AKRON, Ohio, Sept. 21, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic Goodyear Blimp is returning to the Toronto area for the first time in nearly a decade, continuing its tradition of providing superior aerial coverage of the most-watched television events on the sports and entertainment calendar and thrilling passengers with once-in-lifetime rides onboard the blimp.

The visit marks the first international expedition for Wingfoot Two, the newest blimp in the Goodyear fleet, and will include a flyover of one of the world's greatest landmarks, Niagara Falls. The blimp will then proceed to Toronto to provide aerial coverage of the World Cup of Hockey and the Toronto Blue Jays for television partners, including ESPN and Rogers Sportsnet.

"The blimp has such a powerful connection with those who see it and we are thrilled to be back in the Toronto area on this extended visit," said Seth Klugherz, Goodyear's North American director of marketing. "Through community integration and stunning aerial coverage, the blimp will leave a lasting impression on Canadian consumers – one that we intend to continue."

Wingfoot Two will be stationed at Oshawa Executive Airport during its visit, which extends through October 2. Goodyear's newest airship will appear at some of the biggest events and sites in the Toronto area and Niagara region during its trip with additional surprise appearances throughout its stay. Those who spot the Blimp are encouraged to share photos on social media using the hashtag #TrueNorthBlimp.

Wingfoot Two is scheduled to cross the border into Canada on September 23 (weather permitting). Its flight plans include flyovers of some of Niagara's landmarks including the Niagara River, Clifton Hill neighborhood and Ferris Wheel, Brock's Monument, and Niagara-on-the-Lake before it proceeds to the Toronto area.

Since the first Goodyear Blimp flight in 1925, the iconic airships have appeared at hundreds of the biggest events and landmarks throughout North America and around the world. Wingfoot Two's inaugural flight over Niagara Falls will pay tribute to the region and capture stunning aerial photos to coincide with the Tourism Partnership of Niagara's #the8thwonder campaign to recognize the Niagara region as the Eighth Wonder of the World. 

Wingfoot Two is one of the most technologically advanced airships in the world today. Capable of flying more than 70 mph, Wingfoot Two is a testament to Goodyear's legacy as the world's leading builder and operator of airships. The latest blimp is nearly the length of a U.S. football field and its enhanced gondola provides stunning aerial views.

About Goodyear

Goodyear (NASDAQ: GT), founded in 1898 in Akron, is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 66,000 people and manufactures its products in 49 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com.  

About Goodyear  Canada

Goodyear Canada Inc. is a leading manufacturer of tires for automotive and commercial/industrial markets. The company has operations and offices in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta, in addition to a national network of committed independent retailers. Goodyear Canada is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company of Akron, Ohio.

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SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company