The Canadian Forces has decided to cancel the 2021 Saskatchewan Airshow, which means aviation fans will probably have to wait until 2023 to watch vintage and modern aircraft perform stunts and acts.
It was disappointing to cancel the airshow, but it was also a simple decision, said Capt. Jenn Halliwell, public affairs officer with 1 Canadian Air Division. The Forces’ main priority is the safety of its members and the communities in which they serve. With the pandemic still ongoing, the organization is focused on its operationally essential mission of training the next generation of pilots with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
“Hosting an airshow takes a lot of effort and time commitment from our members above and beyond their normal duties, as well as from members of the airshow committee,” Halliwell said. “Additionally, an airshow is a huge financial commitment for all stakeholders, and the uncertain future does not merit the risk.
“For these two reasons, hosting an airshow is just not feasible at this time.”
The Canadian Forces is thrilled with the success that the 2019 Saskatchewan Airshow had, but its goal has always been to support the Moose Jaw community since it supports the base every day, she continued. Right now, that means supporting local public health measures and minimizing the risk.
Similar to other large-scale events across Canada, the organization was unwilling to speculate on the future of the Saskatchewan Airshow, Halliwell added. However, the Forces might evaluate the feasibility of the event once the strain of the pandemic has left Saskatchewan.
The Saskatchewan Airshow returned to Moose Jaw in 2019 after a 14-year hiatus. Close to 40,000 people attended the show at 15 Wing on July 6 and 7, 2019, where they watched military and civilian acts demonstrate air performances in vintage and modern aircraft. Visitors also visited aircraft and historical displays, while there was a large children’s area and VIP corporate chalets and concessions.
15 Wing Moose Jaw is the centre of the RCAF aircrew training and comprises two Canadian Forces flying training schools. It is also home to the Snowbirds.
