Community Aviation Event welcomes pilots and aircraft from across Alberta and raises $2,250 for 868 YMM Rotary Northstar Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron

Fort McMurray, AB – Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo showed up for aviation this past weekend, enjoying a picture-perfect summer day filled with aircraft, pilots, family activities and community spirit at the Community Aviation Event.

Presented by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority (FMAA) and Alberta Air Tours, the free event welcomed more than 30 pilots and unique aircraft from across Alberta to the former YMM North Terminal. More than 1,000 guests took part throughout the day, getting an up-close look at the aircraft, meeting pilots and connecting with organizations showcasing aviation careers and local tourism.

“The welcome we received in Fort McMurray was incredible,” said Dina Jammaz, President, Alberta Air Tours. “Our pilots loved sharing their passion for aviation with the community, and seeing families connect with the aircraft and the people behind them made this a really special stop. We’re grateful to YMM and everyone who helped make the day such a success.”

The event raised $2,250 for the 868 YMM Rotary Northstar Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (RCACS) through the barbecue by donation, with burgers generously donated by Earls Kitchen + Bar.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we received from the community,” said Jo Day, Chair, Squadron Sponsoring Committee. “Thank you to everyone who stopped by the barbecue, made a donation and took the time to learn more about our organization. Funds raised will support opportunities for our 868 YMM Rotary Northstar RCACS, and it meant a lot to be part of a day that celebrated aviation right here in our community.”

“This was exactly the kind of day we had hoped for,” said Denean Robinson, President & CEO, Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “There was great energy as families explored the aircraft, met pilots and learned more about aviation. Bringing our community together and raising funds for the 868 YMM Rotary Northstar RCACS made the day even more meaningful. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us, and to the partners and volunteers who helped make it such a success.”

Guests also enjoyed aviation and tourism booths, face painting, balloon creations, music by Mike Jones and door prizes, along with drinks and treats from Nicholby’s and Sunkissed Frosty Treats.

FMAA thanks Alberta Air Tours, participating pilots, the 868 YMM Rotary Northstar RCACS, Earls Kitchen + Bar, Superior Propane, Team YMM, volunteers, participating aviation and tourism organizations and vendors who helped bring the event together. Most of all, thank you to everyone who spent their Saturday afternoon celebrating aviation and making it a memorable day on airport campus.