MichaelFitzsimmons / Depositphotos.com
Airshow London is getting ready to fill the skies over London International Airport with fighter jets, historic warbirds and military aircraft from across North America.
The annual event runs August 21 to 23, offering three days of flying demonstrations along with dozens of aircraft on display on the ground.
Holly Doty, executive director of Airshow London, says the setup gives spectators an up-close experience, with all seating and drive-in areas located airside.
The drive-in format gives visitors their own roughly 20-by-20-foot space where they can set up chairs and spend the day. Spectators can also explore food trucks, beer gardens, vendors and static aircraft displays, with many planes open for visitors to walk through and meet the crews.
Director of Flight Operations Gerry Vanderhoek says the show is also about getting the next generation interested in aviation.
Among this year’s highlights is the return of the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor demonstration. Vanderhoek says Airshow London has been fortunate to land one of the industry’s most sought-after performances several times in recent years.
The lineup also includes a Canadian Forces CF-18 Hornet, an air-to-air refuelling demonstration, a search-and-rescue demonstration and historic aircraft including a P-38 Lightning, Spitfire and Hurricane. A B-52 bomber will also be among the aircraft on the ground.
Friday night will add another twist, with an aerobatic performance featuring pyrotechnics and other special displays.
Spectators are welcome to bring their own coolers, food and beverages, making it an affordable, family-friendly event. Doty adds that organizers have also made an effort to make this year’s event more accessible.
Now in its 11th year in its current form, Airshow London attracts visitors from across Ontario, the United States and overseas. Organizers say tickets are nearly sold out ahead of this weekend’s show.
Written by Jeremy Hall
