Behind the Scenes of a Toronto Tradition: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Welcomes Canadian International Air Show Performers

For generations, the Canadian International Air Show has been a highlight of Toronto’s Labour Day weekend, bringing spectators to the waterfront to experience world-class aviation and aerial performances.

Ahead of this year’s show, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport welcomed several of the talented pilots and crews participating in the 2026 Canadian International Air Show. Hosted at Stolport FBO, the annual event gave aviation enthusiasts, media, and community members a unique opportunity to get up close to the aircraft and meet the people behind one of Canada’s most iconic aviation traditions.

As owner and operator of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, the Toronto Port Authority plays an important role in supporting waterfront experiences that connect people with Toronto’s aviation heritage. The Canadian International Air Show is one of the city’s most enduring traditions, showcasing the strong relationship between aviation, the waterfront, and the community.

As part of the experience, our YTZ Air Show Insider contest winner, Gregoriy, and his mom received exclusive behind-the-scenes access, including the chance to meet pilots, tour aircraft, and learn more about what goes into preparing for a world-class aerial performance.

We also caught up with Warren Askew, Vice President, Airport at the Toronto Port Authority; Lori Duthie, Executive Director of the Canadian International Air Show; contest winner Gregoriy; and Captain Jeremy Dionne of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds to discuss the excitement, preparation, and partnerships that help bring the Air Show to life each year. Check out the video below.

Events like the Canadian International Air Show are made possible through the collaboration of pilots, crews, organizers, volunteers, airport operators, and community partners. For the Toronto Port Authority and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, supporting these connections is part of a broader commitment to fostering community, celebrating aviation, and contributing to the cultural life of Toronto’s waterfront.

As aircraft once again took to the skies over Toronto Harbour this Labour Day weekend, the Canadian International Air Show reminded us why it remains an enduring part of the city’s story, inspiring generations of aviation enthusiasts while bringing people together along the waterfront.