First Florida... Now Ontario

London International AirFest officials have posted on their website the cancellation of that organization's show next year in London, Ontario, Canada. It is the second time the show has been cancelled in two years.

The 2005 show, originally scheduled for June 24-26 this past summer, was cancelled as well. No further information about the 2006 cancellation was given on the organization's website, and attempts by ANN to contact representatives were unsuccessful.

Unfortunately, it isn't difficult to speculate on the reason for the cancellation: according to a press release posted on a Canadian website, the 2005 performance was cancelled "due to the continued increase in costs and the loss of several sponsors."

"Over our five years of operating the show, we have ensured that all bills have been paid, although only one of the years was profitable," wrote London AirFest president Barry McGonigle about the 2005 cancellation. "In that time, the show has also contributed in excess of $142,000.00 to local charities and organizations."

As was reported this weekend in Aero-News, the announcement comes two days after Tampa's MacDill AFB announced the cancellation of their 2006 airshow due to the continued obligations of military personnel, serving at home and overseas.

Past AirFests have featured performances by the Canadian Snowbirds, as well as the "Hour of Power" -- a ground-shaking sunset flyover of a variety of military aircraft from around the world.

According to their website, London International AirFest is continuing with plans for its 2007 show. We'll keep you posted...

FMI: www.londonairshow.com