In a sad but not surprising announcement today, the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) has confirmed that this will be the final year for the National Championship Air Races at the Reno-Stead Airport.
The annual air races have been held in northern Nevada for almost 60 years.
RARA says the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority decided to end the races for a number of reasons, including the region’s “significant growth”.
In a press release today, race organizers gave thanks to the region, communities and supporters who made Reno and air racing synonymous. And they are inviting aviation fans far and wide to one last Reno Air Races this fall, from Sep 13 to Sep 17.
Race organizers say they are confident that the races can continue elsewhere, and are currently exploring several options to host future races.
One last race in Reno
“While we discuss the future of the Air Races, we are grateful for our time at the Reno-Stead Airport and our partnership with the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority. Our event has generated hundreds of millions of dollars for the local economy, while instilling a love for flying in the community and becoming a valued partner to many charities and non-profits.”
“The 2023 event is set to return with more than 150 planes and pilots,” added RARA, “as well as several ‘hands-on’ displays and experiences including the GRADD-NVBAA STEM Education Discovery Zone, heritage displays, military demonstrations and static displays and more. The event will also mark the third year of competition for the STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) Drag.”
It’s amazing the races even lasted this long. As they were always tarnished by accidents and fatalities, some of which even killed spectators. Even last year, a pilot was sadly killed. You can read the sobering list of fatalities put together by the Reno Gazette here.
