Texas Tech to Host Military Flyover on Saturday
National Guard crews are scheduled to perform a helicopter flyover during the Texas Tech Homecoming game this weekend.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Military
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Texas Tech University will feature a military aircraft flyover at Galaxy Stadium during its homecoming game against Arizona State on Saturday. The flyover event is expected to reach 60,000 fans in attendance.
Why it matters
The event commemorates Homecoming week for the university while honoring local military service. Four Texas Tech alumni serving in the Texas Army National Guard are participating in the ceremonial flight.
The flyover will feature four total aircraft, including two Chinook helicopters and two Blackhawk helicopters provided by the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade. This exhibition follows a morning patient visit to UMC Children's Hospital.
The players
Texas Army National Guard
This military organization is providing the helicopters for the homecoming event.
UMC Children's Hospital
This medical facility in Lubbock is hosting the flight crew for a community visit.
Texas Tech University
This higher education institution is celebrating its homecoming week with the football game.
The details
The flight crew will conduct a demonstration over UMC Children's Hospital on Saturday morning before heading to the stadium. In addition to the flyover, the four Texas Tech alumni crew members will visit patients at the hospital to distribute rally towels.
Timeline
Friday, Oct. 16, 2:30 PM: Flyover practice and hospital flyover.
Saturday, Oct. 17, morning: Flight crew visits UMC Children's Hospital.
Saturday, Oct. 17, 2:30 PM: Kickoff at Galaxy Stadium.
Political Context
The flyover follows a pattern set by the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade operational support deployments in similar regional public events. Critics of such displays often cite concerns regarding the cost of military equipment usage and potential distractions from academic or athletic focus.
Residents and attendees should expect increased helicopter activity over the stadium and UMC Children's Hospital throughout the weekend. The event will not result in changes to tax brackets or regulatory policy for local citizens.
The takeaway
Communities often utilize regional military partnerships to enhance public university traditions and homecoming celebrations. Residents in the area should prepare for noise and flight activity during the scheduled practice and game times.
Further reading
Learn more about local military activities and events in the Military section.
More information
Find additional game day logistical details on the Texas Tech Gameday Guide.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fox34.
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