National championship air races return to Roswell with more planes and new experiences
The national championship air races are back in Roswell, New Mexico, for their second year, featuring expanded racing classes, new attractions, and an economic boost for the city.
ROSWELL, N.M. —
The national championship air races are returning to Roswell, New Mexico, tomorrow for their second year, bringing more planes, new experiences, and economic benefits to the city.
Planes were already taking to the sky today as teams made their final preparations for five days of racing.
“It’s seven classes of different types of aircraft racing. We have six that race around closed-course pylons, kind of like NASCAR but in the sky and a whole bunch faster,”
Tony Logoteta, Chief Operating Officer for National Championship Air Races, said.
This year, the event has expanded, with two racing classes added that were missing from last year. Organizers said the absence of an emergency landing strip was the biggest factor, but with the strip now in place, all seven classes are ready to race.
“We got the whole family back together, all seven classes. So you’re going to come out and you’re going to see something like you literally can’t see anywhere else in the world,” Logoteta said.
Roswell Mayor Tim Jennings said this year’s event is shaping up to be even bigger than last year.
“Last year we had 44 planes. Today we have more than double that. And so we’re ecstatic,” Jennings said.
Fans can also look forward to new experiences on the ground.
“Microsoft Flight Simulator is going to be on site this week, and they’ve just announced their new addition to the Flight Sim 24 product, which is the updated Roswell race courses,” Logoteta said.
This gives fans an early chance to virtually experience the same Roswell race courses they’ll be watching in real life.
Jennings also highlighted the economic impact of last year’s inaugural races, which extended beyond Roswell.
“Last year we booked out hotels in Carlsbad, Artesia, Roswell. And I mean, it was packed and it’s just great for our economy,” Jennings said.
After nearly six decades of racing in Reno, Nevada, both the city and organizers are committed to keeping the event in Roswell.
“We have absolutely no intention of ever moving the races; We’re here in Roswell to stay,” organizers said.
The races run from tomorrow through Sunday, with gates opening at 7:30 a.m. each day. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will perform Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Purchase tickets here: https://airrace.org/tickets
