Rockford AirFest canceled because of budget cuts

ROCKFORD — Federal budget cuts have forced the cancellation of the Rockford AirFest airshow on Labor Day weekend.

The across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration led the Defense Department to halt all aerial demonstrations starting in April. That includes flyovers, jump team demonstrations and participation in civilian air shows.

The Chicago Rockford International Airport looked into the possibility of putting on a Labor Day weekend show without military support. But it announced Thursday that it had concluded that could not be done without sacrificing the standard that the audience has come to expect.

Airport Director Mike Dunn says he’s hopeful the government can come to a resolution on the budget that will allow the show to be held next year.

Those who already purchased tickets will get a refund.