How to Get a Press Pass for Reno Air Races

With biplane and jet races, performances by the world's most elite military aircraft, and aerial aerobatics, it's no wonder the annual National Championship Air Races in Reno, Nev., attracts attention. The race's fastest aircraft can reach speeds in excess of 500 miles per hour, prompting the racing community to deem the competition the "World's Fastest Motorsport." While the public pays entrance fees for this show, members of the press can gain entry to the Reno Air Races by applying to the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA).

Things You'll Need

  • Letter of assignment
  • Copy of active media credentials
  • Copy of media coverage of Reno air races or media proposal
  • Website traffic report, if applicable
  • Identification with photograph
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Instructions

    • 1
      A vintage military aircraft is shown on display in Reno.

      Visit the National Championship Air Races and Air Show website (see first Resource). Click on "For Media" at the top of the page. Then click on "Credentials Request" at the top of the next page.

    • 2
      Aircraft are shown on a runway in Reno, Nev.

      Read the qualifications for a credentials request. Note the requirements for press members and the deadline for application submission. Be prepared to submit your prior coverage or coverage plan to RARA. Click on "Request credentials" at the bottom of the page to go to the application for media credentials.

    • 3
      Watch an airplane invert at an air show.

      Read the Press Regulation Form and Release of Liability. Click on the check box to accept the terms of the form. Fill in all required information on the Media Credentials Request page, such as your name, your contact information and details about the media outlet you represent. Click on "Continue" at the bottom of the page when your information is complete.

    • 4
      A vintage aircraft is showcased in Reno, Nevada.

      Review your application on the next page. If everything is correct, choose "Send Application." Choose "Make Changes" if your application requires corrections.

    • 5

      Make a record of your application number after you submit it. Reference this number if you follow up with RARA about your application. RARA will contact applications via email to notify approval or denial of their application.

    • 6

      Provide RARA with the required documentation stating your credentials as a media member. These documents include a letter of assignment, a copy of current media credentials, a copy of prior media coverage or media proposal, a website traffic report (if applicable) and identification with a photograph such as driver's license or passport, according to the NCARAS website. Send the documents to RARA at its address listed on the website.

    • 7

      Check in at the media check-in trailer on the days of the Reno Air Races. Find details about the trailer's location, check-in times, media facilities and the air show's schedule on the General Media Info page on the NCARAS website (see second Resource). Sign a printed version of the Press Regulation Form and Release of Liability upon check-in. Representatives from RARA will then issue your media credentials.