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Abbotsford International Airshow has a Proud History

Photos and story by Ed Anderson

In keeping with true Abbotsford tradition of spectacular, colorful and exciting surprises, Abbotsford in 1986, became the first Airshow in North America to host five world- class military air demonstration teams. In 1989 and 1993, we saw the first U.S.S.R. contingent to visit North America with MIG 29's, an IL-76 and the AH-225, the worlds largest transport aircraft. 1992 saw the only appearance in North America of the "Russian Knights" SU-27 air demonstration team.

Set in the heart of the beautiful Fraser Valley with Mt Baker, WA as a backdrop, the Abbotsford International  Airshow is one of the premier airshows in North America in terms of attendance and numbers of aircraft. Designated "Canada's National Airshow" by the Government of Canada in the early 1970's, the average attendance for the three day event has been upwards of 200,000. Also, the Abbotsford Airshow hosts representatives from approximately 25 countries, including Ambassadors, Consuls General and Military Attaches.

{Compiled in part from information provided by the Abbotsford Airshow Society).

 

 

In 1962, a small group ofAirshow Enthusiasts got together and decided to put on an air show. The people were members of the local Rotary Club and the Abbotsford Flying Club. These clubs sponsored the first show and went on to host a second show in 1963.

The air show continued to grow in the 1960's becoming a rather large event. At the close of the 1966 show it was decided that a special show would be planned for the 1967 centennial year. The Centennial Air Show Society was formed. Upon closing a very successful 1967 show , members of the 'Society' decided to continue on a more permanent basis. The Abbotsford International Airshow was born!

The Abbotsford International Airshow Society is a non profit society whose purpose is to produce a flying event that will be enjoyable entertainment for those who attend, promote aviation and operate financially so as to produce the event on an annual basis.

Each year hundreds of volunteers provide the talent and hard work while a variety of sponsors and donors provide the necessary funding for this special event. The volunteer force is made up of persons from all walks of life, many of whom volunteer directly to the Airshow organization while others come on through the numerous service club organizations, such as Rotary, Kiwanis, the Boy Scouts/Girl Guides/Military Cadets, the Military at large, St. Johns Ambulance and numerous other community organizations, plus support from a multitude of Corporate Sponsers and Contributors.

The Abbotsford International Airshow is a source of pride for Abbotsford and all of British Columbia which will continue to enrich the community and thrill and inspire thousands of people each year. So don't forget to take in the Abbotsford Airshow, a great weekend for the entire family.

Last year, the 39th 'Big Show' featured performers that included; Jimmy Franklin/Carol Pilon in the Super Waco, Bud Granley and his Air Force, Dan Buchanan, Hang Glider, Rich Perkins - L-39 Firecat, Kent Pietsch - Interstate Cadet and many others, Warbirds, Military Demos. Static Displays, ground shows, etc. etc.

http://www.abbotsfordairshow.com/