SUMMERSIDE
One would need to travel to Ontario, Maine or Massachusetts to find an airshow comparable to what’s coming to Summerside August 25 and 26 says Colin Stephenson, executive director for Air Show Atlantic.
“That’s why we draw people from all over the Maritimes,” he said. This year marks the air show’s fourth visit to Summerside in eight years, and its first since 2015.
“We know the community and the community is getting to know us,” Stephenson commented. Renovations to the Summerside airstrip, he said, means some of the jets that previously had to take off and land in Charlottetown when participating in the Summerside show can now land in Summerside, thus adding that dimension to this year’s attraction.
There are only about a half-dozen air shows in Canada comparable to Air Show Atlantic, said Stephenson. “We’re it for the region.”
The Atlantic Canada International Air Show, Air Show Atlantic, is presented by Standard Aero. The show is also supported by numerous other sponsors and about 200 volunteers.
The airshow itself lasts about three hours each day, but Stephenson said the public can make a full day of it as the gates are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday with visits to the air strip and tours of aircraft and other static displays to take in. There will be a veterans appreciation museum, including history on the former military base, CFB Summerside, on display.
“There’s something for everyone,” Stephenson reflected.
Aircraft confirmed for the Summerside shows include the Canadian Forces Hornet demo team, the legendary CF Snowbirds, the DeHaviland Vampire jet and solo aerobatic performances by Brent Hardy Aerobatics and Gary Ward Airshows. There will be a World War One biplane performance and Royal Canadian Air Force Hercules, Griffin and Aurora Aircraft. The Canadian Army’s Skyhawks parachute team will also give performances.
Admission to the show is free to children under 12 years of age as long as they are accompanied by a ticket-holder 18 years of age or older.
