviation displays, and the Family Aviation Experience, designed to inspire the next generation of aviators.

In addition to aerial performances, the event spotlights education. Jamail Larkins, a nationally recognized aviation entrepreneur and the FAA’s first Ambassador for Aviation and Space Education, will bring his DreamLaunch program to Charlotte County middle schools during Air Show week. Larkins, who began flying at age 14, uses storytelling and interactive discussions to motivate students to pursue STEM and chase ambitious goals.

“The Florida International Air Show is about more than thrilling performances,” said Denise Dull, president of the Air Show. “It’s about inspiring young people, honoring aviation history, and giving back to our community.”

Dull encourages thrill-seekers to buy their tickets early for the best prices and seats. Tickets can be purchased online only at www.floridaairshow.com. These are the lowest prices available for the show; prices will increase at the gate. There is a discount for veterans and active military members.

For performer updates, visit www.floridaairshow.com or follow us on social media @florida_air_show. 

Staffed entirely by volunteers, the FIAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that has donated more than $3 million to Southwest Florida charities over its 43-year history.

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