The Ultimate Guide to Airshow Pilots at the Abbotsford International Airshow 2026

The Abbotsford International Airshow (AIA) is a premier event that showcases the incredible skills of some of the world’s best airshow pilots. These pilots perform breathtaking manoeuvres, leaving spectators in awe of their precision and bravery.

But have you ever wondered what goes into creating a stunt flying routine for the airshows? And who can you expect to see performing at AIA 2026? This blog post will provide you with all the answers.

How Do Airshow Pilots Create Their Routine?

Creating an airshow routine is an art form that combines creativity, skill, and strategy. Here’s how pilots develop their breathtaking performances:

• Conceptualization: Pilots start by conceptualizing a routine that showcases their unique skills and style. The most important part of conceptualization is “choosing the music they will use for their routine.”
• Choreography: The routine is choreographed to include a mix of high-energy manoeuvres, graceful aerobatics, and dramatic stunts. The idea is to let the pilots’ personalities shine through the choreography.
• Feedback and Refinement: Pilots often seek feedback from peers and mentors. They refine their routines based on this input to ensure maximum impact and safety.

Which Airshow Pilots Will Perform at AIA 2026?

The Abbotsford International Airshow 2026 promises an exciting lineup of talented airshow pilots who will dazzle the audience with their incredible performances. Here are three of the star pilots to watch out for:

Melissa Burns

Melissa Burns is renowned for her dynamic aerobatic routines that combine precision with flair. At the young age of 22, she became the youngest female member of the USA Unlimited Aerobatic Team in history. Since then, Burns has been part of many competitions and events, always raising the bar of what’s possible in aerobatic aviation.

Burns’s unique style captivates audiences. Her performances blend technical prowess with artistic expression, making her a favourite at airshows worldwide.

During the Abbotsford International Airshow 2026 you will be able to see Melissa Burns do what she does best in her Edge 540 airplane, a high-performance aerobatic aircraft widely known for its exceptional aerobatic capabilities.

Aaron Fitzgerald – Red Bull Helicopter

Aaron Fitzgerald is a master of the air with a career defined by high-stakes precision. A former paratrooper in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, Fitzgerald transitioned to the cockpit and became a highly decorated pilot for the LAPD. “His bravery in the line of duty earned him the Medal of Valor, the department’s highest honour.”

Beyond his service, Fitzgerald is a staple of the film industry. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild, he has flown in over 100 motion pictures and television shows, executing complex aerial sequences for major Hollywood blockbusters. His transition to the Red Bull Air Force was a natural progression for a pilot who consistently operates at the edge of the flight envelope.

Pete McLeod – Red Bull Aerobatics

Pete McLeod‘s story is about as Canadian as it gets. He grew up in Red Lake, Ontario, and “took his first flight in the family bush plane when he was only six weeks old.” By the time most kids were learning to ride a bike, Pete was already comfortable in the cockpit. He earned his pilot’s license at 16, his aerobatics instructor rating at 18, and by 25, he was competing against the best pilots on the planet in the Red Bull Air Race Master Class.

What makes Pete stand out is his “seat-of-the-pants” flying style. Growing up flying in the rugged conditions of Northern Canada gave him a level of intuition that you just can’t teach in a classroom. He’s a fierce competitor with multiple podium finishes and a historic win in Las Vegas under his belt, but he’s also a pilot who truly loves the craft. When he’s not pushing 12 Gs in a race, you’ll likely find him back in a floatplane, exploring the Canadian wilderness.

Get Your Tickets!

The Abbotsford International Airshow 2026 is set to be an unforgettable event, thanks to these incredible airshow pilots. Don’t miss the chance to witness their spectacular aviation performances and experience the thrill of the skies! Get your tickets today!