The Quinte International Air Show weekend is finally here, after almost two years of planning
It promises to be a spectacular showcase of aviation excellence, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
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Officials say it will feature an awe-inspiring display of aviation excellence sure to captivate audiences with an unforgettable showcase of aerial performances, ground displays, and family-friendly activities, all while commemorating the 100th anniversary of the RCAF.
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Lieutenant-Colonel (ret.) Kevin Tromp is back as one of this years main organizers. He says tickets sales have gone really well so far and they are as easy to find as CLICKING HERE
“We wanted to do that to have a better idea of how many people to expect on Saturday and Sunday. There’s still tickets left. I think Saturday has a chance of selling out.”
He says they are very affordable as well.
“Tickets right now are $25 for adults, youth from 7-17, seniors and veterans are $20. Military members in uniform are free.”
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Air Show Co-Chair Lieutenant-Colonel Steve Thompson says there is a major focus on kids and families.
“There’s a kids zone and a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) work-up centre, where you can go and see some simulators, a place for the younger kids to just get out, relax on bouncy castles if they need to burn off some energy while we’re watching airplanes fly. That’s a great place for them to go.”
He adds that information is key, with the website and app key.
“The website, the app is amazing, it’s fully interactive. Once you get to the airfield, it will tell you where to go, what type of food you want, where to see all of our great static displays. Same with the parking.”
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Aircraft are arriving at 8 Wing Trenton throughout the week leading up to air show weekend. Bay of Quinte residents can expect to see an increase in air traffic and aircraft noise.
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(Photo: Quinte News)
Some of the planes at the show include a Lancaster Bomber, the Snowbirds, the Frecce Tricolori (Italian Aerobatics team), C47 Dakota, spitfires, mustangs, legacy jets, a water bomber, and one everything the Royal Canadian Air Force flies.
The event will also include performances from the U.S. Air Force’s F-16 Viper Demo Team.
Captain Taylor Hiester (Hee-ster) says their team of nine are honoured to be a part of the festivities celebrating 100 years of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
“We’re here to celebrate partnerships between the people of Canada and the people of the United States and as you guys celebrate your heritage and the hundred year history of your Air Force, we’re just grateful to be a small part of that here and celebrate the partnership between the United States and Canada.”
There will be dozens of food/drink vendors, displays, simulators, an F18 cockpit virtual reality, aerobatic demonstrations, and much more. There will be opportunities to learn more about careers in aviation as well.
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The Quinte International Air show website CLICK HERE and the app RCAF100, are available from the Apple App store and the hub for all the information you WIll need to ensure your air show experience is a success. See the list of performers, food vendors on site, and other activities that will be happening throughout the weekend, as well as full details on free parking and shuttle services.
Event Highlights:
Aerial Performances: The QIAS has an impressive line-up of air show performers including the Italian Frecce Tricolori demonstration team, the CF-18 Demo Team with the commemorative RCAF 100 paint scheme, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the F-16 Viper Demo Team from the United States Air Force, Kyle Fowler with his Long EZ airplane, the three-plane Northern Stars Aeroteam, a C-17 Demo from 429 Transport Squadron and a very special RCAF 100 Commemorative flypast with vintage aircraft.
Static Displays: Get up close to a diverse collection military and civilian aircraft on display and learn about the history, capabilities, and innovations behind each aircraft.
Kids and STEM Zones: Enjoy interactive exhibits, simulators, aviation-themed activities, bouncy castles, games, and so much more. We have a quiet zone that includes breastfeeding and diaper changing areas for a worry-free experience for you and your little ones.
Autograph Booth: For those aspiring aviators, be sure to check out our autograph tent where you will get the chance to meet the performers in person and get an autograph and a photo!
Musical Entertainment: Musical performances will be taking place throughout the show site including Andy Forgie, the 8 Wing Concert Band, the 8 Wing Pipe Band, and the 75-member Canadian Military Wives Choirs.
The FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) page is full of helpful information on what to bring or not bring and other things you can expect to see and do while at the air show. Tickets are only available for purchase online from the QIAS website so be sure to buy yours today as tickets are selling fast.
Free air show parking locations with shuttle and Quinte Access services
- Loyalist College – 376 Wallbridge Loyalist Rd., Belleville
- Bayside Public School – 132 Aikins Rd., Belleville
- Aikins Road Lot – 378 Aikins Rd., Quinte West
- Whites Road Lot – 70 Whites Rd., Quinte West
- Carrying Place Industrial Park – 2nd Dug Hill Rd., and Loyalist Pkwy. Rd., Quinte West
- Trent Port Marina, multiple lots – 15 Creswell Dr., Quinte West
- Centennial Park – 12 Couch Cres., Quinte West (~60 min. walk)
Quotes
Lieutenant-Colonel Steve Thompson, QIAS 2024 Co-Chair
“We have curated an exceptional lineup of air show performers and captivating static displays for the Quinte International Air Show at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton this weekend. From spectacular aerial displays to up-close encounters with military aircraft, this air show will be an unforgettable experience for all ages. Join us for an aviation filled weekend with activities for the whole family and the chance to celebrate the rich heritage of the Royal Canadian Air Force in its 100th year of service.”
Colonel Leighton James, Commander 8 Wing/CFB Trenton
“I look forward to connecting with friends and neighbours from across our local communities at the upcoming Quinte International Air Show on June 29 and 30. Hosting this air show amidst the Royal Canadian Air Forces’ (RCAF) centennial is more than a spectacle; it is a tribute to those who served before us defending our skies and freedoms. I hope you enjoy your weekend and take the opportunity to engage with our members and learn more about what we do here at 8 Wing and within the RCAF.”
Lauren Roberts of Quinte News does a jump with the Skyhawks
