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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the CF Day and Air Display Weekend?

8 Wing / CFB Trenton is hosting one of the biggest historical weekends in the country this year. An estimated 50,000 of our "closest friends" are expected to attend this two-day event. The weekend is paying tribute to the following major anniversaries:

Where is the Canadian Forces Weekend and Air Display being held?

The air displays will take place over the aerodrome at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton.

What time does the air display start?

The Canadian Forces Weekend is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday 4 Jul and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday 5 Jul. The Air Display starts at 2:00 p.m. Saturday and 12:00 p.m. Sunday. Click here for more information about the event schedule.

How much does it cost to attend?

Admission is free for everyone.

Will there be signposts and directions on site?

The showground will be very well marked both inside and out. A map of the showground and its facilities will be available at the Visitors' Centre. Click here to see a map for the event.

Can I park on the base/wing?

No, there is no parking available on the base/wing.

Where do I park?

Parking is available at Loyalist College and Centennial Park. Shuttles will be provided for transportation to and from the Wing. Click here for more information.

Is handicap parking available?

Yes, with the appropriate MTO pass/sticker. Please see the website for further information.

Are there any arrangements for handicap parking and wheelchair access?

We are presently working with Quinte West on handicap transport fm Centennial Park in Trenton and another transport company from Belleville.  We have set aside a very limited amount of parking for those who need it.

As for wheelchair assess, the entire event here at the Wing is wheelchair friendly and, with the exception of three buildings holding three exhibits/displays, the rest of the place is flat.  All of the aircraft will be on the flight line and that is flat, this is where everyone will be wandering around visiting the aircraft and displays.  It is also from here that the air display will be seen.

Regarding the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan Memorial Gates Rededication - the parade will take place on the southside of the Wing in front of Wing Headquarters on the parade square (we presently use it for a parking lot).  It too is flat.

When does the last shuttle leave for the parking lots?

11:30 p.m.

Can I take a taxi to the wing/base?

Yes, but you will be let out at the traffic lights on RCAF Road.

Can I cycle to the wing/base?

Yes. Bicycle stands will be available for parking, please bring your own locks. Bicycles will not be allowed onto either the north or south side of the wing/base for safety reasons, due to the high numbers of pedestrians.

What accommodations are available for the weekend?

There are numerous venues available for accommodation in Trenton and the surrounding area. Click here for a complete list.

What events will be happening during the weekend?

The weekend will include aerial demonstrations, static demonstrations of CF aircraft (recent and vintage), Army displays, Naval displays, and a block party at Baker Island. Click here for a complete schedule.

What time is the Rededication Parade?

Everyone MUST be seated by 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning 04 Jul.

What are some of the aerial demonstrations?

Each day will feature an aerial display including the SkyHawks, The Snowbirds including Hawk One, and the CF-18 Demonstration team.

Why are some flights noisier than others?

Atmospheric conditions such as clouds and wind can make an aircraft sound louder on different days.

Should I bring earplugs for the noise?

Yes, aircraft and vehicle engines are very loud.

Can I bring my own lawn chair to watch the air display?

Yes. If it is plastic, not a problem. If it is metal it will need to go through the X-ray machine for security reasons.

Will the Snowbirds be available for pictures and autographs?

Yes, after their performances.

What vintage aircraft will be available for viewing?

Yes, Lancaster Bomber, Chipmunk, Spitfires, Harvards, Tiger Moth, Fleet Finch, P-51, Cornell, just to name a few.

What Army displays are included?

There will be a number of Army displays, from armoured personnel carriers to trucks to small arms displays. People can see up close some of the equipment that Canadian soldiers are using in Afghanistan and around the world.

What Naval displays are included?

We will have an interactive Navy display, as well as a military zodiac inflatable boat with sailors and a Navy Dive display.

Can I take pictures of all the planes and other displays/exhibits?

Yes.

Is the show safe?

Safety is of paramount importance to the Canadian Forces and we are conscious of concerns with respect to safety and noise. All CF Air Shows/Air Displays follow all safety guidelines and regulations as dictated by aviation authorities and hold our performers accountable to the same high safety standards. We also have a well-developed incident plan. Performers and key personnel attend pre-show safety briefings daily and daily debriefs post-show.

Do you have First Aid available?

Yes, St John's Ambulance First Aid Attendants will be on site the entire weekend.

Is there a Visitors' Centre or Booth?

Yes, at the main entrance.

Are there Info Services and a Lost/Found area?

Yes, there are both and they can be found at Visitor Services.

Will there be rest areas?

Yes, given the wide range in ages that might be attending.

Do you have baby changing facilities?

Unfortunately, no.

Can I bring a cooler to the Weekend?

No, due to security and health safety that might result in cross contamination.

Can I bring a picnic lunch?

No, for health and safety reasons.

Will refreshments be available?

Yes, food concessions will be open beginning 1300 Saturday.

How will I pay for food and beverages?

Refreshments will be run on a ticket system. Tickets can be centrally purchased ($1 per ticket). Food item pricing will be a multiple of the ticket.

Can I smoke at the Canadian Forces Weekend and Air Display?

Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Smoking is not permitted in any of the buildings, tents, mechanical shelters, aircraft, hangars, or other DND facilities.

Are there alcoholic beverages available for purchase?

Only beer will be available for purchased in two designated beer tents. Proof of age will be required.

Will there be entertainment at the Block Party on Baker Island?

Yes, the Block Party will feature "Skip Tracer" and "On Tap".

Is there any children's entertainment?

Yes, there will be continuous entertainment provided in the Children's Play area from 1300-1700 on Saturday and 1000-1800 on Sunday.

Will there be souvenirs available?

Yes, souvenirs will be available for purchase, including commemorative calendars, coins, envelopes and clothing. For more information and prices, click here.

What souvenirs are available for the weekend?

Ball caps, t-shirts, polo shirts, coins, first-day covers, calendars, programs, and posters. Click here for more information.

How will I pay for souvenirs?

Cash will be required for the purchase of souvenirs and food tickets. There will be access to ATMs onsite.

Are there Cash ATMs on site?

There are ATMs at three (3) locations: Yukon and Hercules Lodges, and 2 Air Movements Squadron on the airfield.

What can I bring to the Airshow?
Please Bring:

  • Your friends and family!
  • Sunscreen
  • A hat
  • A camera
  • Lawn-chair or blanket
  • Ear-plugs (parents be aware that it may not be suitable to bring infants to the show)
What CAN'T I bring to the Airshow?
  • Please Leave at Home:
  • Your pet
  • Hard-sided coolers
  • Large Back-packs
  • Large pop-up shading tents (umbrellas are okay)

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