Blue Angels Have Arrived for Fleet Week
The six jets returned to the Bay Area on Sunday after missing last year's event.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Military
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The U.S. Navy Blue Angels landed in the East Bay this Sunday after flying in from Colorado. Their arrival marks a return to San Francisco Fleet Week following an absence last year.
Why it matters
The team missed last year's festivities due to a federal government shutdown, leaving a void in the annual air show. Residents and visitors alike now look toward the upcoming weekend performances.
The U.S. Navy deployed 6 jets for the return to San Francisco Fleet Week versus the zero that attended last year. The status of air traffic control patterns during the weekend performances is still under investigation.
The players
U.S. Navy Blue Angels
The flight demonstration squadron of the U.S. Navy returning to perform for San Francisco residents.
The details
The squadron touched down at an East Bay hangar on Sunday evening to prepare for the citywide celebration. Local shops and eateries are adjusting staffing levels in anticipation of the crowds expected for the air show. Fans can catch the performance Friday, Saturday, or Sunday afternoon.
Timeline
October 4, 2026: The six jets landed in the East Bay.
October 9-11, 2026: The Blue Angels will perform afternoon air shows.
Across the Bay
This year's attendance marks a reversal of the pattern set by the 2025 government shutdown, which forced the squadron to cancel its local appearance. The return follows a standard operational recovery after federal budgetary interruptions.
Expect heavier crowds near Marina Green and the waterfront throughout the upcoming weekend. Local businesses are bracing for increased customer traffic, so plan for longer wait times at neighborhood shops.
The takeaway
San Franciscans can watch the air show performances this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoon from prime vantage points like Marina Green. Check local transit schedules early, as the waterfront will see peak crowds throughout the weekend.
Further reading
For more coverage of local events, see San Francisco Military.
Live Poll
Do you feel that large-scale local events like Fleet Week are worth the increased traffic congestion?
