Saskatchewan Airshow takes to the skies in July

As a product of Moose Jaw, Col. Denis O’Reilly is more than a little familiar with the Saskatchewan Airshow.

On Monday, his excitement was evident as he discussed the airshow’s return to 15 Wing Moose Jaw with 980 CJME’s Greg Morgan Morning Show.

The airshow hasn’t been held since 2005, so O’Reilly — the base commander — is glad to see it return in July.

“This airshow is really important,” he said. “After a 15-year hiatus, we’re very proud to bring it back to the people of Saskatchewan.”

The show is set for July 6-7 and will feature the Canadian Forces Snowbirds demonstrations team. O’Reilly pointed out that the pilot of Snowbird 1, Maj. Denis Bandet, hails from Regina, which in O’Reilly’s mind only adds to the lustre of the show.

“We’re excited to showcase local talent but also national-level talent for the province of Saskatchewan,” O’Reilly said.

In addition to the Snowbirds, O’Reilly said the show will feature demonstrations by a CF-18 Hornet, a United States Air Force F-16, a T-33 trainer, a Second World War-era Harvard trainer and civilian aerobatics performers.

“We’ve got about four hours of action-packed aerial demonstration,” O’Reilly said.

There also will be static ground displays to give patrons an up-close look at aircraft on the tarmac.

Tickets can be purchased here. Until June 24, adult tickets cost $20, and tickets for teens, seniors and veterans are going for $15.

After June 24, adult admission will be $25 per ticket, while tickets for teens, seniors and veterans will cost $20.

Children under 12 will get in free.