CLEVELAND — A tradition thousands of Clevelanders look forward every Labor Day Weekend is a no-go this year. The Cleveland National Air Show, scheduled to take place Sept. 5-7, has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“After considering the health and safety of the thousands of people involved in the Air Show as well as the large crowds that gather outside the gates on beaches, buildings, parks, etc., the Executive Committee of the Cleveland National Air Show, Inc. Board of Trustees made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Air Show. Though regrettable, this action was necessary to protect the spectators, exhibitors, volunteers, vendors, performers, concessionaires, sponsors and employees,” said Air Show Executive Director Kim Dell in a news release.
The Air Show has been a tradition in Northeast Ohio since 1964. Every year, it attracts 60,000 to 100,000 visitors to the Burke Lakefront Airport, making it one of the largest annual events in the region.
The cancelation of the air show comes at a big cost for the City of Cleveland. The air show has an annual economic impact of more than $10 million to the city. On average, attendees come from 35 states and several countries, including Japan, Australia, Canada, Germany and Italy.
“On behalf of the Cleveland National Air Show Board of Trustees, we would like to thank all of the sponsors, vendors, dedicated volunteers and fans for their continued support and patronage. It is their efforts and community involvement that has kept the Air Show flying for 50+ years,” said Air Show Executive Director Kim Dell.
Organizers said they are already planning and proceeding for the 2021 Cleveland National Air Show featuring the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
