F-22 Raptors Return to Roar Over Cocoa Beach for Spectacular Weekend Air Show
If you’ve ever stood still on the beach, eyes skyward and heart pounding as a jet rips across the horizon, then you already know — there's nothing quite like an air show. And this weekend, Cocoa Beach is the place to be as the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team headlines the highly anticipated Cocoa Beach Air Show. It’s not just another performance — it’s a celebration of both aerial excellence and the city’s 100th birthday, blending patriotism with power in the skies over Florida’s Space Coast.
On Thursday afternoon, a quiet rumble turned into a dramatic show of force as two stealthy F-22 Raptors flew into town, slicing through the humid Florida sky before landing at Patrick Space Force Base. These high-tech jets are among the most advanced aircraft on the planet, capable of hovering midair, flipping direction, and flying backwards — maneuvers few planes, and fewer pilots, can pull off. According to Capt. Nick “Laz” Le Tourneau, who leads the 14-member demo team, the mission is to inspire and awe, showcasing the unmatched agility and dominance of the Raptor.
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Set along the golden sands between Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier and Minutemen Causeway, the air show promises edge-of-your-seat moments. Centered at Lori Wilson Park, the event offers prime viewing areas and ticketed VIP spots, though beachside access remains free. And for many, it’s more than entertainment — it’s a connection to legacy. One of the show’s participants, Capt. Joey “Bodhi” Stukey, a Cocoa Beach native and Satellite High School grad, returns home not only as a pilot, but as part of the team he once admired from the crowd.
The schedule is packed with aerial talent: EA-18 Growlers, C-17 Globemaster and KC-135 Stratotanker demos, combat search-and-rescue teams, the RE/MAX Parachute Team, and a nostalgic U.S. Air Force heritage flight. It’s a powerful blend of noise, history, and honor — each pass across the sky a reminder of the skill and dedication behind the uniform.
With heat index values expected to push above 100 degrees, officials are urging spectators to stay cool: bring water, wear sunscreen, and plan ahead. Shade, hydration, and ear protection (especially for young children) will make the difference between a good day and a great one. For those who want to avoid the beach crowds, the air show can also be seen from boats just offshore, along a specially designated Coast Guard safety zone.
From roaring jet engines to parachutes unfolding midair, the Cocoa Beach Air Show isn’t just about planes — it’s about community, memory, and inspiration. Whether you're a longtime fan of air shows or experiencing your first one, this weekend promises a stirring tribute to flight, freedom, and Florida’s own Space Coast spirit.
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