5th annual Wheels on the Runway takes off Sept. 26 with family fun, aircraft, big machines and more
Get ready to roll, climb aboard and look to the skies as the fifth annual Wheels on the Runway returns to YGK Airport on Saturday, Sept. 26, bringing together aircraft, big machines, emergency vehicles, trains and more for a one-of-a-kind family experience — all in support of United Way KFL&A.
Presented by Hartington Equipment, Wheels on the Runway will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at YGK Airport, 1040 Len Birchall Way and is supported by Throttle & Takeoff Sponsor: Kingston Harley-Davidson and AeroAdventure Partner NAV CANADA. Admission to the event is by donation, with 100 per cent of proceeds going directly to United Way KFL&A.
“Wheels on the Runway is a fantastic opportunity for families to get up close to some of the vehicles and equipment that they don't normally get to see — and to experience the airport in a completely different way,” said Aron Winterstein, Airport Manager. “We're proud to bring this event back for another year while helping support the important work of United Way KFL&A in our community.”
There will be plenty to see and do throughout the event, including:
- Get up close with big machines: Hartington Equipment will showcase a selection of Kubota tractors, while City of Kingston, CFB Kingston and Throttle & Takeoff Sponsor Kingston Harley-Davidson and other partners will bring aircraft, farming equipment, motorcycles, snowplowing machines, fire trucks and more.
- Look to the skies: The Canadian Armed Forces Parachute Team, the SkyHawks, is scheduled to make a special airborne appearance, weather conditions permitting.
- All aboard: Families can take a ride on the CN Little Obie train.
- Explore the airport: Visitors can travel between activity stations and collect stamps in their Wheels on the Runway passport. A completed passport includes a free admission coupon to the PumpHouse Museum.
- Discover aviation: NAV CANADA, the event's AeroAdventure Partner, will be on site to help visitors learn more about aviation and Canada's air navigation system.
Getting to Wheels on the Runway
There are only 150 parking spaces available that are first come, first served. The cost for onsite parking will be a minimum donation of $20.00 to the United Way KFL&A, paid by debit or credit on site.
Due to extremely limited parking space at the airport, we strongly recommend alternative transportation methods.
There will be free bike parking provided by Bike Valet Kingston north of the event entrance. Please note bicycles and scooters are not allowed on the runway.
Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the free Kingston Transit shuttle service to Wheels on the Runway, with two dedicated routes operating continuously between 9:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. The routes will connect YGK Airport with key locations including Cataraqui Centre, Gardiners Centre, Centre 70 and Jim Beattie Park, with convenient park-and-ride options available. Shuttles will be clearly marked “Wheels on the Runway” and all Kingston Transit buses are accessible.
Supporting United Way KFL&A
Admission to the event is by donation by cash or card, with 100 per cent of proceeds supporting United Way KFL&A.
“United Way KFL&A is thrilled to be part of Wheels on the Runway once again,” said 2026 United Way KFL&A Campaign Chair Krista Wells Pearce. “Each year, thousands of individuals in the community receive support through United Way funded programs and agencies. Come join us for this fun airport experience and show your support for your community.”
Wheels on the Runway is presented by Hartington Equipment, with Kingston Harley- Davidson as the Throttle & Takeoff Sponsor and NAV CANADA as the AeroAdventure Partner. Special thanks to event partners and supporters Cygnet Aviation and CFB Kingston.
For event details, transportation information and updates, visit the Wheels on the Runway webpage.
About United Way KFL&A
United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington works closely with community partners to ensure that people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live with hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. This vision is realized by building on deep-rooted local community knowledge and relationships to empower people to make an impact.
The United Way raises funds for programs that support immediate needs while also tackling complex social issues collaboratively. Led by volunteers, driven by a small professional staff team, the United Way KFL&A is a unifying force, encouraging people to get involved to support our most vulnerable.
Thanks to the continued generous support of the community, United Way KFL&A is proud to rank fourth among United Ways across Canada in dollars raised related to the size of our market.
Stay up to date by following their social media channels - Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca
Media Contact:
Mandy Pasch, Director, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
