Niagara Falls, N.Y. (WBEN) - The 2026 Thunder of Niagara Air Show has been canceled, according to the 914th Air Refueling Wing, citing a lack of resources as a result of Central Command commitments.
In a statement, the 914th says:
"This was a decision we did not take lightly. We understand the impact this has on our partners, performers, volunteers, and the Western New York Community who have supported this event. After reviewing the situation and the resources available to us it became clear that we would not be able to produce an air show that meets the standard our community expects and dese rves.While we are disappointed with this option, we are already beginning active planning for a potential future return of the Thunder of Niagara Air Show. Thank you to our sponsors, partners, volunteers, and the entire community for your continued support. We look forward to bringing this incredible event back to Western New York in the future."
The event has been on hiatus since 2018.
John Percy, Destination Niagara USA president and CEO, called the decision disappointing and will have an impact on area hotels, destinations and restaurants.
"Air shows have a big appeal," Percy said. "Having something like this is always a big plus."
Percy said Destination Niagara had been heavily promoting the event - set for June 20 and 21 at the air base - but those promotions ended as of March 9.
The air show was one of several summer and fall special events being hyped by Destination Niagara.
"We pulled all our marketing from all of our social media channels," Percy said.