Performances & Crowds Hot Under Cooler Skies 

Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Monday, September 10, 2018

AIRSHOW LONDON (ASL) 2018 posted a crowd count of 30,000 and organizers are very pleased with the weekend turnout. Fans lined up to get into the venue for what was again Canada’s largest military air display and arguably one of the top shows in North America.  Celebrating 90 years of airshows in London, the 2018 edition left no doubt as to why London is a popular destination with performers and spectators.

 

Dave De Kelver, Executive Director, said the lineup of over 70 aircraft was amazing.  He says, “Our Flight Operations team, led by Gerry Vanderhoek put together a show second to none. This dedication to excellence by our volunteer team is what keeps the most advanced military aircraft and crews looking for a spot on their show roster for London and it’s what puts the ‘awesome’ in what we present.”

 

ASL Board Chair Jim Graham believes the London show is well positioned to continue expanding – with both participants and sponsors.  He adds, “London set the bar very high for this show right from the start.  We knew we wanted to bring back this event as a premiere, top-level North American showcase for military aircraft and we’ve done it. This was year three and it’s like we’ve taken a hat trick for ASL.  London is the center of aviation advancements in technology and education for our region and AIRSHOW LONDON demonstrates the power this sector brings to not only here but our country. We opened our gates to fans from down the street and we welcomed visitors from around the world.  AIRSHOW LONDON is supporting charities and not for profits and making a name for itself.  We couldn’t be more pleased”.

 

The final addition to this year’s show was the unveiling of “Katie’s Bears”, named in memory of Gerry Vanderhoek’s daughter Kaitlin. The Saturday night awards night provided an opportunity for each of the crews to receive their ‘Katie Bear’ and it’s expected photos will start to fly in to katiesbear.com just about as soon as the planes begin taking off.  The bears will accompany the crews on their journeys and report back through the website and social media so kids at the London Children’s Hospital can follow their adventures.  For more information – go to katiesbear.com.

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Contact:           Jim Graham – Chair – 519-521-6214

 

Dave De Kelver – Event Director – 519-777-7502

Posted by ASL Media Team Media Release

London ‘Katie’s Bears’ Heading for Wild Blue Yonder

Media Release

London ‘Katie’s Bears’ Heading for Wild Blue Yonder


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, August 30, 2018

 

AIRSHOW LONDON and the Children’s Health Foundation today took off with plans to send bears flying.  Code named ‘Katie’s Bears’ the project will see 30 stuffed bears become crew members for Canadian and U S military, travel the world and report back to London.

The bears are named in memory of Kaitlin Vanderhoek, daughter of AIRSHOW LONDON’S Director of Flight Operations – Gerry Vanderhoek.  Kaitlin and her father shared a love of aircraft and airshows.  Gerry says supporting the Children’s Health Foundation and finding ways to make other kids lives a little brighter is part of Katie’s legacy. While a total of 350 bears will be distributed to children in AIRSHOW LONDON’S Katie’s Corner next weekend, 30 of them will be heading into the wild blue yonder with air crews from around North America.

As the crew members document their travels in photos and share pictures on a website – katiesbear.com – and social media the children who are undergoing medical challenges and treatment will be watching the adventures. Their escapades will be seen worldwide and clearly illustrate that if bears can fly ‘anything is possible’.

The project is part of an ongoing relationship between AIRSHOW LONDON and Children’s Health Foundation.  The purchase of the bears was made possible by Siskinds.

The bears will be paired with their respective crews during a VIP and ASL Awards night next Saturday.  On the Monday morning, following the show, the bears will strap in at takeoff for the journey of a lifetime.

Mayor Matt Brown joined the event today and believes the project is a perfect example of how Londoners come together to do the most amazing things – for the right reasons. John Winston, General Manager of Tourism London, Sara Steers, Director of Philanthropy at the Children’s Health Foundation, Jim Graham, Board Chair for ASL and Dave De Kelver, the shows executive director were also on hand to share their excitement for this initiative.

Anyone wishing to follow Katie’s Bears can go to the website katiesbear.com – links for social media will be posted too.

 

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Contact:  Dave De Kelver – Executive Director – 519-777-7502

airshowlondon.com

Posted by ASL Media Team In The News Media Release

Lockheed Martin Returns As Aircraft Numbers Soar

Media Release

Lockheed Martin Returns As Aircraft Numbers Soar


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Tuesday, August 21, 2018

 

One of the world’s most recognized names in aerospace is returning to AIRSHOW LONDON (ASL) as the 2018 presenting sponsor. Lockheed Martin is taking the top level spot in a show featuring some top level Lockheed Martin aircraft.

The F-35 Lightning II is one of Lockheed Martin’s premiere aircraft and it’s back for ASL 2018. The world’s most survivable and connected fighter aircraft, the F-35 combines advanced low observable stealth technology with fighter speed and agility, fully fused sensor information, network-enabled operations and advanced sustainment. For the lay person this translates to – fast and furious and totally awesome.  Dave De Kelver, ASL Executive Director, says the organization is pleased Lockheed Martin is returning as a primary sponsor as ASL will again provide a great showcase opportunity for the
F-35 and other Lockheed Martin aircraft.

He says, “As Canada’s largest military air demonstration in 2018, AIRSHOW LONDON continues to bring the world’s leading aircraft, and the companies who make them, to London.  This is where fans and aircraft aficionado come together to see the BEST and LATEST in aircraft design and technology. With support from partners like Lockheed Martin, ASL continues to build quite a reputation for excellence. Gerry ‘Hook’ Vanderhoek, our Director of Flight Operations, has put together a stellar roster of aircraft and we’ll be hosting media and fans from across North America, Europe and Asia.”

“We are so pleased to see Lockheed Martin return to AIRSHOW LONDON. All eyes are on our city as we prepare to host Canada’s largest military display,” said Mayor Matt Brown. “London is a leader in the aerospace and defence industry and we are looking forward to welcoming partners from around the globe for ASL 18.”

“Lockheed Martin is proud to return to AIRSHOW LONDON as the presenting sponsor for the second consecutive year,” said Charles Bouchard, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin Canada. “As a global leader in developing the world’s most advanced aircraft, we are thrilled so many of our platforms will be on display. From the mighty C-130 Hercules and C-5 Galaxy, to the F-16 Viper and the highly advanced F-35 Lightning II, AIRSHOW LONDON has attracted Lockheed Martin’s biggest and most exciting aircraft.”

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Contact:  Cindy Tessier – Head of Communications – Lockheed Martin Canada (613) 762-5753

Dave De Kelver – Executive Director – 519-777-7502

airshowlondon.com

Posted by ASL Media Team General Media Release

ASL Photo Contest Winner

AND THE WINNER IS… Daniel Larouche and an awesome Super Hornet.

Thanks to all the amazing photographers and shutter bugs who entered the Focus ASL Photo Contest.  Our full winner list is below.  Watch for their amazing pics on the AIRSHOW LONDON website.  We’ll be posting in the next couple of days.

Special thanks to our judges Chris Collins, Larry Weir and Gerry (Hook) Vanderhoek.  With over 750 entries, the task of choosing the final few was daunting but they got the job done.

AND a special thanks to NIKON.  Our winner will be receiving a special ‘goody bag’ from our photo-pit sponsor, in addition to the $500 first prize from AIRSHOW LONDON.

Next contest starts Friday, Sept 7th as NIKON looks for the best shot of the day.    A grand winner will be announced at the end of the show. The prize package will be announced prior to the show. Watch for details.

Leading up to the September 7 – 9th event NIKON will be offering tips on how to take your aviation photo techniques to greater heights. Follow NIKON on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.


Winning Picture

Full Winner List

Krystal Wilson

Denis Danylov

Vijay Mistry

Rob Mauro

Travis McArthur

Adrian Baker

Joe Letourneau

Edwin Jones

Denis Danylov

Derek Mickeloff

Ernie Szelepcsenyi

Posted by ASL Media Team General

Tickets Now On Sale at Rexall Stores in London and Area

Media Release

Tickets Now On Sale at Rexall Stores in London and Area

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Friday, July 27, 2018

City and area Rexall Stores are selling AIRSHOW LONDON (ASL) tickets.

ASL Executive Director, Dave De Kelver, believes the ‘at the counter buy’ is a good addition to the online ticket purchase.  He says, “Rexall has provided this service as part of its sponsorship for the past two years and we’re pleased they are back for a third time. This year Rexall furthered their partnership by contributing to our Katie’s Corner area, providing 100 more spaces for LCHF clients and families. Supporting children’s health programs and organizations aligns to the Rexall Foundation”.

De Kelver says advance ticket sales are strong and online is a great way to get your tickets but some people like to make their purchase in person and Rexall’s participation makes that possible.

Show performers and static display aircraft are listed on the AIRSHOW LONDON website.  De Kelver says this year will again be a top flight event.  Headliners include the F-16 Viper Demo Team, CF-18 Demonstration Team (this year saluting NORAD’s 60th anniversary), Northrop F-5A “Freedom Fighter”, F-86 Sabre, RCAF CH-146 SAR (Search and Rescue Demo), RCAF CC-130H, and Canada’s aviation ambassadors – the Snowbirds.

AIRSHOW LONDON’s lineup places it again at the top end of North American airshows with participants and spectators scheduled to arrive from across North America and Europe.

This year the show is offering FREE admission to children 12 & under. Visit airshowlondon.com for ticket information for all three days – Sept 7 -9.

A list of Rexall store locations where tickets can be purchased is listed below.

 

For more information and tickets visit www.airshowlondon.ca

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Contact:  Dave De Kelver – Event Director – office 519-433-0200

Rexall Store Locations

London:
740 Hyde Park Rd – 519-471-7262
1551 Dundas St E – 519-451-0510
Beaverbrook & Wonderland – 519-657-2580
1593 Adelaide St N – 519-645-7760
1240 Commissioners Rd W – 519-474-7424
1795 Ernest Ave – 519-681-2482
1505 Highbury Ave N – 519-457-3387
350 Oxford Street E – 519-432-7164

Amherstburg:
71 Sandwich Street – 519-736-1022

Chatham:
401 St Clair St – 519-436-0005

Sarnia:
697 Cathcart Boulevard – 519-332-5575

Wallaceburg:
440 James St – 519-627-3388

Windsor:
1215 Ouellette Ave – 519-256-1700
1775 Sprucewood Ave – 519-250-3988
3840 Howard Avenue – 519-967-8512

Woodstock:
706 Dundas St –  519-421-3784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by ASL Media Team General Media Release

AIRSHOW LONDON “Cheques” In With Local Charities

Media Release

AIRSHOW LONDON “Cheques” In With Local Charities


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Friday, July 20, 2018

 

AIRSHOW LONDON (ASL) today presented cheques to two London health organizations as part of its ongoing commitment to providing support for community.  Dave De Kelver, Executive Director of ASL, and Gerry Vanderhoek, Director of Flight Operations, delivered $10,000 (ten thousand dollars) to the London Children’s Health Foundation and St. Joseph’s Health Foundation (Veteran’s Care and Comfort Fund).  The funds will be shared equally. The charity administrators were pleased to accept the donations and equally as pleased with the inclusion of patients, residents and families during the show weekend.

“Children’s Health Foundation is so grateful for the generous support of AIRSHOW LONDON, as they are truly making an impact on kids in our community. We look forward to being a charity partner at the 2018 event and creating a lasting partnership for years to come.” – Scott Fortnum, Children’s Health Foundation.

Gerry Vanderhoek acknowledged the AIRSHOW LONDON partners and sponsors who work together in “Katie’s Corner” creating the front row location where youngsters from the Children’s Hospital of Western Ontario and their families make amazing air show memories. Veterans from the Parkwood residence attend the Friday night twilight show where, as VIP guests, they meet and share stories with current serving members of the Canadian and United States military. He said, “We are so very proud to bring smiles to the faces of the kids and adults who join us as our special guests.  The airshow is an awesome way to lift spirits.” Gerry daughter Kaitlin Vanderhoek was the inspiration for Katie’s Corner and he feels it’s a perfect way for her to be remembered.

ASL also provides tickets for fund raising for other London based charities and not-for-profit organizations.
De Kelver says it’s all part of the AIRSHOW LONDON mandate and only possible because of Londoner’s support.  “Our volunteers number in the hundreds and it is their collective efforts that allow us to make AIRSHOW LONDON the great event it is and to help out in our community in many ways. While ASL promotes aerospace/defence industries, education and aviation opportunities centered in this part of Ontario, it also recognizes the need to reach out and be an active member of the not-for-profit community.  We see rising to extraordinary heights as a natural extension of what we do.  Supporting others in their efforts to ‘reach for the stars’ makes perfect sense and we’re looking forward to an awesome 2018 on every level.”

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Contact:  Dave De Kelver – Executive Director – Office: 519-433-0200 Cell: 519-777-7502

airshowlondon.com

 

Pictured – from left to Right

 

Alycia McComb, Fundraising Events Officer CHF, Gerry Vanderhoek, Director of Flight Operations, Chris Collins ASL Board Member, Scott Fortnum Pres/CEO CHF, Dave De Kelver – E.D. ASL

Posted by ASL Media Team General Media Release

Shutters Up and Open for ‘focus ASL’

Media Release

Shutters Up and Open for ‘focus ASL’

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Friday, June 22, 2018

AIRSHOW LONDON today announced its focus ASL photography contest. Organizers are looking for the best aircraft photos from the 2017 show. Photographers, either professional or amateur, are encouraged to submit their awesome shots for a chance to win one of 17  prizes including the top prize of  $500 and a ‘fun bag of swag’ from NIKON.

Seventeen submissions will be chosen to appear in this year’s calendar/program.  Details can be found at airshowlondon.com.  AIRSHOW LONDON Executive Director, Dave De Kelver says the contest will showcase some of the amazing images that have come out of the 2017 show.  He says, “Photographers love airshows and we love them right back.  A great photograph can capture and convey not only the engineering prowess of an aircraft but also the emotion that’s attached to the speed and daring of flight.  Even as technology takes us further and faster, our fascination and amazement of our ability to soar through the heavens appears to be heightened, not lessened.  And we all know a great picture is worth about Mach three.”

De Kelver also announced a new sponsor and proudly welcomed NIKON to its growing list of supporters. London is one of two stops for the NIKON team at Canadian airshows and will bring with it access to ‘free’ cameras and lenses on loan for each day of the show to Photo Pit Pass holders. Equipment will be supplied on a first come basis.  They will also have binoculars and field scopes available for the public to try out.

In addition, NIKON will hold a ‘photo of the day’ contest during the show.  A grand winner will be announced at the end of the event.  The prize package will be announced soon. Watch for details.

Leading up to the September 7 – 9th event NIKON will be offering tips on how to take your aviation photo techniques to greater heights. Follow NIKON on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram .and YouTube.

Anyone interested in submitting a photo to focus ASL photography contest.is encouraged to visit airshowlondon.com and get their photos in early.  The contest runs from Monday June 25th until the 20th of July.  Winners will be announced July 27th.

 

For more information and tickets visit www.airshowlondon.com

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Contact:  Dave De Kelver – Executive Director – office – 519-433-0200

Posted by ASL Media Team Media Release

Airshow Free For Kids

Via: http://blackburnnews.com/london/london-news/2018/03/14/airshow-free-kids/

Kids will be able to pass through the gates of Airshow London for free when the aviation spectacle takes to the skies this September.

Airshow officials announced on Wednesday that there will be no cost for children 12 and under to attend this year’s performance at the London International Airport.

“It’s really important to us to get families out to the show,” said Airshow Executive Director Dave De Kelver. “If cost was stopping families from attending then I am hopeful we have taken that roadblock out of the way.”

Read more “Airshow Free For Kids”

Posted by ASL Media Team In The News

Loudest Ticket in Town Now On Sale

Media Release

Loudest Ticket in Town Now On Sale

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:  Wednesday, March 14, 2018

AIRSHOW LONDON has launched its online ticket sales for 2018.  David De Kelver, Executive Director, advises fans will find a few modifications in ticket options this year and he expects they will be pleased. He says, “The biggest change for families is “Kids are Free” NO Ticket required, at least for everyone 12 and under.  It’s the kids who are dreaming of careers in aviation and we want to open the gates and welcome as many future pilots, aeronautical engineers, crew members, or mechanics as possible.”

De Kelver says the performers and static display lists are expanding as military demonstration teams announce their schedules. He is really looking forward to seeing the CF-18 painted in honour of the 60th anniversary of NORAD.  “The Royal Canadian Air Force provides the most stunning designs on their demonstration jets and the sneak peeks we’ve been getting are pretty spectacular.  Watching the CF-18 perform on the Friday evening, just as dusk is setting in, brings an unbelievable feeling of pride and the image of the after-burners in the darkening sky are unforgettable.  It’s an awesome show.”

AIRSHOW LONDON 2018 will be rocking London skies September 7th – 9th.

For more information visit www.airshowlondon.com

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Contact:  Dave De Kelver – Executive Director – 519-777-7502

Posted by ASL Media Team Media Release

ASL Announces SPEED – CLASSICS and Home Grown Aviators

Media Release

ASL Announces SPEED – CLASSICS and Home Grown Aviators

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:  Tuesday, March 13, 2018

The F-16 Fighting Falcon is returning to AIRSHOW LONDON (ASL).  Gerry Vanderhoek, Director of Flight Operations, today announced the Air Combat Command F-16 Viper Demonstration Team as one of the September show headliners.

Read more “ASL Announces SPEED – CLASSICS and Home Grown Aviators”

Posted by ASL Media Team General Media Release