Plans for Airbourne, Eastbourne’s international air show have got off to a flying start this year with the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon and Vulcan cold war bomber all confirmed to fly at the free, four day air show which returns from 13 – 16 August.

Featuring new look Union Jack tailfins, the world renowned RAF Red Arrows display team will wow crowds on the seafront, beaches and reopened pier with three performances over Eastbourne, in one of the UK’s busiest free flying displays.

Joining the line-up, the RAF Eurofighter Typhoon will provide a fast jet highlight on three days and historic fans can look forward to the return of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, which features a four-ship formation from the Lancaster, Spitfire, Hurricane and Dakota.

The world’s only flying Vulcan bomber makes an appearance as it nears retirement and the Tutor returns to display its agility, along with a new variant Hawk T2 duo display.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism & Leisure, Cllr Carolyn Heaps said “Eastbourne has a special place in its heart for the Red Arrows so we are delighted to welcome back the world’s best aerial display team. Many special memories are made thanks to this amazing team, from meeting fans on the ground, to marriage proposals and even themed fireworks! Coupled with the awesome Typhoon and what could possibly be the last chance to see the imposing sight and sound of the Vulcan, we are in for a real treat this year.”

The four day show also features plenty of fun on the ground, including a military exhibition, live music on the beach stage, children’s entertainment areas, helicopter pleasure flights, evening concerts and fireworks, which move to a new slot on Saturday night.

Now in what could possibly be its final display season, the Vulcan cold war jet is set to perform over Eastbourne in a remarkable return to the show, after record donations from Airbourne fans last year. The bomber, which last visited the show in 2012, is a rare sight and unique to the display circuit.

The flying display is part funded from public donations each year at Airbourne, thanks to local resident David Dickens and collections organised by Marco and Cathy Giorgi along with the Rotary Clubs of Sovereign Harbour and Hailsham, with 30% of the proceeds also passed onto local charities.

Shadow Cabinet Member for Tourism & Leisure, Cllr Philip Ede added “With the Red Arrows and the legendary Vulcan Bomber sharing top billing, this promises to be the most popular air show yet, providing a boost to the resort in more ways than one. The factor that makes this appearance of the Vulcan possible is the generous contribution of one particular fan, who deserves our thanks. I know we’ve said it before but this really may be the last time we see this aircraft perform – so make the most of it!”

Eastbourne’s 23rd Airbourne will also mark roughly one year since the pier fire of 2014, which closed the Victorian landmark just two weeks before the air show. The pier, which reopened two months later, is a popular viewing platform during the show and includes shops, restaurants, tea rooms, a bar, nightclub and fishing platform.

Airbourne returns from 13 – 16 August 2015 and entry is free, with more flying displays to be announced. All flying is subject to RAF operational commitments, weather and serviceability.

To beat the crowds, there are exclusive seating areas available at the Bandstand and exclusive hospitality available on the Western Lawns with tickets on sale now.

For more information or to book online visit www.eastbourneairshow.com.

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