Cape air show back on after team commits to participate

Cape Girardeau will have an air show this year after all.

In February, Cape Girardeau Regional Airport manager Bruce Loy announced the airport had canceled its annual air show after the headliner, the Canadian Snowbirds, pulled out, citing budget cuts.

On Friday, he announced the show is back on, thanks to a call from the Snowbirds.

The Royal Canadian Forces' demonstration jet team had canceled all U.S. appearances this year, but Loy said Friday a Snowbirds representative had contacted him to ask whether he still would be interested in having the show if the team committed to be there.

"I said, 'Of course I'm interested. I've just got to see if my performers are still there and my volunteers are still there,'" Loy said.

He said he is eager for the community to see the Canadian Snowbirds, which fly formations using nine aircraft.

"I really did not want to turn them down, particularly because they're just a fantastic show," Loy said.

The hiccup cost organizers several weeks of planning, but Loy said they should make up for lost time.

"We lost a month and a half of some of the preplanning. We were pretty far ahead, so that did help," he said.

Loy could use more help. He said he is seeking additional sponsors for the show, and he would appreciate more volunteers as well.

Loy said anyone who would like to volunteer can attend the first meeting, set for 6 p.m. Thursday at Sandy's Place restaurant in the airport terminal.

Those interested in sponsoring the show or serving as volunteers can call 334-6230 for more information.

The air show is set for May 17 and 18.

epriddy@semissourian.com

388-3642

Pertinent address:

Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, Cape Girardeau, MO