In a year in which COVID-19 has led to the cancellation of countless events, Airshow London has found a way to take off.
Officials with the airshow announced on Monday a new drive-in format for the 2020 aviation extravaganza. Billed as Canada’s first socially responsible and physically distant air show, the event will run between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. September 12 and 13 and feature the United States Air Force Thunderbirds' only Canadian appearance of the year. The U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, and Air Force C-17 Globemaster Demonstration Team will also be participating.
"The past few months have been devastating 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,” Jim Graham, chair of Airshow London, said in a statement. “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.”
The 2020 version of Airshow London is being referred to as Skydrive and will see as many as 2,500 cars park on the grounds of the London International Airport to take in the show. Each car will be assigned a 20 by 25-foot space with spectators allowed to be outside of their vehicle within that perimeter. The show will be broadcast over vehicle radios and those in attendance are permitted to bring their own refreshments.
"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 Graham.
Tickets for the event must be purchased in advanced and are on sale at www.airshowlondon.com. Anyone who previously bought general admission tickets for Airshow London 2020 are being told to hang onto them until 2021, when the event returns to its normal format.
