Over 100 general aviation aircraft are expected to arrive at Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport on Saturday, August 8, for the annual fly-in celebration.
Sarnia Ontario Aviation Rally (SOAR) Fly-In Spokesperson Bruce Bond mentioned that most of the planes will come from southwestern Ontario, while a few are traveling from Michigan.
The festivities kick off at 8:30 a. m. and will continue until 3 p. m.
Spokesperson Mark Seibutis shared that the Sarnia Legion Pipe Band will make an appearance just before 10 a. m. After the ceremony wraps up, attendees can explore the area freely.
“There’ll be bouncy castles for kids,” Seibutis noted. “There are food vendors, and various local businesses will showcase their products.”
Retired astronaut Col. Chris Hadfield will also be present for meet and greets as well as book signings.
The event is free to attend; however, donations will be collected for Pathways Health Centre for Children. Over the years, approximately $40,000 has been raised for this cause in total.
Seibutis added that this year’s gathering would pay tribute to Roger and Eleanor Hadfield, who significantly contributed to Sarnia’s early aviation history.
He emphasized that this event offers a rare chance for people to see various types of aircraft up close.
Unique planes like the P-51 Mustang and Spitfire MKXVII will be showcased. The Canadian Aviation Museum is bringing in Harvard, Stearman, and Chipmunk aircraft as well.
“It’s also a chance to spark interest among younger folks and get them excited about aviation and flying,” said Bond. “There’s a shortage of pilots in North America and probably around the world too. We want to inspire younger kids towards careers in aviation.”
The hope is that this event raises awareness about keeping Sarnia’s airport thriving. Seibutis encouraged visitors to check out the advertising boards set up during the event.
“This could really help city councillors when making decisions by showing them that these businesses support the airport and events like this,” Seibutis explained.
In April, city council voted to create a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) designed to help plan for Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport’s future. MSC board members were approved during the council meeting on July 20.
The airport is also participating in a one-year pilot project with Tourism Sarnia-Lambton, Landline Company, and Air Canada to provide motorcoach service to Toronto Pearson Airport.
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