Florida International Air Show returning to Punta Gorda

PUNTA GORDA, Fla.- The Florida International Air Show is taking flight once again in Punta Gorda after organizers canceled the event in 2015.

The Air Show is scheduled for Oct. 21 through Oct. 23 at the Punta Gorda Airport.

“This is a new chapter for the Florida International Air Show,” said Tyler Ezzi, Air Show Chairman, “the overwhelming community support to bring back the Florida International Air Show is greatly appreciated.”

The 2015 air show was canceled after 35 years because a main sponsor backed out.

“Initially everyone was shocked. They were just — they didn’t believe that show was canceled,” Ezzi said. “We pretty much have been working nonstop trying to bring it back.”

Businesses say the show’s cancellation hurt them and many regular attendees were left disappointed. With the show back, organizers hope the crowds will return.

“It’s extremely thrilling. The prospect of bringing the air show back to the community, back to Southwest Florida — there’s a lot of buzz already begun,” Dana Carr, a Florida International Air Show spokesman, said.

The show is being held in October this year to capitalize on fall weather. Ezzi said it will take additional funds and help from the community to make the comeback a success.

“You know from mustering up community support. We need sponsors, we need volunteers,” he said.

The show’s volunteer board needs to raise $120,000 before the event.