Back in the 70's and early 80's, the show was run by CWH and was an excellent Airshow. I worked for CWH at the time and it was a wonderful experience meeting and working with many of the top airshow people
Th show was participated by many Canadian and American Vintage and Warbird owners from all over N America. Plus some of the top Military acts Blue Angels Snowbird etc
Unfortunately it got too big and expensive for CWH to run at that time and in order to keep it going the Hamilton Airshow committee was formed. The first couple of shows were OK but they started becoming more geared towards the modern fighter jets rather than the vintage aircraft.
It was felt at the time that this would attract the younger geneartions but it did not.
History have proven that most people young and old are more attracted to the older types that the jets.
This and the fact that the committee started selling prime showline spots to corporate sponsors ruined the show for the average attendees. All along the showline were corporate tents blocking everyones view. The show no longer catered to the average viewer.
Another change from the earlier shows was the lack of ground displays. There use to be all kinds of organizations with displays in and out of the hangers but all this ended with the city taking over the show.
Hopefully, there are enough people left at CWH that remember how the show was run in it's successful/golden years and will learn from the Airshow Committees mistakes.
CWH is a great Museum. They went thru some lean years but over the past 10 yrs , the current Management ,Staff and Volunteers have turned things around and got many of the aircraft back in the air. They are Canada's #1 Flying Museum!
I wish them all the luck in a successful rebirth of the Hamilton Airshow.
Last week we we invited to be part of the show. We will have both Fleet Finches there.
I for one am looking forward to participating in the show.
Just like old times again
