The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA), based in Reno, Nevada, has announced that the National Championship Air Races will feature all seven race classes at its September event in Roswell. It will be the first time the full lineup appears at the New Mexico venue. The Sport and Unlimited classes, which did not participate in 2025, are set to return following discussions between class representatives and organizers. Those talks focused on addressing outstanding concerns ahead of this year’s races.
The National Championship Air Races are held annually under the direction of RARA, a nonprofit organization. Originally established in northern Nevada, the event spent decades there building a reputation as one of the premier air racing competitions before relocating to Roswell, New Mexico. It now draws visitors from around the world, with a program that includes multiple racing classes, static aircraft displays, and a mix of military and civilian flight demonstrations. Economic impact studies have estimated that the event contributes up to $100 million annually to the local economy.
With their return, the event will include the Biplane, Formula 1, Jet, T-6, and STOL Drag classes, alongside the Sport and Unlimited categories. “We pride ourselves on being the only event in the world where fans can see seven classes of air racing. With the Sport and Unlimited classes back, we can’t wait to show first-time attendees what a full field of air racing looks like and welcome back longtime fans,” said Fred Telling, chairman and CEO of RARA (event producers of NCAR). Unlimited Class president Dennis Sanders, whose family has been involved in air racing for more than 50 years, said, “I have looked forward to racing in September most of my life, and I cannot wait to continue that tradition in Roswell this September. I am looking forward to seeing friends, family, and the amazing air race fans I have come to know over the years.“
Event organizers say the full schedule will include competition across all seven classes throughout the week. Attendees with pit passes will have access to aircraft from each category, including the returning Sport and Unlimited classes. In addition to the races, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds are scheduled to perform on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, along with several civilian airshow acts.
“We’ve worked diligently with both classes for the last several months to address and find solutions to any outstanding issues,” added Tony Logoteta, president and COO of RARA. “I’m thankful for the leadership and cooperation from the race classes and all others involved in ensuring the whole September Family can be together this year.” “We’ve had some really great conversations with RARA moving forward into the 2026 season, and we’re excited to come back,” said Sean VanHatten, Sport Class president. “We have a really great working relationship with everyone here and think it’s going to be a really great event. We’re working towards a really strong showing for the class again this year.” Ticket sales will begin with a pre-sale period for Air Race Insiders and season ticket holders through early April. General ticket sales are expected to open in mid-April. For more information and to support the Reno Air Racing Association, click on the link: airrace.org.
