Photo from the 2022 Lethbridge International Airshow. The LIAA has announced its dissolution. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge International Airshow permanently ending

Aug 8, 2024 | 12:42 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – It turns out that the 2023 edition of the Lethbridge International Airshow was its last.

The Lethbridge International Airshow Association (LIAA) is announcing is dissolution.

“After many years of thrilling performances, community engagement, and fostering a love for aviation, the Association will cease operations promptly and take steps to dissolve the Association as soon as practically possible,” reads a media release from the LIAA.

The group’s decision came after careful consideration and reflects “challenges and changing circumstances impacting our ability to continue delivering this beloved event.”

The group says those factors include:

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• Securing Adequate Funding Support:
  • The significant increasing costs related to operating an event of this size have made it challenging to secure adequate grants and funding from their event partners.
• Challenges in Securing Demonstration Assets:
  • Required minimums as per global military asset providers and jet teams, in many cases exceed the current surfaces at the Lethbridge Airport, thus making it difficult to secure the performers that our audience deserves.
• Legal and Logistical Requirements:
  • The legal and logistical requirements requested of the board by their event partners have added to the complexities of organizing the event.
• Volunteer Support:
  • Securing the appropriate level of volunteers to run this large event has become challenging, given the time of year and many other community volunteer needs

“We extend our deepest gratitude to the community of Lethbridge and surrounding areas for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your passion for the airshow has been the driving force behind our efforts, and we are incredibly proud of the memories we’ve created together,” the LIAA says in a statement.

The group continues, “We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors. Your generosity and commitment have been crucial in making the airshow a reality year after year. Your contributions have not only supported the event but also helped inspire future generations of aviators and aviation enthusiasts.”

The Lethbridge International Airshow had been a tradition in southern Alberta for more than 20 years.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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