Iberia Parish Airport authority pitches three-day Labor Day 2027 air show to boost tourism and honor veterans

Mo Sanji, introduced as executive director of the Iberia Parish Airport Authority, told the council on March 25 that organizers plan a three-day air show over the regional airport on Labor Day weekend 2027 under the working name "Warriors and Wings." Mo Sanji said the event is intended to honor veterans and raise the profile of the airport and its operations.

"We want to honor our veterans from Acadiana," Mo Sanji said, describing plans for military demonstration teams, vintage warbird flights and drone light shows. He said the organizers are working with the Aviation Academy of Louisiana and Monroe air-show producers to replicate a model that has drawn large crowds elsewhere.

Craig Seymour of the Aviation Academy of Louisiana, identified by presenters as the show's promoter, said the Monroe organizers are sharing their planning "recipe" and that the local team expects a professional, three-day event with evening drone shows and exhibition flights. Organizers estimated attendance in the tens of thousands and discussed possible gate and parking fees, vendor arrangements and sponsorship packets.

Organizers asked the council and the community for help with sponsorships and promotion. The presenters said proceeds would be shared with veterans groups and local airport partners; they also signaled potential costs for premium rides such as warbird flights and emphasized coordination with safety and sanitation providers.

The council did not vote on the proposal that evening; presenters were invited to continue planning and to provide additional details to committees and staff. Council members expressed interest and said follow-up on logistics, permits and community impacts will be necessary before any formal approvals.