The anticipated appearance of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels at the upcoming Wings Over North Georgia airshow is in serious jeopardy, as the ongoing federal government shutdown has grounded the popular flight demonstration team.

Scheduled as the headlining act for the show, which runs from October 17–19 at Richard B. Russell Regional Airport in Rome, organizers remain hopeful that Congress will resolve the budget impasse before the weekend, allowing the Angels to take flight.

The current government shutdown, which began after appropriations for the Department of War expired at 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2025, has suspended all non-essential military operations, including public appearances by the Blue Angels.

The Blue Angels’ official website confirms the impact on personnel status: “Military personnel will continue in normal duty status, without pay, until such time as a continuing resolution or appropriations are passed by Congress and signed into law. Civilian personnel not engaged in excepted activities will be placed in a non-work, non-pay status.”

The effects of the shutdown are already visible in the airshow circuit. The Blue Angels were notably absent from their most recent scheduled performance at the California International Airshow in Salinas only last weekend.

Organizers Remain Optimistic and Emphasize Backup Acts

Despite the uncertainty, JLC Airshow Management is projecting confidence that the standoff in Washington will end soon.

“We are hoping that the shutdown ends and the Angels fly,” said John Cowman, President of JLC Airshow Management.

However, Cowman stressed that even if the Navy team is absent, the show is packed with high-octane alternative entertainment. “But if they don’t fly, we still have a fantastic airshow. The Friday night drone show and fireworks are going to be amazing!”

Full Schedule of Alternative Entertainment

The Wings Over North Georgia airshow is prepared to deliver a comprehensive experience for attendees across the three-day event.

Friday night’s lineup includes the unique spectacle of America’s only AirShow Racing Series, where two sport class aircraft will race head-to-head for three laps through a tight 5,000-foot slalom course marked by ten 40-foot inflatable pylons. The evening will also feature a performance by the Kurt Thomas Band from 4:30–6 p.m., leading up to the opening ceremonies, drone show, and fireworks finale.

The weekend schedule includes other major attractions, such as the ground-shaking speed of the Bill Braack Smoke and Thunder Jet Car Show. History will also take to the skies with demo flights from classic military aircraft, including the iconic B-25 Panchito bomber and the P-51D Quick Silver aircraft.

“We’re excited to put on a great show for the whole family,” Cowman added. “And we’re excited to welcome everyone back.”

Attendees are advised to check the airshow’s official website and local media for the latest updates on the Blue Angels’ status as the situation in Washington evolves. Tickets and additional event information are available at WingsOverNorthGeorgia.com.