History of the Good
Neighbor Day Airshow

Airshows at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport trace their origins back to 1948, when on June 27, the Blue Angels performed at what was then NAS Atlanta. Over the years, the airport hosted various events and fly-ins, but it was former airport director Doc Manget who envisioned a regular airshow and open house to engage local residents and showcase the airport’s activities.

For more than four decades, the Good Neighbor Day Airshow and Open House at DeKalb–Peachtree Airport (PDK) has served as a vital connection between the airport and the surrounding community. Now entering a new phase of growth, the event is evolving into a two-day aviation celebration, featuring expanded aerial demonstrations and a new STEM Expo. These enhancements aim to further aviation education, support economic development, and inspire the next generation of aviators.

Founded in 1928, Peachtree DeKalb Airport has grown from a modest regional airfield into one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States. Strategically located in DeKalb County, PDK has long served as a gateway for business, emergency response, military operations, and private aviation.

Throughout its history, PDK has played a critical role in:

  • Supporting regional economic development
  • Providing emergency and medical flight services
  • Serving military, corporate, and private aviation needs
  • Advancing aviation safety and innovation

Today, PDK operates as a key economic engine for DeKalb County, generating thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to the local economy—while remaining deeply focused on safety, sustainability, and community stewardship.

The airport’s continued success is built on a foundation of responsible management, modernization, and partnership with surrounding neighborhoods, ensuring that growth aligns with quality of life.

A Legacy of Service

Peachtree DeKalb Airport has a rich aviation history dating back to World War II, when it served as a Naval Air Station. Over the decades, PDK has evolved into one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States while maintaining a strong commitment to its surrounding communities.

The Birth of Good Neighbor Day

The Good Neighbor Day Airshow was established as a community outreach initiative to foster transparency, trust, and engagement. What began as a small open-house style event has grown into one of DeKalb County’s most anticipated annual aviation celebrations.

Looking Ahead

Today, Good Neighbor Day continues to honor aviation history while inspiring future generations through education, innovation, and community connection.

A Tradition Rooted in Community

The Good Neighbor Day Airshow was created to strengthen the relationship between the surrounding communities and Peachtree DeKalb Airpo« t DK). As one of the busiest geeral aviation airports in the United States, PDK has long recognized the importance of being a good neighbor—not just an aviation hub.

The airshow was established as a way to open the airport to the puDlic,
offering transparency, education, and celebration through aviation.

From Airport to Community Landmark

OriginaJ|y leunched as a community outreach initiative. Gooa NeighDor Day motred into a signature annual event that highlights.

  • Aviation history
  • Military and civilian aircraft
  • Aerobatic performances
  • Static aircraft displays
  • Educational exhiDits for famJies ana youth

Honoring Aviation Heritage

PDK’s roots trace back to Worlcl War |I, when the airport served as a Naval Air Station. That legacy of service, innovation, and national o- dense remains a care part of the airshow’s mission.

Each year. historic aircraft and modern aviation technology come together to teJl the story of 1′!ight, from early propeller-driven aircraft to today’s advanced aviation capabilities.

A Day for Everyone

Good Neighbor Day is intentionally designed to be inclusive and tant[y ffienally. The event provides.

  • Hanols on learning
  • S -DK enstiration for young minds
  • Upalose aircrairt experiences
  • A deeper-understanding of PDK’s role locally and nationally

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