Gulf Coast Salute Air Show Debuts STEM Zone for Kids

New interactive exhibits aim to spark interest in science, tech, engineering, and math.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:52am

An abstract painting in soft blues, greens, and grays featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circular forms, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex forces and structures underlying aviation technology.The new STEM Zone at the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show aims to spark young attendees' interest in the science and technology powering modern aviation.Panama City Beach Today

The annual Gulf Coast Salute Air Show in Panama City Beach, Florida is introducing a special STEM Zone area this year, providing interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. The STEM Zone is part of a growing trend at air shows to engage young attendees with educational content related to the aviation industry.

Why it matters

Inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists is crucial for the future of the STEM fields. By creating a dedicated STEM-focused area at the air show, organizers hope to spark curiosity and get kids excited about pursuing STEM-related careers, especially those connected to the aviation industry.

The details

The STEM Zone at the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show will feature a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including flight simulators, robotics demonstrations, and experiments with aerodynamics and physics. Visitors will be able to learn about the science behind aircraft design, aviation technology, and the math and engineering principles that power flight.

  • The Gulf Coast Salute Air Show is an annual event held in Panama City Beach, Florida.
  • This year's air show is scheduled for April 26-27, 2026.

The players

Gulf Coast Salute Air Show

An annual air show event held in Panama City Beach, Florida that features aerial demonstrations, static aircraft displays, and other aviation-themed activities.

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What’s next

Organizers are encouraging local schools and youth organizations to plan field trips to the air show's STEM Zone during the event weekend.

The takeaway

The addition of a dedicated STEM Zone at the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show reflects a growing trend in the aviation industry to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists through hands-on, educational experiences at major air show events.