After many years of thrilling performances, community engagement and fostering a love for aviation, the Lethbridge International Airshow Association has announced its dissolution.
According to the Association, it will cease operations promptly and take steps to dissolve, as soon as practically possible.
Over the years, the Lethbridge International Airshow has been a staple event in southern Alberta, drawing crowds from near and far to witness breathtaking aerial displays and connect with the aviation community.
“This decision comes after careful consideration and reflects the challenges and changing circumstances impacting our ability to continue delivering this beloved event,” notes the Association.
Several key factors have led to this difficult decision:
- Securing Adequate Funding Support: The significant increasing costs related to operating an event of this size have made it challenging to secure adequate grants and funding from event partners.
- Challenges in Securing Demonstration Assets: Required minimums, as per global military asset providers and jet teams, in many cases exceed the current surfaces at the Lethbridge Airport making it difficult to secure the performers that audience members deserve.
- Legal and Logistical Requirements: The legal and logistical requirements requested of the board by event partners have added to the complexities of organizing the event.
- Volunteer Support: Securing the appropriate level of volunteers to run this large event has become challenging, given the time of year and many other community volunteer needs.
