TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA - SEPTEMBER 2, 2019: The Canadian Forces Snowbirds put on a show by the CN Tower during the 70th anniversary of the Canadian International Air Show. Getty Images
As summer ends in Toronto, the city hosts the Canadian International Air Show, a tradition that draws crowds to Exhibition Place for an impressive display of civilian and military aircraft. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the event, which has been a highlight of the Labour Day long weekend since its inception in 1946.
The Air Show began with a modest display organized by the National Aeronautical Association of Canada at the de Havilland Canada plant in Downsview Airport. The overwhelming turnout led to the event becoming an annual fixture. Over the years, it has evolved into a major spectacle, featuring top performers like the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the RAF Red Arrows, and the U.S.A.F. F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team.
While the Air Show is celebrated by many as a thrilling and family-friendly event, it also faces significant criticism. For some residents, particularly those in the city center, the noise from the jets is more than just a nuisance—it can be distressing. Critics argue that the loud sounds are reminiscent of the noise experienced in war zones, which can be particularly troubling for refugees who have fled such environments.
Emine Fidan Elcioglu, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Toronto, highlights the sensitivity of the event in a city with a substantial refugee population. She points out that air shows while entertaining, might unintentionally glorify military aggression and overlook the human costs associated with warfare. Her comments reflect a broader concern about the impact of such displays in a diverse and multicultural city.
Rachel Small, a Canadian organizer for World Beyond War, shares similar sentiments. She questions the appropriateness of celebrating with military jets when many Toronto residents have fled war-torn countries where these very planes caused devastation. Small and her group argue that the Air Show serves as a "Disneyland for war," undermining Toronto's image as a welcoming city and promoting militarism rather than peace.
In response to these concerns, Colleen McCourt from the Canadian International Air Show has acknowledged the feedback, stating that the event aims to inspire appreciation for aerospace. However, critics find this justification lacking, especially given that some aircraft featured in the show are designed for combat and destruction.
Additionally, the environmental impact of the Air Show has been a topic of concern. The significant fuel consumption for the aircraft contributes to carbon emissions, raising questions about the event's environmental footprint. With Toronto's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, some activists suggest cancelling the Air Show could be a straightforward step towards achieving this goal.
World Beyond War is actively protesting against the Air Show, organizing rallies and sound level measurements during the event. Their efforts reflect a broader movement questioning the necessity and impact of such displays. They argue that the funds spent on the Air Show could be better allocated to addressing pressing social issues like food insecurity and homelessness.
