Look up in the sky. Is it a bird? Nope. Is it a plane? Actually, yes…several airplanes that are supporting Independence Day observances. Warriors of the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard will fly their super-cool F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft above Colorado community celebrations on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to about 12 p.m.
(Photo by Jack O’Conner) Used with permission
The 140th Wing will launch the jets from Buckley Space Force Base at around 10:30 a.m.
The formation of fighters will fly over select Colorado communities until approximately 12 p.m. when they will return to base.
This is the list of events expecting the flyovers. Timing may change a bit, but you should hear them coming!
Aurora – 10:30 a.m. (departing Buckley Space Force Base)
Castle Rock — 10:47 a.m.
Columbine Valley — 10:52 a.m.
Westminster — 10:55 a.m.
Firestone — 10:58 a.m.
Loveland — 11:01 a.m.
Grand Lake — 11:10 a.m.
Granby — 11:14 a.m.
Vail — 11:20 a.m.
Crested Butte — 11:27 a.m.
Ouray — 11:36 a.m. (this is a maybe due to fire conditions)
Silverton — 11:42 a.m.
Lake City — 11:45 a.m.
Aurora – 12 p.m. (returning Buckley Space Force Base)
The aircraft may also be seen between these locations as they transition between Independence Day celebrations. Flyover times are estimates and could also be cancelled due to weather.
These aerial demonstrations offer a powerful tribute to our country’s heritage while showcasing the ongoing connection between Colorado’s Citizen-Airmen and the communities they serve.
“Our Independence Day flyovers are a spectacular opportunity to celebrate the enduring spirit, unity, and liberty of our nation,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Benjamin “Scrappy” Couchman, 140th Wing commander.
“It is a deeply personal privilege for our pilots to connect with our neighbors across Colorado. As we look up together, we honor the freedom we enjoy today and recognize the shared dedication required to protect it.”
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