History of Aviation & Airshows at Southport
Southport Aerospace Centre was established as a not-for-profit, non-share corporation in 1992 to manage the assets of the former Canadian Forces Base Portage la Prairie, which was originally established in 1940 as a training base for military pilots. After the transition from CFB Portage to Southport occurred, military pilot training continued through the 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School. The training was originally provided under contract by Bombardier until 2005 when it was succeeded by a new contract with Allied Wings (now KF Aerospace - Defence Programs) until present.
Southport has a rich history of military flight training, including hosting several air shows. The first Manitoba Air Show took place in 1995 and again in both 2006 and 2007. Over the years there have been a number of special events at Southport including demonstrations from the CF Snowbirds. Southport and KF Aerospace, with the support of 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, have partnered once again to host the Manitoba Air Show. We take pride in the rich history of aviation at Southport and look forward to what the future has to offer!
Directions to Southport
The next Manitoba Airshow will take place at Southport Airport, located 3 km south of Portage la Prairie and approximately 70 km west of Winnipeg.
Rules & Guidelines
The following items are prohibited to be brought through the admission gates:
- Beer, wine, liquor or any other alcoholic beverage
- Weapons, firearms, fireworks and explosives
- Pets, other than service animals
- Large umbrellas and tents
- RC aircraft, drones, kites or any flying item
- Laser pointers
- Insulated coolers, large backpacks or duffle bags
- Any other items security personnel deem a security risk.
Security will be monitoring the entire site, if there are any safety or security concerns, they will be dealt with in a serious manner.
You are responsible for the personal items you bring to the Air Show and leave in your vehicle. We encourage you to lock your vehicle doors and do not leave personal item unattended.
FAQ
Where is Southport located?
Southport is located 3km south of Portage la Prairie, MB and approximately 70km west of Winnipeg, MB.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets will be available for purchase online. Early bird tickets are also available for purchase until a designated date. We highly recommend you purchase your tickets before you arrive on-site, as this will decrease wait times to get into the event.
PLEASE NOTE, THE 2024 MANITOBA AIRSHOW IS A CASHLESS EVENT.
Do I need a separate ticket for each day?
Each Manitoba Airshow ticket is valid only for the day it was purchased for. Please ensure you select the correct day when purchasing your tickets. There are weekend passes available to purchase that are good for both days.
Can I buy my ticket at the gate?
We recommend buying your ticket ahead of time, as you will be able to bypass the lines for onsite ticket sales which will expedite your entry into the show.
A limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the gate for an increased cost of $5 per ticket.
In the event that the Manitoba Airshow reaches its capacity, no additional tickets will be sold at the gate. Guests who have purchased tickets ahead of time will still be allowed into the event. Guests who do not already have a ticket will not be able to purchase one if the event reaches capacity.
What payments types will be accepted at the Manitoba Airshow?
For the Safety and ease of vendors and attendees, the 2024 Manitoba Airshow will be a cashless event. Only debit and credit will be accepted on site.
Is there parking available?
General parking is available free of charge. The general parking area consists of a grassy area. We highly recommend carpooling if possible in order to decrease wait times. VIP and accessible parking will also be available. VIP parking is available only with a VIP ticket. Parking on the shoulder of the roads and highways leading to the event is strictly prohibited.
Is there a park and ride option?
The organizers of the Manitoba Airshow event have examined the option of a park and ride and found that it was not feasible. If you would prefer not to drive to the event, we would recommend carpooling with a friend or bicycling. There will be a place to lock up your bike, but you will need to bring your own bicycle lock.
Can I go in and out of the event?
Re-entry is not permitted for guests who leave the event.
Can I fly in to the Manitoba Airshow?
Southport Airport will not be available for fly-ins before the Manitoba Airshow. Anyone who is interested in flying in should contact Portage North Airport (CJZ2).
Is there seating available?
The General Admission area consists of a grass infield. A folding chair or blanket to sit on is recommended. VIP tickets are available that include seating. There will also be seating provided in the Beer Garden.
Is this event accessible?
The Manitoba Airshow is an outdoor event and the ground is uneven in some areas. Anyone with limited mobility is advised to use caution. The seating area consists of a grass infield, but some parts of the show site are paved.
A designated accessible parking area for people with a valid Manitoba Parking Permit will be available. This parking area is on grass.
Accessible bathrooms are available throughout the site.
Is the Manitoba Airshow a non-smoking event?
The Manitoba Airshow is a non-smoking event. Smoking is only permitted in the designated areas. Smoking is not permitted in the parking areas.
Which acts perform on which day?
Please see our Performers & Attractions page for a list of performers. The schedule for aerial performers is the same for both days. Schedule is subject to change.
When should I arrive to the show?
The Airshow Grounds are open to the public from 9AM to 5PM (Sat & Sun)
The Static Display is open to the public from 9AM to 5PM (Sat & Sun)
Flying Events are approximately 12PM to 4:00PM (Sat & Sun)
Patrons are encouraged to arrive on site in the morning to reduce parking lines. This will give you a chance to walk through the static displays and participate in other ground-level entertainment.
What happens if there is bad weather?
It’s highly unlikely that the Manitoba Airshow will be cancelled due to rain. Performers are able to adapt their routines to various weather conditions. The schedule of aerial performances can be adjusted or delayed if weather is a concern. Any announcements regarding weather will be issued on the Manitoba Airshow website and social media. Please be aware that tickets are non-refundable in the event of a weather cancellation. All customers should make their purchases with this in mind.
What happens if it is hot weather?
The Manitoba Airshow is an outdoor event and as such we request that all guests arrive prepared for the weather. This includes appropriate clothing and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Guests may also bring a personal-sized umbrella, though beach umbrellas that puncture the ground are not permitted. Guests are encouraged to bring plenty of water, though there will also be vendors on site with water available.
Shade tents will be available throughout the site, primarily in the kid’s zone. A first aid team is equipped to assess and treat any heat related issues. An air-conditioned building will be available to the first aid team to cool guests down if need be.
What amenities are offered onsite?
- Food concessions
- Beer Gardens
- Souvenir and gift kiosks
- "People-Mover" shuttles between areas onsite and the parking lots
- Portable toilets throughout the show site
- Guest services, including lost and found and first aid
What should I bring to the Airshow?
Some suggestions include:
- Seating - a folding chair or blanket
- Sun protection - sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
- Ear protection - especially recommended for children
- Debit or Credit Card for purchasing food, beverages and other items.
What should I NOT bring to the airshow?
- Pets, with the exception of service animals. Animals are not permitted on the airshow grounds, including the parking area. No pets can be left in the vehicle.
- Alcohol. Any outside alcohol will be confiscated and your ticket will be revoked without refund.
- Tents and beach umbrellas that puncture the ground. Personal-sized umbrellas are permitted.
- Weapons (including knives), firearms, fireworks and explosives
- RC aircraft, drones, kites or any flying item
- Laser pointers
- Hard-sided isulated coolers, large backpacks or duffle bags. A soft sided cooler to carry water is acceptable but subject to secuirty inspection.
- Any other items security personnel deem a security risk.
Security will be monitoring the entire site, if there are any safety or security concerns, they will be dealt with in a serious manner. You are responsible for the personal items you bring to the event and leave in your vehicle. We encourage you to lock your vehicle doors and do not leave personal item unattended.
How can I obtain a media pass?
Please contact us to request a media pass. Television outlets are eligible to apply for up to three media passes, all other outlets can apply for one pass. The pass is valid for both days and includes a parking pass. The Manitoba Airshow is not responsible to replace lost or stolen media passes.
What accommodations are available near the Manitoba Airshow?
Please visit the Portage la Prairie Tourism website for a list of local hotels and campgrounds. The Manitoba Airshow does not allow camping onsite. RV’s or motorhomes are not permitted to park in the parking lot.
