The AéroSalon Air Show 2024, held on June 1st and 2nd at the École Nationale d'Aérotechnique (ÉNA) in Longueuil, Quebec, was a thrilling event for aviation enthusiasts. Despite being smaller in scale compared to other air shows, it featured captivating performances from various aerobatic and military aircraft. The skilled pilots showcased the diverse capabilities and history of aviation, offering both an exciting and educational experience for attendees.
The event's schedule ran from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with air shows taking place between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. Visitors explored around sixty aircraft, with opportunities to visit some, meet and get autographs from pilots, and discover cutting-edge aerospace facilities. Additionally, the show featured an industrial zone with numerous companies and activities designed for both children and adults, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the aerospace industry.
Below is a summary of the aerobatics and their performances that took place during the air show.
The Bell CH-146 Griffon
Description: The Bell CH-146 Griffon is a utility tactical transport helicopter used by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
Performance: Known for its versatility, the CH-146 Griffon is capable of performing a wide range of missions. It features a powerful engine, advanced avionics, and can be equipped with various mission-specific equipment. The Griffon can perform troop transport, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations, often demonstrating its agility and reliability in diverse environments.
Pilatus PC-12/45 Chrono Aviation
Description: The Pilatus PC-12/45 is a single-engine turboprop aircraft renowned for its versatility and reliability. It is utilized for utility transport, executive travel, and medical evacuation missions. Its spacious cabin and impressive payload capacity make it ideal for accommodating passengers or medical patients with ease.
Performance: With advanced avionics and a rugged design, the PC-12/45 navigates challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions effortlessly. Its powerful engine ensures excellent performance, while its adaptability allows for seamless operations in diverse environments. From ferrying passengers to remote destinations to swiftly transporting medical patients, the Pilatus PC-12/45 stands as a reliable workhorse in aviation operations.
Yakovlev Yak-55M flown by Martin Hivon
Description: The Yakovlev Yak-55M is a single-engine, all-metal aerobatic aircraft developed by the Yakovlev Design Bureau in Russia. It is used for aerobatic competition and training.
Performance: Renowned for its exceptional maneuverability and robust construction, the Yak-55M exceled in performing high-precision aerobatic maneuvers and is a favorite in aerobatic competitions.
Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds (CT-114 Tutors)
Description: The Snowbirds are the RCAF's aerobatic flight demonstration team, flying the CT-114 Tutor jet, known for its agility and precise maneuvers. They are used for demonstration and training.
Performance: The Snowbirds performed thrilling aerial stunts, formations, and synchronized maneuvers.
Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornet
Description: The CF-18 Hornet is a versatile, twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft used by the RCAF. It is used for air defense, ground attack, and training.
Performance: Known for its speed, agility, and powerful afterburners, the CF-18 showcased high-speed maneuvers and combat capabilities.
CJ6A Nanchang flown by Daniel Fortin
Description: The CJ6A Nanchang is a Chinese military trainer aircraft, used for basic flight training. It is used for training and aerobatics.
Performance: Daniel Fortin displayed the aircraft's training maneuvers and aerobatic skills.
Salto H-10 Glider flown by Mario Hamel
Description: The Salto H-10 is a high-performance sailplane designed for aerobatics. It is used for aerobatic gliding.
Performance: Mario Hamel performed graceful aerobatic maneuvers without an engine, showcasing the glider's capabilities.
Northern Stars (Three Aviat Pitts S2Bs)
Description: The Aviat Pitts S2B is a well-known biplane used extensively in aerobatic competitions.
Performance: Greg Hume-Powell, Todd Farrell, and Mario Hamel will fly synchronized aerobatic routines, demonstrating the Pitts S2B's agility and precision.
T-33 Shooting Star flown by Bill Culberson
Description: The T-33 Shooting Star, also known as the Lockheed T-33, is an American-built jet trainer aircraft that played a crucial role in the training of military pilots. It is used for training, target towing, testing, and even combat in some instances and demonstration at Air Shows.
Performance: Bill Culberson showcased the T-33's speed and maneuverability.
Thom Richard (P-40 Warhawk)
Description: The P-40 Warhawk is an American single-engine, single-seat, all-metal fighter and ground-attack aircraft used during World War II. It is considered for historical demonstration.
Performance: Thom Richard demonstrated the P-40’s capabilities, providing a historical perspective on its use in combat.
Bombardier (Canadair) CL-415 SuperScooper
Description: The CL-415 is a Canadian amphibious aircraft designed for aerial firefighting and water bombing.
Performance: The CL-415's performance highlighted its ability to scoop water and make precise water drops, essential for firefighting operations.
In addition to the Air Show, there was an industrial zone bringing together many companies and activities for young and old which featured several dedicated zones.
ENA (École Nationale d'Aérotechnique) Zone: Explore the ÉNA programs through presentations, interactive activities, and aircraft exhibitions, with staff and students that were available to answer your questions.
Family Area (Presented by Bombardier): For "Family Zone" ticket holders, offering reserved stands and exclusive family entertainment, located near inflatable games.
Industry Zone (Presented by Airbus): Meet various players in Quebec's aerospace industry and learn about job opportunities and the sector's dynamism.
Prestige Area (Presented by Aéro Montréal): For "Prestige Zone" ticket holders, providing the best seats, a terrace with a wooden floor and marquee, free snacks, a donut bar, and a paid alcohol bar. Free appetizers are available from 4:30 p.m.
Innovation Zone (Presented by Pratt & Whitney): Showcases innovative aerospace projects, including scientific projects from College Centers for Technology Transfer headed by the Aerospace Technology Center (CTA) and displays from the École de Technologie Supérieure (ÉTS).
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