COVID-19 grounds Vanderhoof International Airshow until 2022

The 2021 Vanderhoof International Airshow won’t go forward as planned. Organizers announced today (June 3) they’ve made the decision to reschedule the 2021 airshow until 2022.

“Every safe and successful Airshow produced is the culmination of months of work behind the scenes. There are many regulations and requirements that must be in place well in advance show day. The uncertainty of the past year has made these requirements virtually impossible to meet,” said the Vanderhoof International Airshow Society.

“The outlook for BC’s restart plan is positive, but the dates given are still dependent on the success of the plan, and there are no guarantees.”

The society said even if COVID-19 numbers decline as expected they do not have the time preparation or resources to make it work.

“In the interest of safety, we had hoped to deliver a “Drive-In” show. We would not want to do so unless we can be sure of creating the best possible experience for our guests, including a great view of the action, adequate facilities with Covid safety protocols in place, and the ability to broadcast the exciting airshow commentary to every spectator. This would not be an easy task under the best of circumstances,” said the society.

“Among other challenges, we have been unable to secure the area for Aerobatic Safety Box needed to accommodate the jet aircraft booked for the show.”

The society added they are also not in a financial position to proceed, as they’ve been unable to sell tickets, or secure support from partners or sponsors during the uncertainty of the pandemic.

“We share in the disappointment of the airshow fans who hoped to join us this August, but we would like to assure you that we are already looking towards an epic return in 2022.”

In 2020, the society postponed the event until 2021 which was slated for the B.C. Day long weekend.

Instead, the society organized The Great Regional Air Hug of 2020 which saw various aircraft fly over the entire north-central region to spread a little hope and inspiration in the midst of the pandemic.