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Airshow London to take place September, with drive-in format

Airshow London today announced its 2020 air show will take place September 12 and 13 as a drive-in format, running under the theme of Skydrive, in order to present a socially responsible and physically distant air show. Organizers of the air show explain the grounds of London International Airport can accommodate close to 2,500 cars under this socially responsible model, designed to conform to public health guidelines relating to COVID-19.

“We know how much the air show is enjoyed by the community, so while the impact of COVID-19 prevents us from producing our traditional-style event, we wanted to create a solution that minimizes risk and interaction while still offering an exciting and family-friendly event,” said Jim Graham, chair, Airshow London.

The air show itself takes place approximately 1:00 to 4:00 pm each day, Saturday and Sunday, with gates opening at 11:00 am – with no static display of aircraft this year. Attendees will arrive with a pre-purchased ticket (1 ticket per vehicle) and be directed to park in a 20 x 25-foot space to watch the show from inside their vehicle or by sitting in front of it.

Attendees can bring their own refreshments, listen to the show on car radios, and utilize portable washrooms. Behind each row of vehicles is a 25-foot roadway on which Attendees walk to portable washrooms in their zone. Parking within each zone is assigned based on a first-come-first-served basis.

Tickets went on sale today based on three Skydrive zones: The Red zone ($150) is on the runway to offer premium viewing; the Blue zone ($100) features viewing from the airshow’s regular festival grounds; and the Green zone ($75) provides parking spots on the grass. All tickets must be purchased in advance and presented at the air show’s entrance gate to be scanned through a closed vehicle window.

Airshow London is scheduled to feature a strong line-up of Canadian and American military aircraft, including airplanes representing the Royal Canadian Air Force and four U.S. demonstration teams: United States Air Force Thunderbirds (their only 2020 Canadian appearance in 2020), U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, and U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster Demonstration Team

“The past few months have been devasting to so many in our community, and now that we are allowed to gather in a socially responsible manner, we are excited to offer this amazing opportunity for outdoor entertainment,” said Graham. “And to have commitments from four U.S. demonstration teams at a Canadian show is extraordinary, and confirms they are itching to get out there and fly.”