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New airshow director previews lineup, stresses safety for Sept. 25–27 Salinas event

Port Commission (Smith Municipal Airport / Salinas) · July 24, 2026
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Summary

Christine Ware, named executive director of the California International Airshow, previewed performers including the Air Force Thunderbirds and emphasized safety plans and coordination with airport staff for the Sept. 25–27 event in Salinas.

Christine Ware, the new executive director of the California International Airshow, told commissioners she is focused on both honoring the show's legacy and expanding visibility beyond the Salinas Valley.

"We're going off 45 years," Ware said, and announced that the Air Force Thunderbirds will headline the Sept. 25–27 event. She listed civilian performers and community activities, and said the show expects roughly 35,000–40,000 attendees. Ware emphasized safety and coordination with air operations and volunteer ground teams as top priorities.

Commissioners asked about past incidents and crowd-line changes; Ware and airport staff said there were no known flying incidents requiring major operational changes, and that staff will add signage and procedural steps for better ground navigation when needed.