THE SUPER GUPPY IS COMING TO SNF!

Get ready—one of the most unique aircraft in the world is flying into Lakeland and will be on static display all week!The Aero Spacelines Super Guppy is headed to SUN ‘n FUN 2026, and it’s unlike anything else on the field. With its massive, bulbous fuselage and swing-open nose, this aircraft was built to carry cargo that simply won’t fit in a normal airplane.

Originally designed to transport rocket components for NASA’s Apollo missions, the Super Guppy still plays a critical role today—moving oversized spacecraft parts, massive structures, and even aircraft components across the country.

And yes… it’s so big, it can carry jet parts—and even small aircraft—inside its enormous cargo bay.

ANOTHER SPECIAL ARRIVAL JOINS THE MISSION: NASA'S T-38

NASA’s Northrop T-38 Talon will arrive Wednesday as part of the week’s activities!

The aircraft will remain on static display Wednesday through Saturday, giving guests a rare up-close look at the jet NASA uses to train astronauts and support mission readiness—before departing on Sunday.

🛠 GO BEHIND THE SCENES

Tuesday at 10:00 AM at the Hangar

Flying the Super Guppy

David Elliott, Super Guppy Program Manager & Lead Flight Engineer

Ever wondered what it’s like to fly—and load—something this big? Don’t miss this inside look at operating one of the most unusual aircraft ever built.

🌙 A CAN'T MISS MOMENT!

NASA ADMINISTRATOR TO SPEAK AT SUN 'N FUN

Wednesday at 12:00 PM at the Hangar

To The Moon

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman will be on site to share plans for returning humans to the Moon through the Artemis Program.

This is a rare chance to hear directly from NASA leadership about what’s next—and how today’s work is shaping the future of space exploration.

MORE ABOUT NASA

✈️WHY NASA FLIES WHAT IT FLIES

Thursday at 10:00 AM at the Hangr

Aldora Louw – Associate Division Chief, Aircraft Operations, NASA

Aldora Louw leads NASA’s flight operations and will break down Astronaut, Space Flight Readiness Training.

🎬 From Cockpit to the Big Screen

Friday at 5:30 PM at the Hangar

Sean “Shady” Brady, NASA Research Pilot

NASA research pilot Sean Brady will give a firsthand look at flying NASA’s aircraft—sharing real stories from the cockpit.

Then stick around that evening for a special showing of The Right Stuff—the perfect follow-up to a day of real-world flight stories.

CHECK OUT MORE PROGRAMMING FROM THE HANGAR

THE HANGAR SPONSORED BY:

AIR LEGENDS FOUNDATION BRINGS US A COUPLE ICONS!

Air Legends Foundation are bringing the Lockheed Constellation & Grumman Mallard! Step back in time and experience aviation history in motion as the iconic Lockheed Constellation and the legendary Grumman Mallard take to the skies at the 2026 SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo! From the Connie’s unmistakable triple-tail silhouette to the Mallard’s classic amphibious design, these rare aircraft are a must-see for any aviation fan.

Don’t miss their featured airshow performances—check the full schedule and plan your moment. and plan you

ACCESS THE AIRSHOW SCHEDULE

DAILY AIRSHOW SPONSORED BY

TUNE INTO COUNTDOWN TO SUN 'N FUN!

Countdown to SUN 'n FUN is back this Tuesday with new guests and new info about the upcoming SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo, April 14-19, 2026! Tune in LIVE on youtube! WIN PRIZES!

TUNE IN LIVE - TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2026 @ 2 PM

HIGH-FLYING FLAVOR ACROSS THE CAMPUS

Come hungry—SUN ’n FUN 2026 is bringing the flavor with an all-star lineup of food across the entire campus! Whether you’re craving juicy burgers, BBQ, tacos, pizza, or something a little different like ramen, you’ll find plenty of options to keep you fueled all day long. And don’t forget to treat yourself with donuts, ice cream, and more along the way.

Food options are conveniently organized by area, so you’re never far from your next great bite—whether you’re grabbing something quick between airshow acts or taking a break to recharge.

And new for 2026… The Swamp! This exciting new area brings bold flavors and a fresh vibe, featuring local restaurant partners serving up some of the best eats from right here in our community.

Plus, you’ll find Chick-fil-A in the Future ‘n Flight Plaza, open daily (except Sunday) to keep you fueled throughout the week.

CHECK OUT A FULL LIST OF FOOD OPTIONS BY AREA

WE HAVE NEW FRIENDS AT THE ISLAND!

COME THIRSTY!

BIG FUN FOR LITTLE FLYERS!

KIDS 12 & UNDER ARE FREE!

Come be a Junior ACE and explore (hands-on) the world of Aviation and STEM!

Science on a Sphere

Hear spellbinding adventures from military pilots and explore interactive data sets from NOAA and NASA about weather, life on Earth, and outer space.

Engineering Lab

Build a pitot tube in this hands-on avionics workshop sponsored by DATC and conduct a wind experiment while learning about aerospace design, air pressure, and how airspeed is calculated.

Florida Air Museum

Step into aviation history with exhibits featuring the Wright Flyer along with NOAA and NASA displays. Scavenger hunt sheets are available at the entrance to help visitors explore important milestones in aviation.

The Hangar

Catch educational talks and presentations throughout the week, including guest speakers from NASA and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

The Jerry Holland Destination Aviation Playground

Let kids burn off energy at this aviation-themed playground featuring swings, a tower play structure, slides, interactive aviation games, shaded areas, and plenty of benches for parents to relax. Located next to the Florida Air Museum.

Pilot Pals Play Zone

Located in Future ’n Flight Plaza, this aviation-themed play area operated by Lakeland Moonwalk features bounce houses and inflatables where young aviators can jump and climb. PLAY ALL Day for $25. ALL WEEK PASS $100.

Junior ACEs Tent

Polk County Astronomy Club – View the sun through a solar telescope and learn about the phases of the moon and the planets.
Crew Concepts – Discover the fascinating world of drones and unmanned flight.
Polk County Mosquito Control – Learn about the mosquito life cycle and how aviation helps keep communities healthy.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - investigate robotics, drones and sims.
SETP - (The Society of Experimental Test Pilots) STEM Activities.
Helo Girls – Meet authors who share aviation career adventures and enjoy aviation crafts and flying toys.
Miso & Killis Treasure Shop, inspirational adventures of a co-pilot and navigator.
Engineer your own Radio.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – Try the Design an Airport Challenge on a Minecraft-style computer game.
MOSI – The Museum of Science and Industry brings engaging STEM activities.

Warbird Ramp

See historic military aircraft up close and hear pilots share their stories during daily Victory Theater presentations.

Bushwheel Basecamp

STOL Headquarters - Discover short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft and meet pilots while kids collect stickers and coloring books.

Performer Experience

Make your way to the Warbird Ramp for the Performer Experience daily from 10 AM - 1 PM and meet your favorite Airshow Performers!

PARENTS - NEED A BREAK? STOP BY THE FAMILY OASIS TENT

The Family Oasis is designed for families with young children– a place to escape the heat and regroup.

Families will find refreshing amenities such as comfort stations, nursing areas, crafts, picnic tables, and air conditioning. Admission is included with your daily ticket!

HOURS:

Tuesday, April 14 - Sunday, April 19 - 9 AM – 5 PM

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT

DeltaHawk Engines has developed FAA-Certified jet-fueled piston engines, with higher power models in development. DeltaHawk Engines is committed to developing high-performance, fuel-efficient, and reliable engines in general aviation that has set new standards for efficiency, simplicity, and affordability.

VISIT THEM AT NE-016, NE-017, NE-024, NE-025

LEARN MORE HERE!