Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa Air Show returns with thrilling 6th edition: "Legends of the Sky"
Tashi Farmilo
Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa (AGO) is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated 6th edition, an aviation extravaganza that is set to captivate audiences from September 15 to 17 at the Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport. This year's theme, "Legends of the Sky," promises to showcase an array of legendary aircraft and pilots, while introducing exciting new elements that will elevate the show to new heights.
Undoubtedly the crown jewel of this year's event is the introduction of a captivating night performance on Friday evening. Leading the charge is Randy W. Ball's MiG-17 jet, a rare and powerful aircraft that stands as one of the only remaining operational models of its kind in North America. Alongside it will be Kyle Fowler's Long EZ aerobatic aircraft, accompanied by breathtaking pyrotechnic displays that are set to illuminate the night sky.
The renowned firm Groupe Royal is poised to make history by presenting a dazzling performance featuring one hundred synchronized drones, marking a groundbreaking first in Canada. This innovative aerial spectacle promises to be an unforgettable addition to the diverse and dynamic program of what is regarded as Canada's premier air show.
The President of Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa, John Bennett, expressed the team's enthusiasm for the growth and evolution of the event. "The addition of an evening show is our team's response to the constant growth of our event," Bennett stated. "We thank our partners who have been with us and supported us in this growth. In addition to making several improvements to the site this year, we have an exciting program, bringing together legendary crews, pilots, and aircraft that reflect our mission to spread our passion for aviation, past and present."
The 6th edition of AGO promises an array of new and captivating features that will thrill audiences of all ages. Highlights include a spectacular MIG-17 performance, awe-inspiring shows by GO EZ Aerobatics, the expertise of American aerobatic veteran Kent Pietsch, and the breathtaking aerial acrobatics of WingWalker Carol Pilon. A truly Canadian first will take place with an aerial ballet featuring a Salto glider towed by the venerable Nanchang CJ-6 military aircraft. In addition to these incredible acts, legendary Red Bull Air Race pilot Pete McLeod has confirmed his attendance, adding his expertise to an already star-studded lineup.
Aviation enthusiasts can also look forward to the return of crowd favourites, including the iconic Snowbirds, the CF-18 Hornet, and the heart-pounding performances by the Canadian Armed Forces parachute team, the SkyHawks. Delighting World War II aircraft aficionados, AGO has orchestrated a reunion of three Pacific legends: the Grumman TBM Avenger, Louis Horschel's Corsair FG-1, and the much-anticipated return of the American movie star, the ZERO Tora 101 replica.
Embracing the spirit of collaboration, Outaouais Tourism is proud to stand as a contributing partner to the Aero Gatineau-Ottawa air show. Recognizing the show's unique ability to draw in tourists from across the nation and all age groups, Julie Kinnear, President and CEO of Outaouais Tourism, praised the event's impact. "It is a great exposure for the Outaouais region to have its visitors marvel at the aerial prowess and to capture the interest of aviation history enthusiasts," Kinnear said. She expressed enthusiasm for the new night show, a highlight not to be missed this year.
The success of Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa is underpinned by a robust network of partners who share the vision of celebrating aviation excellence. These partners include the Ville de Gatineau, Government of Quebec, Tourisme Outaouais, Select Aviation College, Vintage Wings of Canada, Top Aces, SkyAlyne, Boeing, Airbus, CDN Aviation, Nolinor Aviation, OWG, Collins Aerospace, Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport, NAV Canada, and a host of others who have united to ensure the show's continued success.
Photo: As anticipation mounts for the 6th edition of Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa, aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike can look forward to an unparalleled event that promises to celebrate the legacy of aviation while pushing the boundaries of aerial entertainment. With legends of the sky poised to take centre stage, this year's air show is primed to soar to new heights and leave an indelible mark on Canada's aviation history. (TF) Photo courtesy of Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa