After almost sixty years based in Nevada, the National Championship Air Races are soaring into a bright new chapter this fall in New Mexico. From September 10 to 14, the skies over Roswell Air Center will pulse with engines roaring as aircraft race wingtip to wingtip at speeds exceeding 500 mph. This relocation isn’t just a change of scenery — it’s a launchpad for renewed excitement in aviation.
The Reno Air Racing Association (RARA) selected Roswell following an extensive national search. RARA’s CEO, Fred Telling, praised the city’s readiness and support, saying they recognized Roswell’s “enthusiasm and resources to expand the future of our races for many generations to come.”
What to Expect at the Races
This multi-day event brings together competition, exhibition, and public programming. Spectators will see a mix of high-speed racing and aviation demonstrations, with opportunities to engage throughout the venue.
Competitive Race Classes
The 2025 races include the following classes of aircraft classes:
- Jet
- Unlimited
- T-6
- Biplane
- Formula 1
- STOL (short takeoff and landing)
These categories differ in engine type, aircraft design, and speed range, but all follow closed-circuit pylon courses (except STOL) designed for tight turns and maximum spectator visibility. The Jet and Unlimited classes feature the fastest aircraft, with speeds regularly exceeding 500 mph. STOL operates on a designed course about 2,000 feet in either direction in a test of stop and start accuracy.
Flight Demonstrations and Exhibits
In addition to the core races, the schedule includes:
- Military flyovers
- Aerobatic performances
- Static aircraft displays
- Pilot meet-and-greets and open pits
Each element is designed to bring attendees closer to aviation in action. Race heats occur throughout the five-day schedule, culminating in championship rounds on Sunday.
Inside a Typical Race Day
The 2025 National Championship Air Races will take place September 10–14 at the Roswell Air Center, with racing and demonstrations scheduled throughout the week. Each day features a unique mix of race heats, flight performances, and aviation programming. While the full schedule for 2025 has not yet been released, past years give a helpful frame of reference for how the event is typically organized.
The following is an example schedule from a previous year and is subject to change. The official 2025 schedule will be announced closer to the event date.
Example Saturday Schedule (Based on 2023)
- 7:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | Open Qualification Sessions – All Classes
- 10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. | Formula One – Heat 1C
- 10:45 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. | STOL Drag – Heat 1
- 11:20 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. | Formula One – Heat 1B
- 11:45 a.m. – 12:20 p.m. | STOL Drag – Heat 2
- 12:20 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Formula One – Heat 1A
- 12:45 p.m. – 1:20 p.m. | STOL Drag – Heat 3
- 1:20 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Civilian Performer
- 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Jet Class – Heat 1B
- 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | T-6 – Heat 1C
- 2:30 p.m. – 2:40 p.m. | Sponsor Aircraft Demonstration
- 2:40 p.m. – 3:10 p.m. | Sport Class – Heat 1D*
- 3:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m. | Civilian Performer
- 3:20 p.m. – 3:50 p.m. | T-6 – Heat 1B
- 3:50 p.m. – 4:20 p.m. | Military Demonstration
- 4:20 p.m. – 4:50 p.m. | Jet Class – Heat 1A
*Sport Class is not participating in the 2025 National Championship Air Races
To be among the first to receive the official 2025 schedule and ticket announcements, visit the event schedule page or sign up as an Air Race Insider.
Public Programs and Access
In addition to high-speed racing, the event features educational initiatives and logistical support to make the experience accessible for every attendee.
STEM Discovery Zone
The event includes a dedicated STEM Discovery Zone designed for school-age attendees. Exhibits focus on the principles of flight, propulsion, and aerodynamics, with hands-on activities and flight simulators. This zone is free with event admission and reflects RARA’s educational mission.
Ticketing and Lodging
Tickets are available now, and passes range from general admission to VIP packages with pit access and reserved seating. Children five and under enter free with a paying adult.
Accommodation options include:
- Hotels and motels Roswell, Carlsbad, Clovis, Artesia, and beyond.
- Short-term vacation rentals
- RV parking and camping zones near the venue
Parking, shuttle routes, and ADA-accessible services are outlined in the official Plan Your Trip guide.
Volunteer Opportunities
RARA operates a year-round flight training scholarship program that supports aspiring pilots in pursuing careers in aviation.
Adult volunteers are welcome to support the races through roles in ticketing, logistics, and guest services. Those interested can sign up through the official volunteer page.
Roswell as Host City
Roswell’s selection as host reflects both its technical capacity and its aviation background. The Roswell Air Center, originally Walker Air Force Base, now serves as a commercial and industrial aviation facility with long runways and low-traffic airspace — ideal conditions for air racing.
RARA has framed the Roswell event as a long-term investment in southern New Mexico, citing the city’s potential to carry the races forward for future generations.
Clear Your Calendar for Takeoff
With five days of high-speed races, flight demos, and public programming, the 2025 National Championship Air Races are shaping up to be one of the year’s most anticipated aviation events in the Southwest. Schedule details, ticket options, and travel info are available now at airrace.org, and lodging is expected to fill quickly.
Plan a single day or stay for the full weekend, but make arrangements early. When engines fire up over Roswell this September, you’ll want to be in position. The skies won’t just be loud; they’ll be historic.
Posted by LasCruces.com
