From old favorites to recent blockbusters, the lineup of films at this year’s Fly-In Theater, presented by Ford Motor Company, will take visitors on a diverse journey through aviation history. Every night beginning Saturday, July 24, through Saturday, July 31, moviegoers can bring lawn chairs and blankets to the Fly-In Theater and enjoy programming projected on a five-story screen. And the popcorn’s free, too!
Located adjacent to Camp Scholler, the Fly-In Theater is reminiscent of the drive-in theaters of the past. Each evening the show begins at approximately 8:30 p.m. The featured screenings are preceded by an entertaining and informative introduction featuring a mix of aviation notables, filmmakers, historians, and others who can provide insight and context to each film.
This year’s film lineup includes:
Saturday, July 24 – Top Gun
The 2021 Fly-In Theater season kicks off with the 1986 neo-classic starring a bunch of F-14s, some F-5s dressed as MiG-28s, and Tom Cruise.
Sunday, July 25 – Artistry in the Air: The Story of the Younkin Family, Flying Boat, and Red Horizon
This triple feature of aviation documentaries looks at one of the air show world’s most prominent families, shares the passion of those who restore and fly the Grumman Albatross, and introduces a group of young pilots who honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Monday, July 26 – Tora! Tora! Tora!
One of the most spectacular aviation movies ever made, this 1970 film spurred the creation of an aerial armada of replica Japanese aircraft that still fly in air shows today.
Tuesday, July 27 – 30 Seconds Over Tokyo
This acclaimed 1944 motion picture brings the heroic Doolittle Raid to life.
Wednesday, July 28 – Planes
Presented without introduction, Disney’s animated film tells the story of Dusty Crophopper, a crop duster who dreams of air racing.
Thursday, July 29 – Return to the Big Skies: The Story of Miss Montana to Normandy, and Into Flight Once More
These two films explore the efforts to fly a group of restored C-47s over Normandy in honor of the 75th anniversary of D-Day.
Friday, July 30 – Midway (2019)
This recent blockbuster gives the pivotal WWII Pacific Theater battle the big-budget treatment.
Saturday, July 31 – Up
Presented without introduction, Pixar’s Up is an inspiring reminder for those of any age that adventure is out there.
Admission to all movies at the Fly-In Theater is included with your AirVenture wristband.
