Planning is now underway for the 2011 Atlantic International Air Show, to be held Aug. 20-21 in Summerside.
Originally known as the Shearwater International Air Show, the event dates back to 1948. In 1997, the Nova Scotia International Air Show Association assumed control over the activities, as a not-for-profit society, and renamed the event.
In recent years, organizers have made the decision to rotate the air show throughout the Maritime provinces. Shows have been hosted in Moncton and Yarmouth and now the group is poised to bring the popular showcase to Prince Edward Island.
P.E.I. Sen. Mike Duffy, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning Allan Campbell and Summerside Mayor Basil Stewart joined Colin Stephenson and Tony Goode with the Nova Scotia International Air Show Association for the announcement today.
“Atlantic Canada is home to over 200 innovative aerospace and defence companies employing over 10,000 skilled and specialized workers,” said Duffy. “The Atlantic International Air Show represents a great opportunity to showcase the strengths of our national and regional aerospace industry as well as serving as a wonderful tourism draw for the province.”
The air show will feature a range of modern performance aircraft, both military and civilian, and will thrill fans with displays on the ground and in the air, say organizers.
The large air displays will include the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Skyhawks, and CF-18 Hornet. Canada’s Aurora, Hercules, Griffon and Sea King will also be featured.
ACOA is supporting the air show with $35,000 through its business development program. The Government of Prince Edward Island will contribute $35,000 through Innovation P.E.I., and Summerside will contribute $10,000 towards the 2011 event.
"As our event moves around to new communities in the Maritimes we are promoting aviation and displaying the professionalism, dedication and skill of the Canadian Forces and all of our performers; creating new fans who will travel to our subsequent venues makes for great economic impact within the host province," said Stephenson. "We anticipate filling your hotels, restaurants and other businesses for an exciting week next August."
The 2010 Air Show is being held at the 12 Wing Shearwater Airport in Halifax.
