The CNE Air Show lands in Toronto this September with new performers and aircraft

The Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) is landing in Toronto for a sky-high spectacle this upcoming Labour Day long weekend, though the grand conclusion of this year’s CNE will also mark the end of a long tradition.

There’s no denying this summer staple is one of the most anticipated ways to mark the end of the season, so, for anyone gearing up for the iconic event, here’s everything you need to know about the CNE Air Show 2026 happening right here in Toronto.

When it all starts

The 77th Canadian International Air Show will take place from Sept. 5 to Sept. 7, serving as the grand finale of the beloved Canadian National Exhibition (CNE).

As usual, the show will run daily from 12 p.m. to 3:40 p.m. This is a rain-or-shine event, with pilots assessing weather and safety conditions before taking to the skies.

This year’s lineup

Each year brings an impressive roster of performers in the sky across Lake Ontario, and 2026 will be no exception. Avid air show fans will be happy to know several crowd favourites are making their return.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds may just mark their last appearance at the show before taking a hiatus, as they prepare to celebrate 55 years of flying the Canadair CT-114 Tutor, while aerobatic air-racing star Mike Tryggvason returns for his sophomore year at the Canadian International Air Show.

It will likely be the last time the Snowbirds are seen in Toronto skies until the 2030s, ending a longstanding Air Show tradition until replacement aircraft enter service.

Also returning are the CF-18 Demonstration Team and Ontario native Trevor Rafferty, who will once again take to the skies in his Christen Eagle.

Several new performers and aircraft are also joining this year’s lineup.

The Canadian International Air Show 2026 in Toronto will welcome Pink Jet, a non-profit organization that raises awareness for breast cancer through aviation-inspired initiatives. The group will fly the Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros, a military trainer aircraft, painted in bright pink in support of an incredible cause.

Also making its air show debut is the Jack Aces Formation Aerobatic Team, which will showcase three restored P-51 Mustangs during its performance. A complete list of returning performers and newcomers can be found on the event’s official website.

Where to watch

Front-row seats to the daily performances are available in the Exclusive Airshow Zone at Exhibition Place, located at 1095 Lake Shore Blvd. W.

The private viewing area includes perks such as food vendors, first-come, first-served seating, and the opportunity to meet the pilots and their crews at the official autograph tent.

General admission to the Canadian International Air Show 2026 in Toronto starts at $107.99, including all taxes and fees, and tickets are available for purchase online.

For those looking to stretch their dollar (I don’t blame you!), there are also plenty of waterfront parks, patios and free viewing spots where you can take in the one-of-a-kind show over the long weekend.

Originally published on blogTO. 

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