Airshow association ceasing operations
By Lethbridge Herald on August 8, 2024.
The Third Strike Wingwalking team performs during last yearÕs Lethbridge International Airshow. The Lethbridge International Airshow Association has announced it will be dissolving, citing a number of challenges to hosting the show.
Herald file photo by Al BeeberAl Beeber – LETHBRIDGE HERALD – abeeber@lethbridgeherald.com
Lethbridge may have seen its last airshow.
The Lethbridge International Airshow Association on Thursday announced its dissolution.
A press release from the association said it will cease operations “promptly” and dissolve as soon as possible.
Several factors were cited in the decision to call it quits. They include challenges securing adequate grants and funding from event partners due to significant increasing operational costs of the event.
Minimum requirements for global military assets and jet teams was also a factor because in many cases they exceed the current surfaces at the Lethbridge airport, “making it difficult to secure the performers that our audience deserves,” said the association.
Legal and logistical requirements of event partners have added to the complexities of organizing show and securing enough volunteers has become a challenge, the LIAA stated.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the community of Lethbridge and surrounding areas for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your passion for the airshow has been the driving force behind our efforts, and we are incredibly proud of the memories we’ve created together,” said the LIAA in a statement.
The association also thanked sponsors and offered appreciation to the City of Lethbridge and the airport for their support and collaboration.
It added thanks to Lethbridge County for its support and the Fire and EMS Services in the county and on the Blood Tribe for providing their services at shows.
“As we bid farewell, we take with us the incredible memories and the knowledge that the spirit of the Lethbridge International Airshow will live on in the hearts of those who attended and supported it over the years,” the statement added.
The show was last staged in 2023 – it was the second year in a row for the show with the association having plans to move it to odd-numbered years starting in 2025.
13-12
Sad to hear this. Enjoyed the last two air shows.
As a long term volunteer , having great memories, this is sad news
well, at least we still have wheels weekend to demonstrate that useless burning of fossil fuels still has a home in lethbridge