There are certain traditions in Colorado Springs that immediately signal Air Force Academy graduation week has arrived.
The increased traffic along Interstate 25.
The congratulatory signs throughout town.
The excitement across the city.
And of course, the unmistakable roar of the Thunderbirds overhead.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds officially arrived in Colorado Springs this week ahead of the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2026 graduation ceremony. United States Air Force Thunderbirds United States Air Force Academy
For many longtime Colorado Springs residents, this annual tradition is one of the most anticipated events of the year. The Thunderbirds’ flyover during graduation is timed precisely with one of the ceremony’s most iconic moments: the ceremonial hat toss inside Falcon Stadium.
That moment marks the official transition from cadet to second lieutenant.
Before Thursday’s ceremony, the Thunderbirds conducted site surveys over Colorado Springs and the Academy grounds, identifying landmarks and practicing the exact timing necessary for the graduation flyover. Additional rehearsals and air show practices are taking place throughout the week.
According to Maj. Brandon Maxson, a 2014 Air Force Academy graduate and current Thunderbird pilot, the graduation performance carries special significance for many members of the team because they once watched the Thunderbirds perform while they were cadets themselves.
Colorado Springs and Graduation Week
Graduation week at the Air Force Academy always brings a unique energy to Colorado Springs.
Families from across the country arrive to celebrate graduates. Local businesses welcome visitors throughout the city. Restaurants, hotels, and attractions become busier, especially on the north side of town near the Academy.
The Air Force Academy continues to be one of the defining institutions in Colorado Springs and plays a major role in the culture and identity of the community.
The Thunderbirds’ arrival has become part of that tradition.
Inspiration Through Aviation
One quote from Maj. Maxson stood out:
“Our mission is to recruit, retain, and inspire.”
For many children, students, and visitors watching the Thunderbirds perform this week, the demonstration represents far more than an air show. It often sparks dreams of aviation, military service, engineering, leadership, and aerospace careers.
Colorado Springs continues to be a city where innovation, service, and aviation remain deeply connected.
Weather Could Impact Performances
Event coordinators will be closely monitoring weather conditions leading up to Thursday’s ceremony.
Current forecasts call for mostly cloudy skies with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Last year’s Thunderbirds flyover and demonstration were canceled due to weather and low visibility, so many are hoping for better conditions this year.
If weather permits, the Thunderbirds are expected to perform both the graduation flyover and a post-graduation demonstration for graduates and their families.
Congratulations to the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2026 and welcome back to Colorado Springs, Thunderbirds.
Photos shared are from two years ago. Photo credit: Eric Strom.
Original reporting by The Gazette.
