Florida International Air Show could be rescheduled

PUNTA GORDA, Fla.- Just days after the announcement that the Florida International Air Show in Punta Gorda was canceled, board members tell WINK News they’re doing everything they can to find a way to get the show back on this year’s calendar.

“There’s a lot of disappointment in the fans and also local businesses and the charities as well. They’re all heartbroken and shocked with the announcement,” said Tyler Ezzie, the chairman of the board.

Ezzie tells WINK News they didn’t have any other choice but to cancel the show for this March. They cited a general lack of support paired with additional costs from the county and it being the height of tourist season.

WINK News has learned there will be on last ditch effort to have the air show this year but instead of March it could be in October.

“It is kind of the beginning of our season it’s not in the middle of peak season so it may be more beneficial for hotels and restaurants if the show were to move to that date,” said Ezzie.

He tells us working with other scheduled air shows could also alleviate some of the costs.

“There’s an opportunity to possibly coordinate with shows on the east coast of Florida around the same time period. There would be substantial savings with the acts and the actual transportation to get the acts here to Punta Gorda with them only coming across the state…best case scenario I hope our board decides to move forward and try to save the show and reestablish some community support,” said Ezzie.

The board has asked Charlotte County to reconsider the $10,000 bill for EMS workers this year. Board members say if that cost is taken out and they find more support throughout the community they will likely move forward with planning the air show for this October. If not, they’ll begin looking at whether or not they can afford next year’s show.

The meeting will be Tuesday night. It is not open to the public. Trust WINK News to tell you what the board decides.