Budget cuts in the U.S. will ground a favourite feature of the Abbotsford Airshow – American military aircraft.
The statement from Maj. Darrick B. Lee, public affairs representative for the USAF Thunderbirds, says details about when the team will begin performing again are still unclear.
“In the meantime, pilots will take every opportunity to train in an effort to maintain their proficiency within the limits of sequestration.”
The public affairs team for the Blue Angels aerial team posted a message on its Facebook page, explaining that April’s shows are cancelled.
Airshows across the U.S. have already been cancelled, but the Abbotsford Airshow will go forward as planned.
Jim Reith, incoming president of the Abbotsford Airshow, previously told The News they are working on alternate plans, which will include hiring civilian performers alongside the Canadian Snowbirds and Skyhawks. He said the biggest impact of the grounded American planes will be on the static lineup. But, despite the lack of U.S. performers, Reith is convinced the airshow will be a success.
“I think we’ll have a very solid flying display lineup.”