FAQs
What is the date for the 2012 Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show presented by McAlister's Deli and where is it located?
The McAlister’s Deli 2012 Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show will take place Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1, 2012 at the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport.
Who is putting on the 2012 Tuscaloosa Regional Air Show presented by McAlister's Deli?
The City of Tuscaloosa, Northport and Tuscaloosa County are responsible for putting on this premier community event.
What is the admission fee?
There is no admission or parking fee. There is a fee for reserved seating and Public/Corporate Chalets. Seats can be reserved in advance or purchased as available on the day of the show. Patrons are welcome to bring their own chairs/blankets. The earlier one arrives, the better the set-up spots.
May I purchase advance seating/tickets to the air show?
Yes, advance seating is available. You may purchase tickets by clicking on the “Tickets” link to the left. You may also visit the Box Office at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater and at the Publix grocery store located at 1190 University Boulevard in Tuscaloosa, AL beginning mid-January.
Where can I purchase seating?
Seating reservations will be available Monday, February 13, 2012 at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater Box Office or at the local Publix grocery store located at 1190 University Boulevard in Tuscaloosa, AL. The Tuscaloosa Amphitheater is located at 2710 Jack Warner Parkway, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 or may be reached by calling (205) 248-5280.
Are seating reservations for the entire weekend or for just one day?
Tickets may be purchased for each individual day or as a weekend package.
May I upgrade my ticket the day of the event?
The Public Chalets and Reserved Seating will offer any available seats for purchase the day of the event and you can upgrade if you have cash. We cannot take credit cards at the show, however there is an ATM on the grounds. Seating areas have sold out in the past and we recommend pre-registration to ensure seats are available and that your group can find seating together in bleachers or box seats.
What time does the show start and end?
Gates open at 9:00 a.m. both days and the show is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. The Blue Angels are the last performers during the day show and they go up around 3 p.m. The show is usually over around 4 p.m. The crews begin to break things down around 5 p.m. A detailed schedule will be posted as we approach the event.
Is it a different show each day?
The day show schedule is the same each day.
What happens if it rains?
If inclement weather happens, acts may decide to not perform for the day. However, there are still plenty of things to do and see throughout the event venue! There are no refunds and no rain dates for the event. Visit our website, Facebook page or Twitter for updates should inclement weather occur.
What will be the 311 Call Representatives schedule during the 2012 McAlister’s Deli Air Show?
At this time, the schedule has yet to be determined. Representatives will be available to assist you with any questions during the event weekend.
What is the temperature at the show?
The average temperature in late March/early April is 66 degrees but it can be windy on the tarmac. We suggest layers as the temperature in the morning can be cool enough for gloves, while the afternoon sun is warm enough to warrant sun screen. We ask that you use hats and sunscreen rather than umbrellas which obscure the view of people behind you.
Is there a handicap area?
There is a section cordoned off for wheelchairs only. If a family wants to purchase reserved seating and needs accommodations for a wheelchair, contact us for seating reservations at mcalistersdeliairshow@gmail.com or visit www.tuscaloosaregionalairshow.com
Will there be parking for handicap individuals?
We are happy to provide handicap parking to those who need this accommodation. There will be parking for handicapped individuals on site. Handicapped individuals will need to enter the Airport on Robert Cardinal Road to be directed to the handicapped parking area. Handicapped individuals will then be shuttled from the parking area to the handicapped seating area. Space on the shuttle will be limited to the handicapped person and ONE guest. Please be sure to have your handicap permit with you when you arrive at the show.
Is there a handicap shuttle service? And if there is, can individuals attending the show with this individual ride the shuttle? There will not be a handicap equipment shuttle service from any locations in the City to the Airport; however, there is on-site parking for handicapped individuals.
Where do I park?
There will be limited parking on site and near the Tuscaloosa Regional Airport. Due to this, the city has worked with local businesses and schools for use of their parking lots. You may park at those lots and buses will shuttle spectators to the event venue for free.
Please click on the "Parking" link to the left for detailed parking locations.
What time will the shuttle buses begin shuttling people to the air show grounds, and what time will it end?
The shuttle busses will begin shuttling air show attendees to the air show grounds at approximately 8 a.m. from the three shuttle bus pick-up locations. Shuttle busses will continue until the air show is over and the airport is cleared.
Are strollers or wheelchairs available for rent at the show?
Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted, however, they are not available for rent.
Are pets allowed on the airport grounds?
No, pets are not allowed other than service animals. The crowds and noise are not suitable for pets.
May I bring lawn chairs, blankets or coolers?
Chairs and blankets are permitted and recommended for general spectator seating. These items are subject to search. If you have purchased an upgraded chalet ticket or reserved seating, or have a Sponsor ticket, a variety of seating options will be provided in these areas and you will not need to bring your chairs. Coolers are not permitted.
Can we bring a pop up tent?
No, due to safety concerns, pop up tents are not permitted.
Are roller skates, skateboards, bikes, or personal golf carts permitted on the airport grounds?
No, none of these items are permitted due to security and safety restrictions. Handicap scooters and electric wheelchairs are allowed.
Can we bring food and beverages into the airshow?
Food and beverages are not allowed into the airshow. Also, NO COOLERS OF ANY KIND ARE PERMITTED. There will be a variety of food and beverage vendors who offer a full assortment of foods and drinks.
Do concession stands accept debit/credit cards?
Concession stands and vendors accept cash only, however, there will be ATMs on site.
What camping opportunities are available?
There are currently no camping opportunities available on site. However, if your group or school is bringing a bus to the event, parking will be available. Please contact mcalistersdeliairshow@gmail.com if you will need this accommodation.
Other than the air show, what other attractions will be at the show?
In addition to the air show, spectators can enjoy a collection of aircraft on display, virtual games and other attractions/displays at vending booths, food booths, souvenir booths, a kids fun-zone, and much more.
Are there Military Discounts?
No. The show is free and prices for seating and chalets help pay for the operation of the air show.
How do I get Press/Media Credentials?
Media credentials will only be extended to media on assignment. Media Credentials requests must be submitted in advance of air show dates on station / publication letterhead and an accreditation form must be completed. The form can be found online at www.tuscaloosaregionalairshow.com. These requests should be emailed to to: Kelsey Colglazier - kcolglazier@visittuscaloosa.com. Upon approval, press and media credentials may be picked up at the Tuscaloosa Department of Transportation (TDOT). TDOT is located at 1000 28th Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
What are chalets?
Corporate Chalets are exclusive rented areas on the flight line that include seating, tent, tables and private restrooms. These chalets can accommodate 150 individuals and catered food/beverages are available upon request. All catering must go through McAlister’s Deli, the official catering partner for the 2012 Air Show. Many corporations and groups buy chalet packages as a bonus for their patrons or workers, or to interact with VIPs and prospective clients. Chalet prices are $6,000/day or $10,000/weekend and 75 preferred parking passes are included.
Smaller businesses, groups and individuals can purchase individual public chalet tickets that gain them access to the Public Chalet area, which also provides a shaded area, chairs and restrooms for a special experience at the air show. The Public Chalet tickets are $50/ticket and include catering and a preferred parking pass.
I purchased a Corporate Chalet in the past and would like to purchase one for the 2012 air show, can I order this online?
At this time, we ask that you contact Kelsey Colglazier with the Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports Commission by calling 205-469-2184.
Is there shade?
General Admission ticket holders will be under an open sky. Patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly and bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. We do not encourage umbrellas as they block the view of other patrons and can poke other peoples eyes.
Are cameras allowed?
Yes. We want you to capture and share your air show memories. Your camera bags will be checked upon entry.
Can you direct me to a place to stay during the weekend?
Please visit the Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports Commission website for information on hotels. www.visittuscaloosa.com
Are there other attractions to see in the Tuscaloosa Area?
Tuscaloosa is a vibrant southern community rich with history! There are a number of museums and sites in the area. See www.visittuscaloosa.com for a list of the areas attractions and museums.
Are fly-ins welcome?
Performances for the air show begin at 10:30 a.m. both days. Fly-ins are welcome each day, however, fly-ins MUST BE on deck by 0955L CDT.
Didn’t find an answer? Contact us at mcalistersdeliairshow@gmail.com
