Addendum: As a note of interest, the USAF Thunderbirds lead solo pilot this year is Major Samantha Weeks, the first woman pilot ever to fly with a U.S. military flight demonstration team. See my previous post on the subject.

• What: One of Canada’s largest Airshows. Among the featured performances this year are: USAF Thunderbirds Flight Demonstration Team, CAF Snowbirds Flight Demonstration Team, CAF Skyhawks Parachute Team, CF-18 Hornet, F-18 Super Hornet, CV-22 Osprey (Vertical Takeoff and Landing), F-15E Strike Eagle, Helicopter SAR Demo, AV8FX Pyrotechnics, including the famous wall of fire, civilian aerobatic teams and performers, vintage WWII aircraft, extensive static displays. Extensive food concessions and vendors, excellent restroom facilities.

• Where: Abbotsford International Airport, Abbotsford, B.C. [map] [area map showing entry gates] GreatNorthwest advises taking the Lynden, WA-Aldergrove B.C. Border Crossing, via Guide Meridian. Watch for the “Airshow” signs once over the border, or ask the border guard if you’re afraid of getting lost. Studying the Google map linked above will help you plan a route.

• When: Friday Aug. 8 - Sunday Aug. 10. Gates open at 8:00am, pre-show flying events 10:45am, Official show opening 12:00pm. Show ends at 5:30pm.

• Admission: Note: To buy tickets at the gate, you must enter via the KING STREET ENTRANCE [printable PDF of airfield and gate entrances.]
  • Children 5 yrs. and under: Free
  • Children 6-12 yrs: $10.00
  • Children 13 yrs - Adult: $25.00
  • Carload pass: $80.00, maximum 8 persons.
  • Parking is FREE
  • Cash, Interac, VISA and MasterCard are the forms of payment accepted at the main gate, King Street entrance.

Note: This is a very extensive 3-day event, and there are special rules about what you may and may not bring into the airfield. I advise that you consult the official FAQ and review the website before making plans to attend.

And now, to get you stoked, here’s a selection of photographs from last year’s show–