Windsor International Air Show

The Rick Mercer Report

2011-10-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

Watch The Rick Mercer Report this Tuesday October 4 at 8 pm on CBC television. Watch as he does what he does best in a Harvard flight, a Boeing Stearman flight and a Skyhawk tandem jump.
Rick also interviews Chris Hadfield in front of the Sabre.
Rick and crew were a fantastic team to work with and once you see the visuals you will agree they have done all air shows a great service by highlighting CHAA and CH2A vintage aircraft in flight. His comic antics prove once again you become a kid once you fly.
The RMR team usually have two locations per show they use but had so much great footage the whole show is on Windsor.
Thank you to the team at CHAA and CH2A for providing the aircraft and team to make the show possible. Edward was the pilot in the Harvard team and Rick was impressed. Namely that he landed safely.
Ron Holden was the pilot in the Stearman who gave Rick the ride he's always been missing. It's a wonderful feeling supporting these two dedicated vintage aircraft flying museums. They spend thousands of volunteer hours teaching, caring and performing every year for those willing to watch and learn.
There's more to an air show than just what you see from your backyard. Don't miss this episode.
Thank you to the RMR team and hope to see you again soon!

Rick Mercer Report

2011-09-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

Breaking news worthy of reading.
On Saturday September 10, Rick Mercer will not only be at the show, he will be jumping with the Skyhawks Parachute Team to open the show followed by the opening flights. The people who purchased the Photo Tour pass are going to have some of the best seats in the house. After his short adventure we are going to put Rick into some vintage aircraft up and around Windsor, and yes we will keep him occupied while he tapes segments for his show.
HCol Mercer was named Honorary Colonel of 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron at 12 Wing Shearwater in August 2006.
The Windsor International Air Show is looking forward to hosting The Rick Mercer Report.
It's Canadian of course.

CP140

2011-09-02T06:20:00.000-07:00

The anti-submarine CP-140 Aurora will be at the Windsor International Air Show. As Canada’s only strategic maritime surveillance aircraft, the CP-140 Aurora is often used to patrol Canada’s coastlines, safeguarding our waters from foreign threats. Capable of flying more than 9000 km—or 5000 nautical miles—without refueling, this multi-purpose aircraft goes the distance. They will have guided tours on board. Get a look at some of the latest anti-submarine equipment and view actual footage they have taken. It's a good one to see. Don't miss this one.

Destination.... Windsor

2011-09-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

They are on their way. VFA 106 Gladiators of the skies.
You can't see these from your backyard.

Throttling Up

2011-08-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

Looks like we got what we wanted. Hawk One will be flying in Windsor and Chris Hadfield will be flying on Saturday. You can expect some heritage flights and a whole lot more noise. Chris literally began his dream of aviation in Windsor while watching an air show. He will be transiting from Russia to Windsor en-route to Houston. Talk about timing.
More to come on this performance. We've got the real rocket man September 10 & 11, 2011.

The Rick Mercer Report

2011-08-23T06:36:00.000-07:00

Rick Mercer will be taping segments of CBC's Rick Mercer Report September 10 & 11 at the Windsor International Air Show.
Where else but one of Canada's best civilian air shows.

Next Up,

You can't watch this from your backyard.

Affordable Entertainment

2011-08-15T06:29:00.000-07:00

Air shows are known across North America as the most affordable and most entertaining venue for your money. We bring you up close from the most modern to some of history's greatest flying aircraft. The performers and pilots who fly in air shows welcome questions, visits, and interact with crowds like no other entertainer will. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on while you watch them perform some astounding aerobatics. The military come to Windsor so the public can see their skills as they push the "envelope" to display the capabilities of the machine and themselves as a cohesive pair.
The Snowbirds have the precision and grace like no other team in the world. No other 9 ship formation in the world can accomplish what they can do. They fly for Canada.
We have almost 4 hours of constant flying and there will always be something in the air. Never a dull moment.
Don't miss the opening or the race, airplane rides or the ground acts. Yes I did say the race. Is Pete up to the challenge?
We have contest winners from last year who got some great pictures of their family sitting inside some of the aircraft.
People say they didn't know you could go inside of them. Well, now they do.
It doesn't matter what else is happening around town on our air show weekend. The Windsor air show is the biggest event in Southwestern Ontario. No other will come close. You can't ignore our presence. Some try to but we are Red, white and very loud. We give you and your family memories that can last a lifetime. Lifetime dreams come alive for many as they follow their hearts desire to become a pilot and then some. Need an example?
Chris Hadfield.
Chris watched an air show in Windsor in 1963 where he decided to fly. He will become the first Canadian to command a Space Station next year.
That is a dream fulfilled and it started in Windsor.
Gates will be open at 9:30. Gates will close at 4:30.
That's 7 hours to explore and learn. Bring your camera and make sure it's got lots of memory.
Meet the pilots, see aircraft up close. Meet our Veterans. Thank our Veterans.
We bring history to Windsor without enormous sponsors. We also work with local establishments to help them get noticed at a very affordable cost. The air show supports In Honour of The Ones We Love. Friday is the day we get the children out of the hospital for a few hours to get special treatment from the pilots and ground crew. Every smile is worth it.
Did I mention food? Our contestants will be competing for the Best International Chicken Wings on Friday September 9. $5 to get in, Free Parking, and a chance to watch the ground crews set up an air show. The pilots will also be there for the kick off and the Jet Truck will give a small preview of the weekend.

Advance Tickets are available at
Pioneer Gas Stations
Henry's Photo on Howard
Windsor Flying Club

Bring the family and enjoy the day without straining your budget.

2011-07-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

Fun Loving Volunteers are required to help out this year at the Air Show!
Experience the jets and pilots up close like no other event.
We are the biggest event in Essex County.

Filling Up The Ramp

2011-07-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

We welcome F-16's from the Alabama National Guard this year. Get up close and personal with these static aircraft as the pilots give you a close up look at some of America's finest modern dogfighters. We feel privileged to showcase the US arsenal and provide hospitality to the boys that fly them. Check out the aircraft, meet and greet the pilots while enjoying a World Class airshow from the field. The only place to be.

And Another One

2011-07-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Coming to Windsor.
The C130 is a four-engine turboprop tactical transport aircraft with a rear cargo ramp, rugged landing gear, good short-field performance and high ground clearance for engines and propellers, used for troop transport, tactical airlift (both palletized and vehicular cargo), search and rescue, air-to-air refueling, and aircrew training and qualification. Designed to operate from unimproved airstrips in an active theater of operations. Get the chance to sit up front in the cockpit as the pilots bring you on board for a tour.
Be a part of the show.

Confirmations Have Begun

2011-07-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

Maximum payload capacity of the C-17 is 170,900 pounds (77,519 kilograms), and its maximum gross takeoff weight is 585,000 pounds (265,352 kilograms). With a payload of 169,000 pounds (76,657 kilograms) and an initial cruise altitude of 28,000 feet (8,534 meters), the C-17 has an unrefueled range of approximately 2,400 nautical miles. Its cruise speed is approximately 450 knots (.76 Mach). The C-17 is designed to airdrop 102 paratroopers and equipment.

The design of the aircraft allows it to operate through small, austere airfields. The C-17 can take off and land on runways as short as 3,500 feet (1,064 meters) and only 90 feet wide (27.4 meters). Even on such narrow runways, the C-17 can turn around using a three-point star turn and its backing capability.

Step right into this modern military behemoth at Windsor airport this September. Meet and chat with the crew who fly this aircraft around the world in and out of hotspots and humanitarian causes.

Just For Fun

2011-06-22T07:10:00.000-07:00

Volunteer and Vendor Registration

2011-06-04T16:04:00.000-07:00

Registration will be going on tomorrow for volunteers and vendors. Volunteers get the chance to meet the performers, take pictures and be a part of one of the biggest air shows in Canada. Vendors will get the chance to sell in front of tens of thousands for the weekend at a very affordable cost. We won't oversell the grounds. We are working on a first come first serve basis and it's filling up fast.
Working in an air show creates friendships that last forever. Be a part of a community project that is big, fun, very loud and exciting to the extreme.
Go to our website and fill out the form and bring it in. The address and times are marked on the sheet.
http://www.winairshow.com/get-involved/volunteers-needed

Catch the Excitement!

See you there.

Bar-B-Que Fundraiser

2011-05-07T14:34:00.000-07:00

June 12: North Wall Riders Association will host its annual family-centered steak b-b-q at RCL Branch 143 from 4 - 7 pm. Live entertainment "on stage" until 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $20.00 pp available through Mike Lepine - 519 945-3199 or at Branch 143 - 1570 Marentette Avenue. Proceeds to support BROKEN WING, a charitable organization that provides support to soldiers needing help to reintegrate back into society throughout their communities. We will remember them benefit.

Volunteers and Vendors Wanted!

2011-04-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

The next registration date for volunteers is just around the corner. May 8. It will only take a few minutes as we get to meet you in person. Check out the application HERE for more information.
We need a lot of able bodied people who are looking to help out one of Canada's biggest civilian air shows.

Vendors
Check out the Vendor application HERE and get it in early. We've already had quite a few that attended last year and made sure they are getting the chance to sell to tens of thousands for the weekend. We work on a first come first serve basis and we will not load up the field with a lot of competition. This gives the Vendor an exceptional opportunity for a great weekend. It's a lot of people in one area.

Early Bird Flight Line Tour and Pass

2011-04-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

We can put you as close to the action as we can without actually putting you in the seat. The Photo Pass allows you to sit right up at the flight line without people standing in front of you when they taxi by or do the low level .9 Mach pass.

You will get the chance to tour the hot ramp with some security and tour guides in tow so you can get the opportunity of some real close shots of the performing aircraft before the crowds get in the way. Henry's will be sponsoring again this year and the lucky ones last year got some great giveaways. We'll have reserved chairs for you to get those amazing shots we see so much of.

Please act soon as they sold very quickly last year. They are limited and in high demand.

Time to light the fires.
See you there.

Ops Desk.

2011 CF-18 Demo Jet

2011-04-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

Here's some pictures of the 2011 CF-18 Demo Jet coming to Windsor in September. The theme for this year
is Supporting Our Military Families.
I like it.

Don't miss it September 10 & 11 over Windsor.

Just a couple of winning Pictures.

2011-03-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

Just a few of the great pics we have been sent on the 2010 air show. We have so many to go through from a lot of spectators that we are just going to have to give away quite a few tickets. They ranged from just aircraft to happy families sitting inside with their kids in the pilots' seat.
Thanks to everyone who sent us pictures. It kept my email full. 2011 jusy got a little more exciting.

CF-18 Hornet Demo Pilot Bio

2011-03-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

2011 Demonstration Pilot

Captain Erick O’Connor

Capt Erick O’Connor was born Quebec City and enrolled in the Canadian Forces (CF) in August 1991 while attending Chicoutimi Flight College. In 1994, after completing his Basic Flight Training in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, he was selected to fly helicopters. Capt O’Connor trained on the Kiowa before being posted to 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (THS) in Edmonton where he flew the Twin Huey and Griffon helicopter for 9 years, deploying on multiple domestic operations and training exercises.

Captain Erick O’Connor. Credit: 4 Wing Imagery Section.
In 1997, while still flying with 408 THS, Capt O’Connor deployed to Haiti on a peacekeeping mission in support to the United Nations followed in 1999 by the NATO-led peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, where he was employed as the unit Instrument Check Pilot (ICP) and Squadron Training Officer.

Upon return to Canada in December 1999, he served as the 408 THS Operations Officer until his release from the Regular Force in 2001. For the next two years, Capt O’Connor served as a Reservist with 408 THS while flying multi-engine aircraft with an Edmonton-based company.

In early 2004, Capt O’Connor fulfilled one of his initial aviation goals when he took a Reserve position to teach on the Harvard 2 aircraft in Moose Jaw, where soon after he returned to the Regular Force. In 2005, he was awarded the A2 Instructor Category and was offered further advancement onto the CT-155 Hawk and the CF-18 Hornet. Upon completion of the Fighter Lead-In Training at 419 squadron, Capt O’Connor was posted to 410 squadron where he completed the Fighter Pilot training on the CF-18 Hornet.

In December 2008, Capt O’Connor was posted to 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) where he currently serves as the Unit Flight Safety Officer and Unit Instrument Check Pilot. Capt O’Connor has over 5600 hours of flying experience on various aircraft. He and wife, Danielle, have two daughters, Gabrielle and Ella.

Snowbirds Media Ride

2011-03-09T12:44:00.000-08:00

The Snowbirds will be doing a media flight for the Windsor International Air Show this year. They will be taking up a total of 5 people, which consists of 3 media people, 1 deserving soldier and 1 deserving candidate from our area.
This is a rare treat for the individuals as the Snowbirds make sure the rides are well deserved and qualify to their standards.
A pre-congratulations to the selections in Windsor!

More Noise!

2011-03-07T10:47:00.000-08:00

Windsor will be hosting the CF-18 Hornet Demo Team once again!
The Demo pilot for this year is Capt Erick O’Connor of 409 Squadron in Cold Lake Alberta. The theme for this years Demo team is “Supporting Military Families”.
The Windsor Air Show is grateful to the Canadian DND and the Canadian Air Force as the sky over Windsor is filling up with the best an air show has to offer.
See you soon!

2011 Show Will Be Taking Applications

2011-02-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

VOLUNTEERS
We'll be opening up the application process very soon. Each volunteer will have to fill in a new application even of we had you on file last year. Every year we have to get your correct information and find a place for you in our organization.
The new PDF file can be filled in electronically and printed. From there you will take it to one of the meetings we have scheduled. You only have to attend one application meeting and from there you will be contacted as to where you will be working for us.
We cannot accept applications by fax or email. You will have to do it in person.
This year we will need close to 400 volunteers for the show. It's a great chance to meet the performers and have a great time working in the community.

VENDORS
Applications will be available soon. We will also be setting up dedicated meeting dates for the application process. We won't be able to accept applications by email or fax.

Check back soon.

To Our Local Followers

2011-02-07T06:35:00.000-08:00

Click here to help out.

Harry is second from the left and the picture shows him with his cane. Please check the story and see if you know of anyone that picked it up.
Thank you.

How Big Can we Go?

2011-01-25T19:44:00.000-08:00

Raise the stakes a little?

Another Hot Bird Coming Through - MIG 21

2011-01-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

William Ward is a 14,000 hour ATP and currently the Captain of an Airbus A-320. Will also flew an MD-80 for the same commercial airline company. Will has been flying for 24 years and graduated from the University of North Dakota aviation program. While at UND Will lead the UND Flying Team to a first place finish in Regional and National Competition. He also received the Jeppson Outstanding Team Member Award.

Will is extremely knowledgeable on a wide variety of Soviet aircraft capabilities and considers the MiG-17 one of the best all around fighters of the era. He has flown 60 different aircraft from the Sukhoi 29, A-26, Invader, DC-6, F-104, T-33, MiG 15, MiG 21, and MD-80 series.

I've been told he accelerates showmanship and really flies this bird.

Don't miss this one.

Smokin for 2011

2010-12-28T05:24:00.000-08:00

Object theme for the Windsor International Air Show 2011

Hot Fast and Loud.

2010-12-13T17:38:00.000-08:00

12,000 Horsepower
375 Miles Per Hour - Air Show Speed Record
World's Fastest Jet Truck
Not bad for a Chevy.
See it in Windsor next September. Think he'll have the nerve to take on Pete?
Just watch.................

September 10 & 11 2010

2010-12-12T19:53:00.000-08:00

Work is progressing on the 2011 show and tickets will be offered soon with some really great early bird deals.
The confirmed line up as of today,
Snowbirds
Mike Goulian
Pete McLeod
Jacquie B
Neal Darnell (Jet Truck)
Firecat
Hawk One

We're awaiting more confirmations and acts as we get them. Many more are lined up with conversations ongoing.We're looking to keep it interesting and still have the familiar Sounds of Freedom theme.
We'll be setting up the new website soon with updated information.

Stay Tuned

New Snow Bird Team Has A Windsor Connection

2010-11-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

November 26, 2010

15 WING, MOOSE JAW, SASK. – Five Canadian Forces pilots were officially introduced as the latest members of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Wednesday, November 24 at 15 Wing, Moose Jaw, Sask., after a rigorous selection process and months of preparation.

The newest squadron members are Snowbird 3, Captain Padruig MacIntosh, of Windsor, Ont.; Snowbird 5, Captain Brett Parker, of Edmonton, Alta.; Snowbird 6, Captain Denis Bandet, of Regina, Sask.; Snowbird 8, Major Ryan Stich, of Toronto, Ont.; and Advance and Safety Pilot – Snowbird 11, Captain Robert Chagnon, of Laval, Que.
.
“It’s a great honour and privilege to be a Snowbird,” said Major Chris Hope, Snowbird #1 and Team Lead of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "For many of our new pilots, this moment is a fulfillment of a childhood dream and a culmination of years of training and flying experience with the Canadian Forces.”

The newest Snowbirds bring thousands of flying hours and a wealth of operational experience to the squadron. The Snowbirds are comprised of personnel, with years of military experience representing the Army, Navy and Air Force.

While selection of the pilots for 2011 began in the Spring of this year, they have not had the opportunity to fly as an integrated, nine-plane formation until this November. The squadron now prepares for their first public appearance this weekend at the Canadian Football Championship – the 98th Grey Cup.

During the 2011 season, the team is expected to participate in about 60 air shows across North America, representing the professionalism, skill and teamwork of the Canadian Forces and inspiring Canadians to consider a career in Canada’s military.

Veterans Week

2010-11-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Chicken and Pasta Dinner

2010-10-21T06:44:00.000-07:00

Helping Out A Worthy Cause

As part of our mandate we are looking to assist others who helped us out at the air show. The North Wall Riders volunteered to help out with parking and they did an excellent job for us.

Any fundraiser that goes to our veterans or military that served our country is well worth helping out.

The cost is very little compared to the support it gives our troops.

Give them a call and let them know you can stop by for a meal and know that you are helping out the men and women who voluntarily stand up for freedom.

Winning Ticket

2010-09-30T05:47:00.000-07:00

The winning ticket for the television draw, finally was claimed by Dennis Dionne.
A DVD player and Flat screen television courtesy of Sony at Devonshire Mall.

Don't forget to get signed up for insider updates and Facebook posts.
Check out Pete Mcleod
http://www.facebook.com/PeteMcLeod84?ref=ts
http://www.petemcleodracing.com/
His 2009 performance in the Giles was captured and available on our 2009 DVD.

2010 DVD Pre-Order

2010-09-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

Some customers may not have a PayPal or credit card account so we are opening the purchase up so you can pay with cheque or money order. PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH.

Make it out to

Windsor International Air Show

Send the payment to

WIAS

PO Box 878

Tilbury ON

N0P 2L0

To be fair we will go by the postmark so you can save on the December increase.

Another Draw

2010-09-25T05:50:00.000-07:00

Well....

The person who I was in contact with for the first ticket draw has conceded that he can't find the winning ticket stub. I need evidence he really had it or it wouldn't be fair to assume. Extra time was given to be fair but no ticket was presented.

Hopefully the winner still has been keeping tabs on it.

The new Winning Ticket # is 000048.

What's Next? Stay Tuned.................

2010-09-19T18:44:00.000-07:00

Real Community Support

2010-09-08T09:07:00.001-07:00

Please support the sponsors that support community organizations that work for Windsor Essex and tourism. Jamieson embodies the true spirit of worker business relationships and how they stand in the community. I'm buying Jamieson vitamins from now on. Putting on an air show really depletes your resources.

If you go to one of our sponsors please let them know that their efforts do not go unnoticed. we would like to tell them that one weekend a year gets them a year of appreciation.

Thank you Jamieson and all of our private supporters!

A special thanks also goes out to Pioneer Petroleums, for they have supported the show from the start. Fill up at a Pioneer and let them know they have been recognized.

Sony Television Draw

2010-08-24T17:53:00.001-07:00

The winning ticket number for the

32" Sony Flat Screen Television and DVD player is....

002254

The winner with the matching number as drawn on the "ROCK" can call 519-682-9797 or email info@winairshow.com

Once verified the winner must agree to their picture being taken and used for the Windsor International Air Show.

If the prize is not claimed by midnight August 31,2010

we will draw another ticket.

Congratulations!

Thank you to Sony at Devonshire Mall for providing the prizes.

Winner of the VIA Rail Trip

Jennifer Murray

Please contact our office via email. She was a signed up member of WIAS. The estimated value of the trip is over $1,000.

Prize to be awarded as given.

Congratulations!

Parking Aircraft

2010-08-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed yet an Air Show is gearing up at the Windsor International Air Show. The Snowbirds arrival capped off an absolutely fantastic arrival day. Pilots filtered through the Windsor Flying Club and many were glad to be back and others glad to be a part of the Windsor International Air Show.
The Brazilians are ecstatic about being in Canada and are thankful for our hospitality. You may see a few of them downtown this weekend at local establishments. The Snowbirds and many other pilots will be roaming the streets meeting fans and greeting new people.
The Back Stage Pass starts today at 2:00 pm and the Wing Off starts at 4:00 pm and will run to approximately 11:00 pm.
Great Wings, cold beer, and a lot of stories. It will be a night to remember for years to come.
Bring the family and meet the pilots.
Guess what?
There's tons of aircraft arriving all day Friday. The Wing Off pass is only $5 which includes parking. Why would you watch it from the street for that?
Check out 11:00 am........
CF-18 Hornet. Demo. Loud fast and powerful.
Coming at ya'...............................

Sounds of Freedom II
Has it sunk in yet?

Itinerary For The Week

2010-08-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

The field is laid out and the aircraft are coming. The Brazilians are in Puerto Rico and will head for Tampa Bay tomorrow and then Wednesday afternoon they will land in Windsor.
The Snowbirds, Hurricane, and a Harvard will round out the day.
Check out the itinerary at,
www.wiasvendors.blogspot.com

It's a blog from last year, I know, but it gives me a chance to change it quickly. I don't think it will change much other than the length of time each plane is in the air or the order they will be in.
Keep an eye open over the skies of Windsor.
Just remember, you'll hear them first.

Sounds of Freedom II
it's finally here....

F-5 Tiger II

2010-08-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

The Northrop F-5A/B Freedom Fighter and F-5E/F Tiger II are part of a family of widely used light supersonic fighter aircraft, designed and built by Northrop in the United States, beginning in the 1960s. Hundreds remain in service in air forces around the world in the early 21st Century, and the type has also been the basis for a number of other aircraft.
The F-5 started life as a privately funded light fighter program by Northrop in the 1950s. The first generation F-5A Freedom Fighter entered service in the 1960s. Over 800 were produced through 1972 for U.S. allies during the Cold War. The USAF had no need for a light fighter, but it did specify a requirement for a supersonic trainer and procured about 1,200 of a derivative airframe for this purpose, the T-38 Talon.

It just looks fast sitting still. 0- 600 in a heartbeat.

The Windsor International Air Show welcomes Naval Air Station Fallon.

Top Guns?

Stop in at the airport and find out.

August 21 & 22.

Sounds of Freedom II

make some room.

What IS An Air Show?

2010-08-11T13:40:00.001-07:00

With tens of millions of spectators attending air shows each year, the air show industry represents one of the very largest, if not the largest, outdoor professional sports in North America. And it’s no wonder, as the shows themselves deliver entertainment value at a modest cost for families the likes of which can’t be found anywhere else, at any price. From supersonic-speed military jets to gravity-defying aerobatic acts to a host of on-the-ground displays and activities, a day at an air show yields memories that truly last a lifetime. Indeed, air shows have become anchor events within the calendars of local communities coast to coast.
Air shows are flying museums with the vintage aircraft and are also a look into the technological aspect that many of the fast movers have become today.
As we go around and prepare of the show I am absolutely astounded that people in general do not know that you can actually sit inside some of these aircraft at any air show. I've spoken with spectators who have sat on the outside watching in telling me how great it was. Not so.
By watching from the outside you lose the perspective on the aircraft. Any airport has aircraft that fly overhead, even military jets.
In order to feel and actually experience the heart pounding thrust or the goosebumps, you have to be on the field.
Why?
The aircraft are a wonder, however they can't do much without a person in the seat. The pilot can manoeuvre the aircraft in certain ways that make your hair stand on end and make you gaze like a kid again at how they can possibly do what they do.
The Noise.
The Smell.
The Feel.
Not to mention a narrator that takes you back into history and teaches about the aircraft, not just how pretty it looks when it blows by the crowd followed by the shattering blast as it leaves your sight.
The slower aircraft tell us stories from days gone by and how the Veterans paved the way for our current lifestyle.
Ever wonder how much horsepower is actually in the engines?
How much fuel it burns?
Can that helicopter really lift a house?
Don't forget the stories. Lots of stories.
So by coming onto the field you also get knowledge and a sense of excitement. the excitement that comes from learning something new or just by the raw static energy in the air.
More value, more space, more to see and do.
The biggest and most challenging show in Essex County.period.
390 Volunteers
60 aircraft
Concessions
Vendors
Bounce Castles
They all ad up to a lot of fun.

Spread the word.

Sounds of Freedom II

Canadian CF-18 Demo

2010-08-07T08:35:00.001-07:00

If you haven't heard our 2010 Canadian CF-18 Demo jet crashed in Lethbridge a few weeks ago. The pilot Capt. Brian Bews made it out safely with a few injuries but expects to back in the seat again soon. He'll make a full recovery but a timeline hasn't been established for his return. He made it out and that's the important news.

LATEST NEWS

We will still be having a CF-188 at our show and yes it WILL BE FLYING.

What's an air show without a little horsepower?

A big thanks goes out to our coordinator from the DND. He makes it happen.

SOUNDS of FREEDOM II

i told you.

Time to spread the word......

Where To Get Tickets Locally

2010-08-01T16:58:00.000-07:00

We are very fortunate to get some local support from individual businesses in the city to help us spread the word and sell tickets for the show.

No everyone uses the internet so local supporters have accepted our offer and decided to help sell tickets from their business.

These places beleive that by helping out we both can receive mutual benefit. Perfect, becuase we both do. Our Wing Off is a great example of partnerships.

If you need tickets please go to these local outlets and purchase your air show tickets. They are good for either day and will speed up the entry process at the gate. While you are there in the ticket outlet, take a look around and keep them in mind next time you need their product.

They also make our statement ring true when we say that money spent at the air show stays in the community. It's the perfect scenario.

Ticket outlets are pillars in the community and need your support as we need theirs.

Listen to Blackburn Radio and get a chance to win tickets.

Listen to AM800 and get a chance to win tickets.

Watch for our 2010 Commercial to air on A Channel.

Watch for our ads in the Windsor Star, In Business, Windsor Life, and the Cnawest publications all over Essex County.

We'll even be at the Military Muster in a few weeks.

We're all over. You won't miss us this year, that's for sure.

We are going to try and get some Veterans into the Lancaster Bomber for a trip around Essex County. For that we need donations and assisatance. Spread the word we are looking for donations to get these guys in the air. It'll make their weekend a little more special.

Sounds of Freedom II

You can't miss us this year.

KC-135 Stratotanker

2010-07-22T19:29:00.000-07:00

The Maine Air National Guard, also known as the "MAINEiacs," are providing KC-135 Stratotanker at our air show this year. They were around last year and have decided to stop by again. We're glad and appreciative to host these fine gentlemen again.

Serving with the United States Air Force since 1957, it is one of just six military fixed wing aircraft with over 50 years of continuous service with its original operator. Studies conclude many of these aircraft could be flown until 2040, with ages reaching 80 years before reaching lifetime flying hour limits.

This thing is also a large piece of machinery.

Take a 707 Jumbo Jet and turn it into a flying fuel truck with a "hose with wings" sticking out the back. In operation since 1957, the KC-135 Stratotanker is used primarily to re-fuel aircraft during flight. Modified KC-135s, however, serve as flying command posts, pure transport, electronic reconnaissance, and photo mapping craft.

We'll have some stairs available for the crowds to see inside of this tanker and walk around.

Don't miss the tour on this one. Tickets are on sale now.

Sounds of Freedom II

Let's Get Serious With Our Extra Special Guest

2010-07-19T13:38:00.001-07:00

The B-52 was America's first long-range, swept-wing heavy bomber. Now entering its sixth decade of service, it continues to be an important element of the U.S. Air Force bomber fleet. No bomber in U.S. military history has been called upon to remain operational as long as the B-52.
With a 185-foot wingspan, a length of more than 160 feet and a gross weight of more than 480,000 pounds, the B-52 earned the nickname BUFF, short for Big Ugly Fat Fellow.

Serious hardware

Crew: 5
Length: 159 ft 4 in (48.5 m)

Wingspan: 185 ft 0 in (56.4 m)
Height: 40 ft 8 in (12.4 m)
Wing area: 4,000 sq ft (370 m²)
Empty weight: 185,000 lbs (83,250 kg)
Loaded weight: 265,000 lb (120,000 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 488,000 lb (220,000 kg)
Powerplant: 8× Pratt & Whitney TF33 P-3/103 turbofans 17,000 lbs thrust each
Fuel capacity: 47,975 U.S. Gal

Maximum Speed: 560 kt (650 mph, 1,000 km/h)
Combat Radius: 4,480 mi
Service ceiling: 50,000 ft (15,000 m)
Rate of climb: 6,270 ft/min (31.85 m/s)

And it's coming to Windsor August 21 & 22.

Sounds of Freedom II

And then some..................

F15-C

2010-07-16T18:42:00.000-07:00

They're back.

The F-15C's from Idaho will be back for a return engagement this August in Windsor.

The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat. It is considered among the most successful modern fighters with over 100 aerial combat victories with no losses in dogfights. Following reviews of proposals, the USAF selected McDonnell Douglas' design in 1967 to meet the service's need for a dedicated air superiority fighter. The Eagle first flew in July 1972, and entered service in 1976. The F-15 is expected to be in service with the U.S. Air Force until 2025.

The pilots in 2009 were exceptional in showing the crowds(line ups were all day) a close up inside look at one of America's premier fighter aircraft. From what we were told, it was well worth the look.

Air superiority is coming to Windsor International Airport August 21 & 22.

Sounds of Freedom II

Pete, Dave and Kent,(Az too)

2010-07-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

The three aircraft flown today were all built in 1941 and have been in continuous service for over 60 years due to the care and support of their operators. Harvard #1 and Harvard #3 were both manufactured in Inglewood, California by North American Aviation (the same people who brought the world the P-51 Mustang fighter later in WWII). Harvard #2 is a true Canadian Harvard as it was built under license by Noorduyn Aviation in Montreal, Quebec.
The Harvard is a Pratt & Whitney powered, dual tandem seated, low winged metal monoplane (with the exception of fabric covered control surfaces). It's 600 HP supercharged engine directly drives a 9'1'' metal Hamilton Standard constant speed propeller. This combination of a radial engine and supersonic propeller tips give the Harvard it's distinctive roar.Originally used as advanced trainers by the RCAF for the purposes of night, formation, aerobatic, light bombing and gunnery (later rocketry), they earned the nicknames of 'The Pilot Maker' and 'Yellow Peril'. A common military saying was simply, "If you could fly a Harvard well, you could fly anything".

To not only see yellow Harvards against a blue sky billowing light smoke, but hear and feel their pulse is an incredible experience shared with airshow spectators. The combination of subsonic, transonic and supersonic sections of the prop release a roar that is the music of the Harvard.

Sounds Of Freedom II

Tell Your Friends.

MIlitary Muster August 14-15 2010

2010-07-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Southern Ontario Military Muster!
The Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village has scheduled a two-day military event to be held 14 -15 August 2010. This public two-day event will showcase the tools that past and current generations have used to protect our freedom. Although this focus is on WW2 and later, there will no doubt be reinactors from 1812 and WW1 as well. Planned events are drive-bys to exhibit the various vehicles with an MC describing the vehicle to the public. There will be tactical demonstrations from section to platoon to joint attacks. There will be an encampment for both allied and axis participants an opportunity to advertise your organization and there will be an active flea market. This is the first event of this kind in the area and with the proximity of our US allies it will prove to be quite an experience.
The CTMHV location is ideal for such an event. Situated on a 100 acre property with all the amenities to accommodate large crowds, the museum actually hosts a big Harley Owners' Group (HOG) weekend gathering, two car shows each year which draw up to 600 show vehicles and 3,500 plus spectators, in addition to flea markets, antique shows, auctions, rock 'n' roll outdoor shows and weekly cruise-ins. The site has a 50's Diner, gift shop, museum, historic village, stand alone bathroom facilities with hot showers, a village kitchen and a large covered pavillion, BBQ and bond fire facilities and a great camping site bounded by 14 wineries and many quaint bed and breakfast locations. The most recent car show in September 2009, included for the first time a host of WW2, Korea and modern military vehicles. The response was outstanding. It is as a result of the feedback received that we are organizing this international event.
The planning of this event and the choice of dates is no coincidence. Just one week after this event, just 15 miles away, the Windsor International Air Show will take place on August 21 and 22 and is expected to draw up to 40,000 spectators and showcase many aircraft from WW2 up to the present along with several other world class performers. This will be another opportunity to showcase hardware.
It is hoped that you will plan to participate in this event. If you require any further information please feel free to contact myself or Mickey Moulder.
Sincerely,
Mike Timoshyk

The Windsor International Air Show will be there selling tickets for the Air Show.

See you soon.

Sounds of Freedom are all over the place!

Slightly Different And Back in Time

2010-07-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

If barnstormers were the most exciting daredevils of the late 1920s, then wing walkers were the most extreme and intrepid individuals among them. Barnstormers were pilots and aerial stunt people who made a living entertaining crowds with breathtaking feats around the United States and Canada during the "Roaring 20s". While all wing walkers were barnstormers, not all barnstormers performed stunts outside the safety of a plane's cockpit. Wing walkers were the ultimate risk-takers of their day. As one promoter explained to his aerial stuntman: "Don't ever forget that we're both capitalizing on [the chance of your] sudden death." The entire wing walking phenomenon was founded on a bravado mentality. Every time a wing walker headed out to perform another stunt, his or her attitude became a game of one-upmanship with his or her rivals. The underlying and unspoken attitude among them was: "Can you top this?"

Back in the days......

(Taken from US Centennial of Flight)

Following the lead of great historic wing walkers like Ormer Locklear and Jessie Woods of the 1920s, Jenny performs both atop Ol’ Smokey as well as between the wings. Braving the unyielding winds, she performs both classic wing walking stunts (such as the top wing aerobatics and inverted pass), as well as more rare maneuvers (like the Daring javelin hang) in her amazing display with Pilot Walt.

The action is on the feild. Don't forget to see the static military aircraft you can actually get in to see and feel!

Sounds of Freedom II

Confirmations Are Starting

2010-07-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

Two F-16C's will be stopping in Windsor for a visit. Get the chance to take a look at these aircraft up close and meet the pilots who fly them.
The F-16 is a single-engined, supersonic, multi-role tactical aircraft. The F-16 was designed to be a cost-effective combat "workhorse" that can perform various kinds of missions and maintain around-the-clock readiness. It is much smaller and lighter than its predecessors, but uses advanced aerodynamics and avionics including the first use of a relaxed static stability/fly by wire flight control system, to achieve enhanced maneuver performance. Highly nimble, the F-16 can pull 9-g maneuvers and can reach a maximum speed of over Mach 2.

Sounds of Freedom II

Air Show Time!

2010-07-06T06:03:00.000-07:00

Rob Reider
So much in demand on the air show circuit we had to book him before he got home from the 2009 show!
We are grateful and pleased to have one of the air show circuits premier announcers describe the accurate historical fact along with color commentary the pilots and aircraft who are the real deal in aviation.
Watching the aircraft is one thing. Listening brings the action alive.
Check Rob out at his web site and see for yourself how hard he works to bring the excitement of an air show up close and personal.
http://www.robreider.com/

Continental Air Shows
Forty years ago, Continental Air Show Productions brought the first integrated sound/communications/air boss/announcer platform to the air show industry. Owner Bill Bordeleau, an award-winning air show announcer, recognized the need for consistent, high-quality public address sound over long show lines. Now, in the 21st Century, Bill has reinvented, from the ground up, the newest air show command center in the industry. New radios and antennas, new headsets, new intercom, new speakers and subwoofers for your VIP area, and the largest trailer-top deck in the industry make Continental Air Show Productions an extraordinary asset.
In addition to the nearly one mile of show line sound system coverage, CASP was the first in the industry to utilize dual microwave transmission systems to connect additional speakers to extend the sound on the air show grounds.

We’ve combined two of the best in the industry to bring the action, sounds, feel and historical significance to the Windsor International Airport.

feel the roar…..hear the history….excite your senses…..
Be on the field, August 21 & 22, 2010 for the Sounds of Freedom II.
The best place to be for the family all weekend.

Photo courtesy of Eric Dumigan http://www.airic.ca/

Sponsor Our Veterans

2010-06-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

The Windsor International Air Show and its' volunteers are dedicated to preserving and remembering the significant sacrifices our Veterans made and continue to do so, even in this modern day.

Our small thanks consists of giving them the honour and VIP status at our show.

Please help us to show them their sacrifice for Peace and Freedom is appreciated and deserving of a firm handshake and at minimum, a weekend of fun. Here's how the public can help us out and show their support.

Go to a local ticket outlet in Windsor (see web site) and purchase a Youth Ticket, or purchase one online. Mail that ticket to;

Windsor International Air Show

PO Box 2093

Tilbury ON

N0P 2L0

Give us your name or someone who you are in remembrance of, and we will place that name on a thank you roll. We will post that list on our web site to let the Vets know who cares and appreciates their sacrifices. It's a small price to give and show appreciation for Freedom.

It will treat our Vets before, during, and well after the show. We consider it thanking them, One At a Time.

Remember, the money spent at our air show, stays in the community.

Royal Air Force

2010-06-22T10:34:00.001-07:00

Yes it's big, heavy and it's coming to Windsor!

The Boeing E-3 Sentry is an American military airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft based on the Boeing 707 that provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications, to the United Kingdom. The four CFM 56 engines have reverse thrust, and are efficient and quiet. Given sufficient runway length, the aircraft can stay airborne for over 10 hours. This time can be extended by air-air refuelling: the E-3D has both “drogue and probe” and “boom receptacle” AAR systems, and can accept fuel from most US and UK/NATO tankers. The main limitation to airborne time is crew fatigue.

The main sensor of the E-3D Sentry is the AN/APY-2 surveillance radar, built by Northrop-Grumman. The multimode radar has both pulse doppler (PD) and basic pulse modes, which allow it to detect targets out to 300 nautical miles. The PD radar allows look-down capability, over all terrains, out to the radar horizon (which is 210 miles at the normal cruising altitude of 29,000 ft). One aircraft flying at 30,000 feet has a radar coverage of 312,000 square kilometers. Three aircraft in overlapping orbits can provide complete radar coverage of all of Central Europe. The pulse radar is used in the “Beyond the Horizon (BTH)” mode and therefore avoids ground clutter. It is also used to detect shipping out to the radar horizon when used. The radar system was upgraded in 1999 to “Radar System Improved Package” (RSIP) standard, which gives detection of smaller stealthy targets.

Get the chance to see this aircraft land at Windsor International Airport. This is a rare visit and our Volunteers are looking forward to hosting the RAF this year.

2010-06-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Last year the Air Show treated our local Veterans to a weekend of fun and thanks for their sacrifices they gave so many years ago. We received so many thanks and sincere accolades, we decided five minutes after the show that 2010 was going to do the same if not more. More because we may have missed some. We had stories of Veterans hitch hiking to the show and some came as far as Ottawa and Kitchener. We were very honored to hear the thanks and when you go to the Windsor Historical Society web page,(http://www.windsorhistoricalsociety.com/) you can click on the photo page and visit that day and see the smiles across their faces. They had a good time and were very well received.
Guess what? It's going to happen again this year.
With the Windsor Historical Society lining them up, we are again giving them front line seating at the best Chalet we have to offer, for free, to be a part of the show and enjoy the weekend.
The vintage aircraft are the real deal and flown by pilots who truly know what they meant and did for Freedom.
So as a special offer we are asking the public to sponsor a Vet at the show. Go to one of the local ticket outlets above and purchase a Youth Ticket. Mail that ticket to,

Windsor International Air Show
Fathers Day Program
PO Box 2093
Tilbury ON N0P 2L0

Include your Name, email and home address. We will be placing all names on an honor list on our web site. Dedicate it to your Dad or even a Vet you knew. We want to show all our Vets that the community supports them and appreciates them still after all these years and the younger ones are given the respect for their sacrifices as well.

The money will be used to support the Vets, before, during and long after the show. This way we can make sure every Vet has his day, even if it's for a few hours. We don't skimp on hospitality. Nothing but the best. because they went through so much so we don't have to.

Remember, every dollar spent at our Air Show, stays local and helps our community .

See you soon.
OPS Desk

ps
Confirmations for aircraft are coming daily. Don't miss out.

THird Part of the 2009 DVD

2010-06-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

429 Squadron RCAF Flies The Canadian CC-117 Globemaster III

2010-06-11T06:57:00.000-07:00

Rapid, reliable and flexible, the strategic and tactical CC-177 is equipped with advanced digital avionics, has a maximum range of approximately 5,500 nautical miles and can carry a payload of up to 160,000 pounds (72, 727 kilograms) due to its four engines (Pratt & Whitney 2040 series) that produce 40,440 pounds (18, 343 kilograms) of thrust.
The CC-177 Globemaster III is used for a wide range of strategic and tactical missions for Canada’s Air Force and only requires a crew of three: pilot, co-pilot and loadmaster. Pilots can fly the CC-177 wearing night-vision goggles, which provides a significant tactical advantage when flying into hostile territory. It can also take off and land on unpaved runways as short as 1,067 metres (3, 500 feet) and as narrow as 27.4 metres (90 feet) by day or by night.

429 Transport Squadron has flown a variety of aircraft throughout its history, although the massive CC-177 Globemaster III is the only airframe the squadron flies today.

See it live at the Windsor International Air Show August 21 & 22.

Second Part of 2009 DVD

2010-06-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

2009 Windsor Air Show Footage Footage

2010-06-06T13:25:00.000-07:00

2009 Century of Flight Year was a great show. We sold quite a few complete DVD's and gave out tickets with it as well for the 2010 air show. I'll be putting them here so you can watch the footage from last year on YouTube. We can't get all of it in one video so I've broken them down into three. You can still order a complete DVD of the 2009 Air Show. 2010 is promising to be even bigger.
Here's what air shows are all about.

CF-18 Hornet Demo Jet

2010-06-01T15:49:00.000-07:00

In 2010, the Canadian Navy celebrates its 100th anniversary. The centennial will be a momentous milestone both for the Canadian Navy and for Canada’s history. The naval centennial slogan “Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit” reflects the desire to honour the past, celebrate Canadian Navy achievements and recognize the Navy’s obligation to Canada. In tribute to the Canadian Navy, the Air Force will adopt the Canadian Navy Centennial as it’s theme for the 2010 Demonstration Hornet’s air show season. The demo jet’s tails have been especially painted to commemorate this important milestone.

The Jet

A versatile, world-class fighter aircraft, the supersonic CF-18 Hornet can engage both ground and aerial targets. Its twin engines generate enough thrust to lift 24 full-size pick-up trucks off the ground.

As the Canadian Air Force's frontline multi-role fighter, the CF-18 is used for air defence, air superiority, tactical support, training, aerobatic demonstration and aerospace testing and evaluation.

CF-18 Demo Pilot
Capt Brian Bews began his flying career in 1995 in Okotoks, Alberta. After receiving his private pilot’s license, he went to Mount Royal College in Calgary and graduated with a Diploma in Aviation with a commercial pilot’s license and multi-engine instrument rating. He enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1999.

Capt Bews attended the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and received his wings on the BAE Hawk jet in 2003. He was selected to be a fighter pilot and went to 419 Tactical Fighter (Training) Squadron in Cold Lake, Alberta to conduct Fighter Lead In Training on the CT-155 Hawk. In 2004 Capt Bews finally realized his dream to fly the CF-18 Hornet while at 410 Tactical Fighter (Operational Training) Squadron in Cold Lake, Alberta where he remained for his first operational tour on the CF-18 Hornet with 416 Tactical Fighter Squadron, followed by a tour with 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron.

In 2008, Capt Bews was posted to 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron based in Bagotville, Quebec. He has accumulated over 1400 hours in the military, of which 1200 of those are in the CF-18 Hornet.

Capt Bews grew up in Eatonia, Saskatchewan and spends his free time riding motorcycles; he is also a huge fan of motorsports of all kinds.

Check them both out August 21 & 22, 2010 at the Windsor International Airport.

(Taken From Canadian Department of Defense Web Site)

The Snowbirds Commercial

2010-05-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

From May 12 to 16, 2010 the Canadian Forces Snowbirds were based in the city of Brandon, Man. to help celebrate two auspicious events: On May 13, the squadron began the 2010 season with a bang, so to speak. The nine twinkling lights of the Snowbirds flew over Canadian Forces Base Shilo to the sound of artillery canons firing as the local community welcomed the Memorial Cup - Canada's junior hockey championship trophy. It was a festive atmosphere as spectators and Snowbirds, alike, were entertained by the rockin modern beats of the Air Command Band from Winnipeg, Man.

The Memorial Cup, originally dedicated to servicemen who died in the first world war, was rededicated at this event to honour all men and women of Canada's military that have died in the service of their country. In a classy follow-up, the nine plane formation flew overhead a second time in a missing man formation - a maneuver traditionally performed to honour those that have passed away.

The same cup that is now in Windsor, again.
Congratulations to the Spits!

Brazilian Footage

2010-05-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

Here's some really good footage of the Smoke Squadron performing. They fly some really great lines and are an excellent show to watch.

Brazilian Air Force Smoke Squadron

2010-05-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

This is one of the biggest releases in the industry this year.

The Windsor International Air Show is the first stop on a short North American Tour for the Brazilian Air Force. We are pleased and fortunate to host this military aerobatic team as they travel a great distance to be a part of our show. They represent their country as professional and highly skilled aviators that we welcome to our air show.

Their Goals
- To stimulate and develop vocations and aeronautical mentality;
- To valorize the Brazilian Air Force and the sense of nationalism;
- To express the devotion and professionalism of the Brazilian Air Force members;
- To demonstrate the high degree of training as well as the skills of the Brazilian pilots;
- To ascertain the quality of the Brazilian aeronautical industry products;
- To contribute for a higher integration among the Brazilian Air Force and other Armed Forces;
- To stimulate a closer contact among the civilian and military segments involved in the aeronautical activity;
- To represent the Brazilian Air Force abroad as a diplomatic instrument;
- To disseminate the Social Communication policy of the Aeronautics Command; and
- To take part in the process of national integration, assuring the presence of the Brazilian Air Force in the events carried out all over the country.

We are making an official press release all over North America. Our Air Show will be an immense production this year, stay tuned, and tell your friends as this year is definitely going to be a memorable one.

Get to meet these great pilots during our Wing Off Night, Friday August 20, 2010. From what I hear the restaurants are planning new countermeasures to be the "NO Bull, Top Gun, Best of the Best Chicken Wing Cook Off" winners. The top chicken contenders will have the dubious title of having the best International Air Show Wings. That's just the way it is.

Don't miss it!

Chalet Tickets

2010-04-25T14:53:00.001-07:00

We are going to be releasing the Chalet Tickets very soon. The corporate purchases are almost finished and we will be offering the tickets to our Members list first. By signing up to the Members list you will get the first opportunity at the Member Price. The Member price will only be available for a limited period.

By becoming a member you will have the opportunity to Win a VIA Rail package which consists of a VIA Rail Trip, a $500 Gas Card From Pioneer Petroleum, and a Two Night Hotel Stay, courtesy of the Air Show.

And, as an extra bonus, every ticket holder in the Chalets, will receive one chance to win a Flat Screen Television.

If you purchase the VIP Ticket you will receive the Friday Night Wing Off Tickets as well. All the performers will be there, why not you?

Membership has it's rewards.

Getting Home

2010-04-16T10:29:00.001-07:00

Who would have thought just getting home after a mission was so easy? The skill and concentration on an easy day is quite demanding let alone throw in some robust weather. Being able to land a powerhouse F18 on a runway takes immense measurable skill or any military aircraft for that matter.
Take a look see at these two videos I was sent a link to. The idea of landing is a simple concept. It's when you make the landing spot a movable object that makes it, well, interesting but the skill and focus needed is unmatched in any field.
Take a look and see.

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=4gGMI8d3vLs

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=S0yj70QbBzg

Anything else is pretty tame in comparison. Nice job guys. It's great to know this kind of skill exists.

Gearing Up!

2010-04-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

This year is looking really great. We've got a great line up and some really fantastic static aircraft coming up to visit. Again as in last year there is going to be plenty to do.
The chance to be front and centre is taking on a whole new meaning this year. Look forward to the Cf-18's strafing the ground in an amazing pyrotechnic display.
We've got an old favourite flying in the show this year. See the Lancaster fly in our show and get the opportunity to get inside this magnificent piece of history
A Spitfire is going full on aerobatic for us piloted by Rick Volker. remember him? He's the one with the aggressive Sukhoi demonstration last year that defied gravity at times.
The Harvards, Jacquie B and we have a wing walker from American Barnstorming doing her thing on the wing.
Mark Kirsch, the strongman may just show us how he parks aircraft. By himself, with a little bit of green human powered technology.
A lot of these acts have been made possible by a grant from Celebrate Ontario. They saw the enormous potential in our show and we are glad to show off our Province to the rest of North America.

Don't forget to become a member.
Stay tuned........

Updates and More

2010-03-05T06:58:00.001-08:00

Updates and more.
We're changing the way we take in information just a little bit. We have been getting a lot of emails and requests about volunteering and information regarding the 2010 Air Show. Rest assured we are updating the 2010 web site and should be available in the next week or so.
The most notable change is the email blasts we will be doing. We have had to use a separate contact for the Membership we have added. The volunteer email was getting too crowded and we need to update the ones who want information on what's happening along with the blog.
So if you want to volunteer and haven't done so click on the link and sign up.
If you want to become a member for discounted tickets and first choice on Chalet seating then the membership sign up is for you.
VIA Rail has sponsored us again, and by signing on as a member you will have a chance to win that trip for two at the air show this year. Awesome.
See you soon.

2010 is Here

2010-01-26T16:26:00.001-08:00

We're getting ready to prepare the Windsor Airport for an all out assault this year. You can expect a bigger, louder and more intense show. We have some regulars coming back and of course our Snowbirds are ready and more than anxious to get back in the air over Windsor. In the next month we will be making some announcements as to who is coming and how you can get involved in this community project. We want and need local vendors and suppliers to get involved as we are promoting our area all across North America.

We can only make this show one way, big.

Stay tuned.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2009-12-22T05:13:00.001-08:00

I'd like to wish all of our volunteers a Merry Christmas and thank you for your support.

A special Christmas Wish goes out to all of our Veterans, past, present and to those who choose to defend our Freedom and quality of life on this day.

Without them we would not be able to enjoy this season as it was meant to be.

Peace and Prosperity.

See you next year for Sounds of Freedom II.

Bigger, Better, and a Little Noisy

2009-12-15T09:12:00.001-08:00

The Windsor International Air Show commercial, shot by Bill Reilly, took first place at the Las Vegas convention this year. No small feat considering the competition has been around for years. This is a significant milestone, not just for the show, but for the area as well. Many eyes are starting to focus on our show as we had amazing success for our first venture.
We have had inquiries for tickets, rooms and insider secrets to next year's show already. Visitors came from all over the continent and we can expect much more next year.
All we have to do is do it all over, again. Only this time bigger.
In the next couple of months we are going to be confirming many aircraft and what will be happening at the 2010 show. Dynamic, exciting and very noisy are the key elements. Add in more audience participation, and well you get my message.
The veterans had a wonderful time at the last show and we are going to build on that. Many veterans asked if we could do it again and the answer is the same. Same place, same station.
This one is going to be memorable. Don't miss this chance to be up close and personal. Meet the veterans and get a chance to thank them, personally. We are, one at a time.
Our starting line up of partners in 2010's show;
Canadian Historical Aircraft Association
Windsor International Airport
Windsor Flying Club
Military Muster
Canadian Transportation Museum
Canadian Military
US Military

Want to be a part of our show?
Expect the unexpected.

ps. The DVD is out!

2009 Merchandise Available

2009-09-14T13:55:00.001-07:00

The 2009 T-Shirts for the Century of Flight are still available but once they are gone they are gone.
The CF-18 Century Hornet Shirt was so popular we have asked permission to make some more of these available and they are now available in ladie's sizes.

Remember this aircraft will never be seen flying again after this year. It is to be mothballed and placed in a museum. Too bad because it was such a gorgeous sight to watch fly and having it immortalized on a t-shirt is a gift to have or give for Christmas.
We also have some Challenge Coins and there isn't many left. These were minted for the 100th Anniversary of Flight and the Coins will never be made again.

We also have the Windsor International Air Show picture CD coming out. It has tons of pictures capturing some of the best flyers on the planet along with the Hornet Century Paint scheme, it's a must have.

Just wait for this one....
We have a High Definition DVD coming out in December. Please PRE-BUY this one. It is a collection of the air show with arrivals, show days and departures all covered in eye watering colour like you have never seen. This is the best of the show captured and since it is the 100th Anniversary of Flight, this one should be in your collection. Get it in time for Christmas because after the Holidays the price will go up.
Scroll down the side for your items on the secure PayPal site.
Don't miss out on these items, becuase it's in very limited quantities.

Thank You To The Spectators

2009-09-05T05:14:00.000-07:00

On behalf of the Windsor International Air Show and the volunteers, I would like to thank the spectators for coming out and supporting our show. It was a long year and a half of preparation and work, however it turned out to be an absolute stunning success.
We have received congratulations from all over North America.
I have been flooded with emails so much it has taken a week to answer them all. If you watched the show from outside the airport, we are elated that the spectators paid attention to the aircraft. We had reports of people all around the airport and some watching from nearby shopping centres that were on the flight line. We got your attention.
The Snowbirds are an absolute marvel to watch as they zip across the sky. They never get boring nor do the spectators get tired of watching them.
We hit our goals by providing the veterans with a weekend of enjoyment and hospitality for which they are entitled to, not just recognition, but camaraderie, respect and acknowledgement for their time efforts and patriotism. Our Veterans enjoyed the show immensely and we would do it again in a heartbeat just to see the fun and smiles emerge if at least for one weekend. I believe the spectators who met these brave men and women, enriched the lives of not only the vets, but learned a little history while enjoying the show. I say these are our Vets because we should take the ownership and the responsibility to never forget and pass the history down to the youth with all respect and dignity befitting fallen soldiers memories.
The service men and women in the current forces were also treated to a VIP weekend in Windsor and as they were leaving, many asked if they could be invited back as our volunteers catered to them and showed the hospitality deserving of their job. Meeting these pilots became a thrill of a lifetime for many spectators. Seeing the inside of these behemoth machines gave many an indescribable awe as they looked, touched and took pictures of some fantastic machinery.
We gave the Veterans the thanks, a few meals and the opportunity to watch some impressive machinery in action from the old to the newer technology. We shouldn't forget, that just because an aircraft can streak across the sky, it still has to have someone doing the job that gives us all our rights and freedoms.
Without the Veterans of the past, present and future, our society could never say we have freedoms. Freedom comes at a cost and the service men and women are there to make sure we all have the choices, rights and freedoms, we enjoy today.
We thanked the Vets, but it can never be enough. It was a show celebrating 100 years of Powered Flight in Canada and we think we hit a home run. I can just imagine the next 100.
We hope to see you next year, bigger and better.

First Arrivals

2009-08-28T03:34:00.001-07:00

They started arriving. What an awesome sight as Windsor was again playing host to an Air Show.
The A Channel, CBC News, Today's Windsor and Blackburn Radio were there for the beginning of the biggest event in Essex County this weekend.
The First to arrive was the Kc135. Good thing because parking is at a premium this weekend at YQG Airport. The first one is always the special announcement they are coming. An hour later two Snowbirds, F-15's, our own CF-18 Hornet, Mike Goulian and then the 9 formation Snowbirds flew over the airport. If Windsor hadn't heard of the Air show, then the display of the CF-18 sure woke them up.
The F-15's from Mountain Home AFB flew over and did a break over the field. Awesome to see and they announced their arrival with flying grace to let us know who's in town. Pete McLeod, Canada's Red Bull pilot came in, Jacquie "B" Warda, and the Manfred Radius.
Mike Goulian decided to get airborne to burn of a little fuel and boy did he ever.
The hardest part of the show was making sure we are working while being awed by fantastic displays. Then as if almost out of nowhere the Sea Dragon Helicopter from the US Navy touched down with a landing that had the ground handlers cheering. The Sea Dragon was taxied with an escort truck and the driver reported having to stand on the brakes because the rotor wash just pushed the truck. It is big and powerful and the sound was deafening......
A Huey from Andrews Air Force Base planted itself on the grass with it's very distinctive sound.
Rick Volker and then a P51 Mustang touched down. Activity was heavy and exciting as only an Air Show can bring. The crowds were lined up outside the airport to get a glimpse of these aircraft and the kids were thrilled at the sights.
These machines are awesome to see, yet the men and women who fly them are the personalities to meet. Every single one of them was glad to arrive in Windsor.
The excitement is being throttled up at the Airport, so come on out and meet these pilots and get a chance to actually get inside of one of these behemoths.

Tickets are very affordable and the entertainment is priceless.
Don't be on the outside looking in, it's just not the same.
Today should see more of the same landing at the airport so get your tickets now and come early for the best spots on the field.

Chris Hadfield

2009-08-26T04:50:00.001-07:00

Sometime on Saturday the Canadian Astronaut Chris Hadfield will be joining us at our show.
He is scheduled to take a check ride in the F-86 Hawk One Sabre after the flying show, as rumour has it he will be demonstrating at the Toronto Air Show.
You can find out more about him at,
http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronauts/biohadfield.asp

Just to make it a little more noteworthy, Chris will be celebrating his 50th Birthday while he is here in Windsor.

Don't be on the outside looking in, it's just not the same.

Tentative Show Time Schedule

2009-08-25T05:55:00.000-07:00

We have drafted up a show performance schedule. This schedule WILL BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE right up until the show begins. Due to weather, mechanical and other problems out of our control there is no guarantee the performer will go on as scheduled, however we will do our best.
The Sunday show only will have the OPP Golden Helmets performing on the runways at YQG. There will also be aircraft leaving during the day which makes them part of the show and extends the performance.
The aircraft buffs know that is a perfect day to catch departure pictures of the aircraft.
Please be patient coming into the airport with traffic. Free shuttle buses will be running but not on specified schedules. They will do a bump and run service which is when they are full they move.
It's going to be an awesome show

Our Commercial Showing Daily

2009-08-21T10:44:00.000-07:00

Playing Daily on the A Channel!

Another reason to CELEBRATE!!

2009-08-20T10:27:00.001-07:00

BUDAPEST, Hungary – American Michael Goulian won a thrill-filled Red Bull Air Race in Budapest on Thursday while Britain’s Paul Bonhomme grabbed second place and knocked Austrian Hannes Arch out of the championship lead in a thrilling battle over the Danube River in front of a national holiday crowd of 650,000. American Kirby Chambliss grabbed third place, which dropped Arch into fourth and off the podium for the first time in over a year. German rookie Matthias Dolderer took a career-best fifth place.
“It feels amazing,” Goulian said after clocking a winning time of 1:12.51 on the 6.6km course on a scorching hot day with temperatures over 30 degrees. It was his first career victory and moved him up to 8th place in the overall championship with 18 points. “This has been four years in the making. It’s been so hard to get the right machine, to get the engine working the right way. After four years of hard work this is amazing. I knew we had an airplane that could do it. It’s a great win.”

Mike's time is right here, right now and the air show industry considers him the finest available.
YES he will be here come August 29 & 30 2009.
Don't miss out on Mike's performance, it's a thriller......Catch The Experience!

It's Happening At YQG

2009-08-16T17:23:00.001-07:00

The Windsor International Air Show promises to be one of the biggest shows in Ontario. We have over 60 aircraft attending with some of the best pilots in their field.
It's the 100th Anniversary of Celebration of Aviation and starting on August 27, it's going to start making noise and the value we are giving our spectators has no comparison.
We have the Canadian and US Air Force solidly supporting our show and boy are they bringing some hardware with them.
Let's not forget the Auto Show inside the Air Show and the Antique Military Vehicles coming out in full force support.
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE SUPPORT!
The Air Show will be the biggest attraction in Windsor to end the summer. There is none like it nor any comparison.
Just try to go anywhere in Essex County without hearing us. It just won't happen.
We have special guests like Chris Hadfield attending. We have National Magazine coverage.
We have the Discovery Channel doing a show segment. Yes, you read that right.
Aircraft from all over North America are asking to be a part of our show.
We've worked hard to bring the best and now it's almost upon us.
Get ready for the news, they're back!
Don't be standing on the outside looking in, YQG is the place to be on August 29 & 30!

KC-135R Tanker

2009-08-13T15:36:00.000-07:00

Ok this one delivers. Seriously.
The crew from the 101 ARW in Maine will land in Windsor for the Air Show. Spectators will be allowed to get inside walk around and see some very exciting details inside the aircraft.
Just another reason to be on the field.
The KC-135 Stratotanker provides the core aerial refueling capability for the United States Air Force and has excelled in this role for more than 50 years. This unique asset enhances the Air Force's capability to accomplish its primary missions of Global Reach and Global Power. It also provides aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft. The KC-135 is also capable of transporting litter and ambulatory patients using patient support pallets during aeromedical evacuations.
Four turbofans, mounted under 35-degree swept wings, power the KC-135 to takeoffs at gross weights up to 322,500 pounds (146,285 kilograms). Nearly all internal fuel can be pumped through the tanker's flying boom, the KC-135 's primary fuel transfer method. A special shuttlecock-shaped drogue, attached to and trailing behind the flying boom, may be used to refuel aircraft fitted with probes. An operator stationed in the rear of the plane controls the boom. A cargo deck above the refueling system can hold a mixed load of passengers and cargo. Depending on fuel storage configuration, the KC-135 can carry up to 83,000 pounds (37,648 kilograms) of cargo.
It's a serious aircraft for a serious show.

Sounds of Freedom. Coming this month.

The Challenge

2009-08-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

It's the challenge of the year happening at the Windsor International Airport on August 15, 2009.
The winner will get bragging rights for the next full year. The challengers have measured up and fear no opponent in this battle.
$2 dollar parking fee with a canned good for an entrance fee to support the Goodfellows. Come on out enjoy some wings from some of Windsor's best "winged" restaurants.
Hey, it's aviation related and we will be selling Gala Tickets and Air Show tickets for the August 29&30 air show. The line up for the show is immense. They must have heard something.
We will have a table set up inside the CH2A hangar playing some video of the performers coming to our airport. Get a glimpse of what they do the best, fly.
Rides will be available.

The Wing Off is going to be tasty and challenging, not only for the competitors but the hot wings could produce some excitement all it's own.
It's all part of the fun happening at Your Quick Getaway this sumer. Fun and education for the whole family. Don't miss out. Seen our billboards?
Wait for the commercials.
At the Air Show, let's not forget to mention the bounce castles, Canadian Recruiting Office complete with camo face painting, and vendors from the local community. Vintage war birds, and the list is endless.
Check out the possibilities of our Armed Forces.
Say hi to some of the veterans that made sure we have our freedoms here in Canada, today.
Vintage cars on display with each show day being different. Military vehicles like we have never seen before.

Watching from the outside is just not the same.
Sounds of Freedom.... soon, Catch The Experience.

Time For Some Noise

2009-07-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

The F-15 Eagle is a twin-engine, all-weather tactical fighter designed to gain and maintain air superiority in aerial combat. Developed for the USAF it first flew in July 1972, and is one of the most recognized modern fighters. The F-15 is expected to remain in service until 2025. Despite originally being envisaged as a pure air superiority aircraft, the design proved flexible enough that an all-weather strike derivative, the F-15E Strike Eagle, was later developed, and entered service in 1989.
The F-15 in all air forces had an air-to-air combined record of 104 kills to 0 losses in air combat as of February 2008. To date, no air superiority versions of the F-15 (A/B/C/D models) have ever been shot down by enemy forces.

The Windsor International Airshow welcomes the pilots and techs from the 390 FS out of Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho.

Can you hear it yet? Sounds of Freedom.

T-34

2009-07-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

The Beechcraft T-34 Mentor is a propeller-driven, single-engined, military trainer aircraft derived from the Beechcraft Model 35 Bonanza. The earlier versions of the T-34, dating from around the late 1940s to the 1950s, were piston engined. These were eventually succeeded by the upgraded T-34C Turbo-Mentor, powered by a turboprop engine. The T-34 remains in service almost six decades after it was first designed.
The pilots will be coming from the VT-2 Squadron.

CT-142 Dash 8

2009-07-22T06:59:00.000-07:00

Navigators from around the world come to Canada to train on the CT-142 Dash-8. At the Canadian Forces Air Navigation School (CFANS), this twin turboprop aircraft is used to teach students aerial navigation and tactics.
Designed and produced in Canada, the CT-142 is a conversion of the popular Dash-8 airliner. It was adapted for navigation training by manufacturer Bombardier Inc. in the late 1980s.
Recent software modifications on the CT-142 allow students to operate their own Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS). The aircraft also features a new Tactical Display System that superimposes information on the students’ radar displays.
At CFANS, located at 17 Wing in Winnipeg, dozens of Canadian and foreign students train on CT-142s each year. CFANS has welcomed navigators from Singapore, Korea, New Zealand, Germany, Norway, The Netherlands and Australia.

Come and take a peek and say hi to the pilots.

Don't be on the outside looking in, it's just not the same.

T-45 Goshawk

2009-07-21T05:29:00.001-07:00

The Windsor International Air Show is starting to heat up.
Two T-45 Goshawks will be coming up for static display from the VT-86 Sabrehawks located in Pensacola Florida.

At the heart of the Navy T45 training system is the two-seat, single-engine T-45 Goshawk. The aircraft has a wingspan of 30.1 feet, a length of 39.3 feet, a tail height of 13.5 feet and a gross takeoff weight of 13,636 pounds. The U.S. Navy's T-45 Goshawk is powered by a Rolls-Royce Adour F405-RR-401 engine producing 5,845 pounds of thrust. Designed to excel in the rigorous environment of naval aviation training, it has been fatigue-tested successfully to demonstrate a service life that exceeds the required 14, 400 flight-hours.
Described by instructor-pilots who fly it as "eminently forgiving," the T-45 is the only jet trainer designed to land routinely at sink rates of greater than 700 feet per minute, which are required for aircraft carrier approach landings. The Boeing team has continually upgraded the aircraft with features such as leading-edge wing slats for better low-speed performance, high-gain nosewheel steering for safer ground handling, and a reinforced composite stabilator with increased span for better pitch control.
In the 16 years since they entered service in 1992, T-45s have logged over 800,000 flight-hours and made over 50,000 arrested carrier landings. Approximately 3,500 student aviators from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and a number of foreign militaries have earned their wings in the T-45.
The Windsor International Air Show welcomes the Sabrehawks.

P51 Mustang

2009-07-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

We have another edition to our show. Vintage Wings of Canada will be bringing down their Mustang and will be flying in our show.
The VWC Mustang Mk IV is painted in period markings of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 442 Squadron, which flew the last Allied operational fighter mission of the entire European theatre of the Second World War - flying fighter cover for naval operations near the Channel Islands the day after VE Day.
We would like to thank Michael Potter of Vintage Wings for bringing this exceptional aircraft to our show.
It is truly a welcome edition.

CANADA DAY!

2009-07-01T05:16:00.000-07:00

It's a time to enjoy the day and reflect on where we are as a country. It's a day to celebrate our independence and Freedom all across this land. Yes I'm somewhat patriotic. Canada is no doubt the absolute best country in the world and the land is absolutely gorgeous.
We also have to make sure we thank the service men and women who defend our rights and will stand up for those rights willingly. The Snowbirds, Skyhawks, CF18 Demo pilot, and the technicians that keep them flying, are all a shining example of our military and what they represent. At any time they can get a call and be shipped into hostile territory and in the meantime we as a country wake up everyday and continue on as we normally would.
We all enjoy our personal rights guaranteed by our Charter of Right and Freedoms.
Let's not forget or take for granted how they came about.
Canada is the best and Happy Birthday or Confederation, whichever you choose.

THANKS GUYS! You know who you are.

Rick Volker

2009-06-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

Rick Volker shows his aerobatic skills in a Russian made Sukhoi SU-26M. Awesome.

Rick Volker 60 second promo from Eric Wobschall on Vimeo.

Rick Volker Talon 2007 from Eric Wobschall on Vimeo.

Harvard Aerobatic Team

2009-06-25T06:18:00.000-07:00

The Canadian Harvard Aerobatic Team. This flying tribute to the veterans of World War II has been flying for many years with decades of experience behind them, and continue to astound crowds around North America.

Mike Goulian

2009-06-23T17:37:00.000-07:00

If you ever had a chance to see poetry in flight this is your opportunity. Mike gives it his all in every performance and you will be amazed at his flight dynamics. I can't say enough except watch the videos.
I'm using a link to his page so you can see his crisp, clean and amazng performance. Click on his air show video and remember he will be here in Windsor.
http://mikegoulian.com/videos-new

Jacquie B

2009-06-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

Jacquie B Flies a Pitts Special and her moto is Wild Women Do!
Take a look....

Pete McLeod

2009-06-19T05:22:00.000-07:00

You've heard of him because of Red Bull. Take a look at what Pete has been doing to get himself to the top of the heap, literally, in the world. Becoming a Red Bull participant is no small feat.

And Again. The fun has just begun........

Manfred Radius

2009-06-18T04:30:00.001-07:00

It's time to introduce everyone to the performers coming to Windsor. Let's get this show in the air with manfred radius.

Volunteer Meeting

2009-06-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

We have our fist real informational Volunteer meeting this week

Location
Oakwood Comunity Centre
2520 Cabana Road
Windsor ON
519.966.6065

Directions:
From Huron Church Road, turn East onto Cabana Rd, turn North on Northway Avenue (its the second street on the left).

Time:
Wed. June 17 2009
7:00 pm (19:00)
Please be on time so we can get more ground covered. Thanks!

Topic:
General Meet and greet info session. Lots to learn!

Bring a pad and pen to get all the info.

We have received some applications, however the email addresses were bounced back at us. If you have not received a reply to your application, please come out as we will have some extra applications available.

Now that the Red Bull races are behind, we have a big task ahead of us as we prepare to bring back an air show to Windsor Airport. It's not small by any means.
If you can't make it email angierobinet@gmail.com
We will be taking some notes of information, however it is imperative to attend every meeting.
We understand priority, yet we must keep you informed with procedures and protocols, as after all, it is an airport.
So much information to learn!

There's a lot to do and we are counting down the days.........
See you there!

Army UH-60 Blackhawk

2009-05-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

We have confirmation of another visitor to our show. The Blackhawk will be on static display so getting up close is a real treat.
The UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-bladed, twin-engine, medium-lift utility helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. Sikorsky submitted the S-70 design for the United States Army's Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System (UTTAS) competition in 1972. The Army designated the prototype as the YUH-60A and selected the Black Hawk as the winner of the program in 1976, after a fly-off competition with the Boeing Vertol YUH-61. The UH-60A entered service with the Army in 1979, to replace the UH-1 Iroquois as the Army's tactical transport helicopter.
We're beginning to pick up some steam and blogging will be a little more intense as we get closer to the show date.
Parking, tickets, and special days are coming up. We are teaming up with some local restaurants so keep an eye open to the blog and web site. We will be advising you of critical updates, like parking, timing and a last special weekend to get special discounted pricing on tickets as well as t-shirts.
Don't forget the Gala. Tickets are selling well for the event, and it promises to be a real flash bang event.

Amazingly Affordable

2009-05-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

A recent article in the LA Times describes in pretty good detail how Air Shows are attracting record crowds even with the current economy. The International Council of Air Shows has seen the typical pattern in past recessions. People want value and they want it at home. Air shows deliver and then some. Just like the rest of the entertainment industry air shows have developed over the years and it's more than just watching a plane fly by. It's become more of an experience with the noise, sights and ground displays. Professional announcers with mind boggling sound systems permeate your senses and get you right into the thick of it. You can almost imagine yourself inside that aircraft tumbling, pulling g's or just feeling the thrill of it all. Just being able to look up and see them isn't enough at an air show. Performers want to interact with the people and get to know them. Fighter pilots enjoy quick stories on how they cope or how they brag, if just a little. It's an amazing job, flying in an air show. Walk up and get an autograph. Attend one of the celebrations after the show.
It is a very reasonable cost and the value is extremely high.

Just to give spectators the amount of value they get from an airshow, I am posting the price of other events and you can see the best value. Once a spectator gets to an air show they will see how much value for their money they actually get. Some people will always stand outside the fence and say they watched a great show, but the real experience is being a part of the show rather than watching it. You can watch a ball game or hockey game from the stands but at an air show you get to see the aircraft up close and get to chat with the pilots who fly them.

For instance,

A good seat at a ball game. Not a nose bleed, but one where you are as close to the action as possible.

Let's look at a family of four.

$77 x 4 = $308

$10 for parking

$15 x 4 = $60 (Food Concessions)

This brings the total to $378 for about 3 hours in a seat watching.

Football, again good seats, not nosebleeds.

$180 x 4 = $720 (I had to divide it up because the tickets are in 5 game packages)

$20 for parking

$15 x 4 = $60 ( Food Concessions)

This brings the total to $800 for about 3 hours in a seat watching.

Hockey.

$100 x 4 = $400

$20 for parking

$15 x 4 = $60 (Food and Concessions)

This brings the total to $480 for about three hours in a seat watching.

Okay so you see how much time you get for the amount of money you pay which of course is your value.

Let's visit the Air Show price.

$100 for Two adults and two children for two(2) days. That's 16 tickets total.

$20 for VIP parking, or take a shuttle for $8

$15 x 4 = $60 Food and Concessions.

This brings the air show total to $180 for 16 hours of entertainment. The major aspect is you get to be a part of the show and mingle. Try that at the next baseball, football, or hockey game. We also have the biggest variety to see and do than any other event.

It's a chance for the family to come out together, walk around, and sit down and enjoy some absolutely fantastic flying from some of the best in the world.

Catch the Experience.

Great News....

2009-05-20T06:28:00.001-07:00

The Snowbirds were originally flying on the Saturday August 29 in our show and then were to travel to Montreal. Capt Steve Thompson has graciously asked me if Windsor would host the Snowbirds on the Sunday August 30 as well. I accepted of course. When it comes to our Snowbirds, the sky is the limit(no pun, they already own the sky).
Hosting the Snowbirds is and always be an honor. The commitment the Snowbirds have for Windsor has shown through and I am absolutely thrilled our friends are staying for the weekend. This gives the spectators more of an opportunity to meet and greet our Canadian Team.

Get your tickets.

Catch the Experience, twice.

WARNING FROM HEALTH CANADA!

2009-05-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

It begins with an itch you can't scratch. From there it progresses to a dull ache that just doesn't seem to subside, even with the aspirin. Next there is a feeling of euphoria mixed in with a small bit of anxiety and then it mixes with a little bit of adrenaline.

The physical symptoms reflect a chronic “readiness” to deal with some future threat. These symptoms may include fidgeting, muscle tension, and sleeping problems. Higher levels may produce such symptoms as rapid heartbeat, sweating, increased blood pressure, nausea, and dizziness. Sometimes it just doesn't matter where you go, you just have to.

There is no known cure but any pilot will tell you the best medicine for these symptoms is to fly. For some it's just an easy day up and down with a few circuits. Others like myself, need to roll around in more of a 3d fashion, rather than straight and level. Some just need the raw power to get their fix.

In the end, the symptoms never go away they stay around until the next flight. It never hurts to keep trying the cure, but it is a bucketful lot of fun.

If you can't fly then please come out, get your fix, and watch the show. There is something about the flight, noise and the smell of aviation fuel that makes your heart pound and imagination soar. Sure you can sit on the outside and watch from afar, but to really get the full experience you have to be front and centre.

Experience the noise and the feel of the sounds as our CF-18 Hornet fires up and prepares for take off. The jet will taxi right down the flight line in front of the crowd for that perfect picture on the ground. As he throttles up you can actually feel the thrust as he moves the plane elegantly forward and right then you will know you have the perfect spot. Then it's just starting. Watch as he maxes out the power for his take off lifts off with raw energy. Your jaw will drop. Sometimes it's hard to decide whether to watch him or take a picture. Imagine the same scenario, this time with 9 Tutor Jets in the air.

There is no cure for this ailment, just the experience.

Come on out front and center to watch 100 Years of Poewered Flight!

US Coast Guard

2009-05-06T10:39:00.000-07:00

Another addition to the show. The HH-65C "Dolphin" helicopter from Air Station Detroit in flight over Lake St. Clair approaching the Detroit River with Windsor, Ontario in the background to the left will be making an appearance in our show.

The United States Coast Guard is a military, multi-mission, maritime service within the Department of Homeland Security and one of the nation's five armed services. Its core roles are to protect the public, the environment, and U.S. economic and security interests in any maritime region in which those interests may be at risk, including international waters and America's coasts, ports, and inland waterways.

We often see them flying over and around Windsor and the unique sound they have comes from

two Turbomeca 2C2-CG Turboshaft Engines that produce 934 shp. It's an unmistakable sound.

My wife and I were on a cruise ship last spring about three hours outside of San Juan heading back to Florida when a Coast Guard Dolphin flew alongside and circled the ship. Apparently an older gentlemen had had a mild heart attack and the helicopter was dispatched from San Juan to intercept the cruise ship. The captain had radioed and made arrangements to turn the ship around so the Coast Guard could get to the ship as quickly as possible and still have fuel to return. With the cruise ship into the wind travelling at 20 knots, pitching up and down, we watched as the pilot circled a couple of times while the crew on the ship prepared the landing pad, and then delicately parked on the front deck without so much as an inch of roll when he touched down. It was amazing to watch this up close. The passengers were 20 deep with their cameras. They loaded up the passenger in short order and then lifted off the deck with such an amazing skill it was almost surreal.

Later that night at dinner it was the talk of the ship and then some.

Just knowing that there is that kind of assistance out there when you get into trouble, makes you appreciate the service and dedication these individuals have.
We welcome the US Coast Guard to our show.

OPP Golden Helmets

2009-05-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

As an added value attraction the OPP Golden Helmets will be performing at our show. The 20-member team, comprised of O.P.P. officers on regular patrol duties, consists of the Ride Master, Commentator, the motorcycle technician and 17 riders. Each team member must have successfully completed a three week motorcycle course and at least one season on motorcycle patrol. The members must be in good physical condition and possess a police fitness pin.

On October 13, 1909, the “Ontario Provincial Police Force” was established with a permanent force of salaried police constables.
The OPP can be traced back to the 19th century when John Wilson Murray, the province’s first full-time paid criminal detective, began his 31-year career in 1875. A small staff of government detectives worked for the Attorney General’s office until the formation of the OPP when many of these “provincial constables” subsequently joined the now formalized Ontario Provincial Police.

The year 2009 marks the OPP’s 100th anniversary, a milestone achievement of service to the people of Ontario. This year is not only a celebration of the past it also continues a commitment to excellence in policing throughout the next century.

Friday Night Gala.

2009-05-02T05:27:00.000-07:00

We will be having a Gala dinner on Friday August 28, 2009 at the CH2A hanger at the Windsor Airport. There are limited tickets available. You will be able to speak up close and personal to these fine aviators who will be performing in the show and as well as the pilots who came here to display their flying machines as a static display. Bring a camera as you will be able to be up close and personal with the Snowbirds, Red Bull Pilots, Skyhawks parachutists, and many, many more.Tickets are on sale now and they will sell out quickly. Email Ticket Sales or call to reserve these tickets as it will be an exceptional night to rub shoulders with some of the best pilots in the world, including our own. Tickets will be $75 each and proceeds will go to help restore the Lancaster Bomber.
In order to secure your tickets, please email info@winairshow.com with your name, address and quantity of tickets.

We will also have special items available at the show that will not be made available to the general public.

Join our email list and become assured of meeting these very intense and approachable performers.

You can get autographs from professional athletes in baseball, hockey, soccer and many other athletic events, however, these pilots make it a point to get involved with their spectators to promote one of the greatest passions a person can accomplish.

"Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return."
This quote has been around for centuries and Leonardo Da Vinci is credited with starting this rumour.

There is no other sport or experience that can get into your blood like aviation because once you get a taste of it, you are sold.

CATCH THE EXPERIENCE THIS AUGUST 29,30, 2009!

Canada Remembers

2009-04-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

As part of our program inclusion at our show we are making ample space available for our Veterans in a relaxed setting. These people gave up their time for service to our country so that we may enjoy the opportunities that they have literally handed down to us through the generations. The freedom and rights we enjoy as a nation were fought for and to this day are still protected by the service men and women in our military.

Our goal is simple. We want to show them the appreciation by giving them a front seat with amenities that they deserve. We want to give the youth in our generation the opportunity to interact with these Veterans so that they may know and understand the commitment and sacrifices they made so we today, may sit and watch an Air Show display with awe and a sense of pride in our country.

We don't want the history of courage, determination and sacrifice to fade away and become a distant memory by only a few. Most of us have never known war in our daily lives and it is because of the values they fought for that we, hopefully, may never have to face on our doorstep.

The Lancaster 212 restoration is an immense project with a very rich history in Canada. It is an icon to those who flew it in unbelievable conditions to protect human rights and the value of freedom.

Join us as we give just a little back for such a immense sacrifice as rest assured, the Veterans know at how high a price freedom comes, even to this day. Help us out by attending the show and shake the hand or give a nod to these selfless individuals.

It doesn't take much to say thank you.

http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/remembers/