Conference & Career Expo Also Off, Organizers Reconsider Location

Organizers of the Alberta International Airshow have placed the show on hiatus, after discussions with the venue owner/operator, Edmonton Regional Airports Authority, proved fruitless. ERAA had initially told airshow officials in December 2024 that it did not want to host the show in 2025 and the team attempted negotiations but eventually decided to cancel.

Airshow organizer Richard Skermer said that the ERAA told him it was not even sure it wanted to host any shows in the future. He said, “We’ve been looking for a new home, but haven’t been able to find one yet. We’re going to have to  hold off for this year.”

Skermer also said the concurrent conference and career expo canceled as well. No refunds will be necessary as tickets have not yet been on sale.

Megan Hall, spokesperson for ERAA said “after careful consideration” the airport decided to step down as partner with Alberta International Airshow and not host the event this year. Renovations being done at Villeneuve apparently would not affect or prevent an airshow.

Hall said, “As [Villeneuve Airport] continues to evolve as a premier general aviation airport and training facility in the region, we will continue to align with organizations that reflect our commitment to professionalism and operational excellence.”

Sturgeon County Mayor Alanna Hnatiw said this decision did not represent the end of the county’s support of the region’s aviation and defense sectors, which are critical to the county’s goal of economic growth and diversification.

Hnatiw said, “The Airshow has always been a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience something unique, offering a glimpse into the world of aviation. At the same time, we also recognize the significant challenges involved in organizing an event of this size and complexity. We hope that a similar event will return to Villeneuve Airport when the time is right.”

Because of a shortage of performers, the 2024 airshow was canceled, but Skermer said he and the team are searching for a new home for the airshow and hope to identify and have one in place by August.

“We need to figure out how or where we’re going to go,” He said.

FMI:  albertainternationalairshow.com/