RAYONG — 10 January 2026, U-Tapao Airport, under the Royal Thai Navy, has completed preparations to host Thailand’s National Children’s Day, with the Royal Thai Air Force set to deploy F-16 fighter jets for aerial displays.
The event will take place at the Naval Aviation Museum of the Fleet Operations Command in Phala subdistrict, Ban Chang district, Rayong province. Navy officials expect large crowds of families attending the annual celebration on Saturday.
This year’s Children’s Day is held under the slogan set by Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul: “Love the Thai nation, care for the world.” The theme aims to encourage Thai children and young people to grow into responsible citizens who are proud of their country while remaining conscious of their responsibilities to the environment, society and the global community.
Military hardware, including armoured vehicles, artillery and anti-aircraft guns, has been moved into the venue for public display. A range of naval aircraft that previously served missions will also be showcased, including A-7E Corsair II jets, Harrier AV-8S aircraft, S-3E aircraft, a C-47 Dakota produced toward the end of World War II, Bell 212 helicopters and P-3T Orion patrol aircraft. All aircraft remain in near-pristine external condition, offering children an opportunity to learn about naval history and aviation development.
The event will also feature numerous free activities and prizes, such as balloon darts, ring toss games, air-powered target shooting, inflatable playgrounds, miniature train rides, rocking horses and doll painting. A series of performances is scheduled, including paramotor flights, naval aircraft demonstrations, light aircraft displays and fancy drill performances combining weapon handling with music.
A key highlight will be flight demonstrations by Royal Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets, scheduled twice daily, in the morning and afternoon.
Security measures have been put in place, with organisers requesting that attendees carry national identification cards or government-issued identification to present to officials when entering the airport area.
