FIAS Focuses Attention on Community Recovery

Punta Gorda’s annual Florida International Air Show (FIAS) has been canceled… all thanks to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The event was originally scheduled for November 2 and 3 at Punta Gorda Airport (PGD).

Air show organizers dropped the cancel-bomb on October 14, stating: “In light of the significant impacts of Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene on the community, organizers have made the difficult decision to cancel the 43rd Annual Florida International Airshow. The dual hurricanes have caused widespread damage and disruption across the region, making it impractical to proceed with the event.”

At the time of the release, nearly 460,000 businesses and homes in Florida were still in the dark. Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 storm on October 9, tearing through West Coast communities and killing at least 17 people.

“Our community is facing tremendous challenges as we recover from the destruction caused by these two powerful storms,” stated Denise Dull, air show president. “The safety of our attendees, vendors, and volunteers is our highest priority, and at this time, it is clear that the best course of action is to focus on supporting our community’s recovery efforts.”

The 2023 FIAS performance drew in a record-breaking 45,000 viewers, including almost  22,750 visitors from outside the Charlotte County area. Not including money paid directly by the air show, FIAS generated an economic impact of $5,310,800. Organizers donated $41,000 to local charities.

This year’s planned lineup featured the F-16 Viper Demo Team, USAF Thunderbirds, Warbird Thunder, a P-51 Heritage Flight, and a performance by air show “king” Kyle Franklin.

“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who have worked tirelessly in preparation for this year’s event,” Dull continued. “We look forward to the 2025 Airshow, where we can host an amazing event in a way that reflects the strength and resilience of our community.”

FMI: www.floridaairshow.com