Public aviation events such as air shows, exhibits, and expos are very important to the continued viability of aviation. They are an opportunity for enthusiasts young and old get up close and personal with any number of fascinating flying machines, an experience that stokes the flames of the passion burning within us all.

Public aviation events such as air shows, exhibits, and expos are very important to the continued viability of aviation. They are an opportunity for enthusiasts young and old get up close and personal with any number of fascinating flying machines, an experience that stokes the flames of the passion burning within us all.

The crew of The Aviators just returned from a successful trip to Sun ‘n Fun in Lakeland, FL (our first time there) and are, of course, looking forward to AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI in July. But you might be surprised to know that at least monthly, if not weekly, there are smaller air shows that take place across North America. Several are likely not too far away from where you may be right now.

In the Toronto area, for example, within a four-month period we have the Canadian Aviation Expo, Wings and Wheels, the Waterloo Air Show, the Borden Air Show, and the Canadian International Air Show to name a few.

The latest to be added to that local list is the Battle of Britain Air Show. Dubbed “Thunder in Little Norway,” the show is held in the heart cottage country at the Midland-Huronia Airport on July 17^th and 18^th, 2010.

Like many air shows and exhibitions, the Battle of Britain Air Show has a mandate to educate, preserve, and protect aviation while at the same time honoring war veterans and aviation pioneers. These shows cater to history buffs and aviation enthusiasts tens of millions strong throughout North America according to the International Council of Air Shows, who also reports that air show attendance is encouragingly on the rise.

The show returns after a decade-and-a-half long hiatus thanks to (not uncommonly) the tireless work of countless volunteers to celebrate the 70^th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the Battle of Norway. Most of the warbirds on display on the ground will also be putting on a show in the air. Organizers claim to have assembled the largest number of flying British World War II war birds and trainers in North America including a Spitfire, a Hurricane, and the only currently flying BF 109E Messersmidt.

Air shows are the places where negative media depictions of aviation can be counter-balanced. Where a tragic though spectacular newsworthy incident can be seen as an unfortunate rarity, not to diminish or overshadow the great and important things aviation does for us all each and every day.

They are celebrations of the wonder of aviation for fans of all ages. But there’s an extra special importance when it comes to tomorrow’s aviators… today’s children. The future of aviation lies with them. How about taking the kids out to a nearby air show next weekend?

Eyes to the skies. Fly safe(r).