Below is a statement from John Cudahy, President of the International Council of Air Shows, reflecting on what was a tough year for air shows... and what ICAS hopes to achieve in 2008 -- Ed.

As the air show industry wraps up its 2007 air show season and looks forward to the coming year, we will be analyzing the larger-than-normal number of accidents that our industry suffered through during this past air show season so that we may integrate needed changes or make necessary adjustments to the manner in which air shows are conducted in North America.

In 2008, the International Council of Air Shows will also be focusing on issues related to air show sustainability.  The long-term survival of individual air shows requires that they look at the long-term when planning and executing their events.

In the air show industry, this new emphasis on sustainability will focus on financial planning, leadership succession, strong day-to-day business practices, sponsorship development and professional marketing.

FMI: www.icashq.org