Behind the Scenes in the Rickenbacker Club
The Rickenbacker Club isn’t just a seating area – it’s the premier experience at the Columbus Air Show.
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to share the inspiration behind this space and why creating it became such an important part of bringing the show back to Columbus.
Where the Idea Began
To understand the Rickenbacker Club, we have to rewind to 2022, when planning for the 2023 Columbus Air Show kicked into high gear. As our team mapped out seating options, amenities, and layouts, one idea rose to the top immediately: we needed a space that made guests feel like true VIPs.
But not just any VIP space – it needed a name and identity that honored Columbus’ aviation heritage. And there was one aviator whose legacy stood above the rest: WWI flying ace Eddie Rickenbacker, the hometown hero for whom the airport is named.
Honoring a Columbus Legend
For anyone unfamiliar with Eddie Rickenbacker’s story, he was born and raised right here in Columbus. He served from 1917–1919 in WWI and returned home with 26 confirmed aerial victories, earning the title “Ace of Aces.” His legacy is woven into the fabric of this city – making him the perfect inspiration for our most exclusive seating area.
Once the name was set, the vision began to take shape.
Designing a VIP Experience
From the start, we knew the Rickenbacker Club needed to deliver an experience guests couldn’t get anywhere else. That meant placing it right along the flight line, offering unmatched views of performers as they taxi, take off, and land – moments most people never get to see up close.
We also knew the space needed a large tent for shade and comfort, paired with umbrella‑covered tables right out front. With the layout locked in, we turned our attention to the details – the touches that transform a seating area into an experience.
The Details That Make It Special
Patriotic floral arrangements from a local florist
Comfortable furniture under the tent for relaxing between acts
Delicious catered food from a local caterer
A full drink selection including beer, wine, seltzers, soda, and water
Custom Columbus Air Show tumblers handed out to guests
A photo banner featuring the headliner for memorable snapshots
A red‑carpet entrance complete with stanchions and floral décor
Each detail was chosen to elevate the experience – to make guests feel welcomed, appreciated, and immersed in the excitement of the show.
A Club Guests Return to Year After Year
All of these elements came together to create the Rickenbacker Club, a space that has quickly become a beloved tradition for many of our guests. It’s more than a seating area – it’s a celebration of Columbus’ aviation heritage, a tribute to Eddie Rickenbacker, and a VIP experience designed with care from the ground up.
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