This week, we’re excited to announce more additions to the line-up for RIAT26!
Returning to RAF Fairford for the first time since 2016, the Krila Oluje Display Team of the Croatian Air Force will once again take to the skies with their spectacular display of their Pilatus PC-9M aircraft.
On the ground, the German Air Force will also bring a Eurofighter EF2000, with a special livery to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Luftwaffe.
We’re also pleased to confirm that the Royal Canadian Air Force will be bringing both the CC-130J Hercules and CC-150 Polaris. With the Polaris approaching retirement, this is one of the final opportunities to see this iconic aircraft in person.
Completing this week’s additions, the Royal Air Force will also be bringing an F-35B Lightning II for the static display line-up. With less than two months to go until RIAT26, preparations are in full swing at Douglas Bader House!
Europe’s only flying MiG-17 and F-86 Sabre jets will perform rare displays at Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow this summer.
The UK’s biggest free seafront airshow returns from 13 – 16 August with a packed programme of fast jets, historic aircraft and aerobatic displays, including three performances from the RAF Red Arrows.
The iconic MiG-17 Cold War fighter jet, based in Poland, will take flight over the weekend with a thunderous new display for fast jet fans. Following its significant restoration, Airbourne will be one of the first few public events to see the aircraft – and its incredible afterburner – in action!
Also joining the show is the North American F-86 Sabre with a thrilling display of speed. The French based Canadair swept wing fighter jet will perform on Thursday, in what will be its first ever visit to the south coast.
Fans of aerobatics can also look forward to The Firebirds in action on Thursday and Friday – a duo specialising in tight formation aerobatics using Van’s RV-4 aircraft.
These latest displays to be announced join a world class line-up, which already includes the RAF Red Arrows, Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Tutor, Royal Navy Black Cats, Jet Pitts, The Starlings, Stampe Formation Team and the Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers.
They are joined by two trailblazing female aviators making their Eastbourne debut this year – six-times French champion and the first woman to compete in the Red Bull Air Race, Mélanie Astles in the Extra 330SC, and National Aerobatics and Tiger Trophy winner, Isabel Rutland in the P-51 Mustang ‘Marinell’.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Place, Cllr Jenny Williams said, “Airbourne has always been first and foremost a fast jet show – whether it’s the modern day Typhoon, the thundering MiG-17, the historic F-86 Sabre or the smooth precision of the Red Arrows – this year fans will have their pick of some of the most astounding engineering feats and astonishing aerobatics on the airshow circuit!
“If you like the roar of a fast jet then please do support the show and keep it flying. You can reach hundreds of thousands of spectators with our sponsorship and advertising packages or join the Ambassador programme with a monthly donation from just £2 – there is even an exclusive gold badge to collect at the show.”
Voted UK’s Best Free Airshow in 2025 (by Airscene), Airbourne hospitality is now on sale with a choice of fine dining, premium BBQ or private cabanas – each with drinks packages, along with exclusive seating areas, car parking and pre-ordering for the souvenir programme and pin badge, sponsored by PRG Marketing Communications.
In addition to RAF, Army and Navy ground displays, shopping villages, simulators and children’s entertainment areas, tribute concerts will perform each evening at the Bandstand, with a firework finale on Sunday evening – subject to sponsorship.
The current flying line-up includes:
Red Arrows (Fri – Sun)
Typhoon (Fri – Sun)
Tutor (Fri – Sun)
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight: Dakota, Hurricane & Spitfire (Thurs – Sun)
Royal Navy Black Cats solo display (Thurs – Sun)
Melanie Astles Extra 330SC (Thurs – Sun)
P-51 Mustang ‘Marinell’ (Thurs – Sun)
Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers (Thurs – Sun)
F-86 Sabre (Thurs)
Stampe Formation Team (Thurs – Fri)
The Firebirds (Thurs – Fri)
MiG-17 (Sat – Sun)
Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts (Sat – Sun)
The Starlings (Sat – Sun)
Airbourne 2026 is supported by Bella & Duke, Caffyns, Cloud Connx, Eastbourne Hospitality Association, Eastbourne News, Elite Medical, Environment First, Euro Self Drive, Frontier Fireworks, Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance, The Lansdowne, More Radio, Neighbourhood First, NTB Outdoors, PRG Marketing Communications, Pureprint Group, The View Hotel, Visit Eastbourne and Zephyr Tech.
Supporting the show is Caffyns – the Eastbourne Airshow Official Pilot Transfer Sponsor dealership – providing net zero emissions pilot and logistic vehicles.
Fans can support the show and keep Airbourne flying high with a one off donation or a monthly pledge from as little as £2 a month at www.SaveAirbourne.com, with all proceeds supporting the flying displays at the show. For more information or to book hospitality, seating, parking, trade space, sponsorship/advertising, pre-order a programme or make a donation visit www.EastbourneAirshow.com.
This week, we’re pleased to confirm not one, but two RIAT debuts for RIAT26! Joining the static line-up is the Czech Air Force’s brand-new L-39NG Skyfox, alongside the first-ever RIAT appearance from the Kuwait Air Force’s KC-130J Hercules.
Looking to the skies, we’re adding even more power to the flying display. Saab will be bringing their latest Gripen E as part of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme, promising an impressive showcase of modern airpower.
Finally, we’re welcoming two Romanian additions to the static display. The Romanian Air Force’s Antonov An-30 will be making a rare visit to the UK, joined by an IAR 823, presented in Romanian markings and operated by a civilian owner.
While most enclosures are sold out on Saturday, Sunday still has availability and is a great day to experience the show.
Whether you’re wanting to watch the flying display from a grandstand, from a relaxed atmosphere in a garden setting, or something in between, we have an option to suit everyone. Choose from fully catered or keep it flexible with a range of catering options to choose from that can be purchased on the day. Our enclosures are a perfect base to explore the static displays and all that the rest of the showground has to offer.
Another Take-Off Thursday brings a wave of exciting updates, with a RIAT debut leading the way. The Hungarian Air Force has confirmed it will showcase its impressive Embraer KC-390 Millennium on static display for the first time – a standout addition to look forward to.
We’re also delighted to welcome the Lithuanian Air Force with one of their newly updated LET 410 aircraft, alongside the return of familiar favourites including the RAF Microlight Flying Association.
Last chance for Friday Early Bird prices. Ends on Monday 4th May at midnight!
This is your final chance to grab a Friday General Admission ticket at the Early Bird price before they increase to full price on Monday 4th May at midnight. You know you’ll kick yourself if you miss this opportunity. Buy now before it’s too late.
And if you want to make your day even more special with an enclosure upgrade, you’ll need to move fast as all Saturday enclosures apart from Altitude are now completely SOLD OUT! With only 100 spaces remaining in Altitude, these final upgrades will go in a flash. Friday and Sunday enclosure upgrades are still available though, so you can still elevate your experience and make your weekend unforgettable.
Hampshire, UK; The Hampshire Air Festival has confirmed one of the most iconic and rare aircraft to appear on the UK airshow circuit in 2026, the FUBAR Aviation MiG-17F (Lim-5), adding a real highlight to the festival’s opening year flying display. And just in time before ticket prices increase on 1 May.
Taking place at Thruxton Aerodrome on 12–13 September 2026, Hampshire Air Festival is a new two-day aviation weekend created to celebrate “The Age of Flight” through flying displays, static aircraft and a Saturday evening extravaganza of afterburners from the MiG-17, pyro aerobatics, a drone display and fireworks.
Organisers say the event has been designed to tell the story of aviation across more than a century, from early flight through to vintage warbirds and aerobatic displays to more modern jets.
The confirmation of the MiG-17F is a significant statement of intent for a first-year show. Travelling from Poland, the aircraft is currently the only airworthy MiG-17F in Europe and one of the rarest jet displays available to airshow audiences.
For a newly established airshow to secure such a type for its debut year underlines the scale of the programme being assembled and the organisers’ ambition to create an event with genuine appeal for both enthusiasts and the wider public.
Built in 1958 at WSK Mielec, the aircraft is a Polish-produced Lim-5, a licensed version of the Soviet MiG-17F. The type was a key Cold War fighter, known for its swept-wing design, strong low-altitude agility and rugged construction. Powered by a Klimov VK-1F turbojet with afterburner, the MiG-17F delivered improved high-speed handling over the MiG-15 and remained in service with air forces around the world for decades.
Alongside the MiG-17F, Hampshire Air Festival has also already announced a growing and varied flying display programme featuring a mix of military, heritage and modern aircraft, including the Royal Air Force, and reflecting the event’s broad ambition to appeal to enthusiasts and families alike.
Visitors will be able to see the MiG-17F on both days of the festival. On Saturday it will feature in the Evening Extravaganza with afterburner passes, while on Sunday it will return for a full daytime flying display.
Jonathan Moore, the event organiser said “the team was thrilled to welcome such a rare and historically important jet to the inaugural event. The MiG-17F’s presence reflects the festival’s aim to combine spectacle with substance, creating a weekend that will appeal to enthusiasts, families and those discovering aviation for the first time.”
Hampshire Air Festival takes place at Thruxton Aerodrome on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026.
Ticket prices will be increasing on 1 May after discounts have been available for the past 5 months.
This week brings another exciting addition to the flying display for RIAT26.
We’re delighted to confirm the Italian Army’s participation, who will be showcasing the rare Agusta Mangusta in the flying display, which is a welcomed addition. They will also be bringing a Boeing Chinook for the static display.
On the ground, even more aircraft have been confirmed, including a Scottish Aviation Bulldog, a SIAI Marchetti SF.260D in Italian Air Force livery, and a British Aerospace Hawk. This will also mark RIAT’s first appearance of this Hawk in civilian hands. With less than three months to go until RIAT26, discussions with participating Air Arms continue as we work to bring even more aircraft announcements in the coming weeks.
Final call: RIAT26 enclosure offers end this Sunday
April is nearly over, and so are our enclosure offers for RIAT26.
At midnight, Sunday 26th April, all discounted enclosure packages come to an end.
An enclosure is the best way to experience RIAT – giving you a dedicated space, premium viewing, and a more relaxed way to take in the action away from the busiest areas. It’s about comfort, atmosphere, and making the most of your day.
For those planning a more flexible visit, general admission tickets are still available and remain a fantastic way to enjoy RIAT26. They give you access to all the flying displays, plenty of viewing areas across the site, and the full atmosphere of the show. Secure your RIAT26 experience now – whether that’s general admission or an enclosure upgrade. But remember, all enclosure discounts end this Sunday at midnight!
The organisers of the highly acclaimed Midlands Air Festival are predicting a sell out weekend for this world-famous show. Combining an international air display and one of Europe’s largest hot air balloon events, this unique aviation festival attracts an audience from all over the Midlands, the UK and Europe.
The annual event features the spectacular red jets of the RAF Red Arrows, the historic Spitfire, Hurricane and DC3 Dakota of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the stunning mass parachute team of the RAF Falcons. This year’s highlights include from Poland the cold war Mig 17F fighter jet; from France the big beefy Conair Firecat which is a fire bomber and will be dropping over 3,000litres of water in 4 seconds; the two ground attack jets of the Strikemaster Pair and the largest civilian formation air display team in the UK – Team Raven.
Also in the air show line up is the giant four engine WW2 Flying Fortress B17; a Mustang P51 fighter; the Royal Navy Swordfish; the graceful Catalina Sea Plane; the historic bi planes of the Stampe display team; the big Vietnam era turbo prop Bronco and the insane high energy aerobatics of the Extra.
Added to these there will be two very rare famous helicopters in the ‘Rescue Pair’ one is the Westland Sea King and the other is the Westland Whirlwind, the only airworthy example in the world. Also in the rotary department is the ever-popular tiny Callidus Gyrocopter. Others include, the WW2 warbird trainer the Harvard, the evocative Rolls-Royce Spitfire, the modern ‘star ship’ Twinstar and from France the gorgeous Spartan Executive, which is a 1930’s propeller version of a modern executive jet, plus a selection of superb large radio-controlled aircraft.
For the balloon enthusiasts there will be over 100 giant multicoloured round hot air balloons plus a fabulous collection of massive ‘special shape’ character balloons, including a rare appearance of the absolutely enormous Harley Davidson motor bike, not seen in the UK for over 40 years! Other popular favourites include Iggy the Purple Dragon; Thomas the Tank Engine; Smiley Scarcrow; Finley the Turtle and Busby the King’s Guardsman to name but a few of the 27 special shapes attending this year as part of the largest line up of uniquely shaped balloons in Europe.
This amazing festival kicks off with the signature ‘Nightfire’ event which starts with an afternoon air display, then a massive balloon ascent, pyrotechnic air displays, the iconic fireglow with dancing balloons and fire show then a spectacular firework finale. These dazzling displays and glowing giants all take place in the estate grounds of the historic Ragley Hall near Alcester.
The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust is set to inspire the next generation of aircraft pilots with its new eDrone racing competition, Race to RIAT.
Launched alongside partners the British Esports Federation and DXC Technology, a leading enterprise technology and innovation partner, the competition, which will involve schools and RAF Air Cadets between the ages of 14-16 years old, will see young people battle it out across six weeks before reaching the final race at the Royal International Air Tattoo this summer.
The races are created using Velocidrone software, allowing participants to join from across the country. The competition is composed of six different tracks with races taking place between April 20th and June 14th. The 16 fastest participants will battle it out at RIAT in the grand final to scoop first place on the podium.
Hannah Langford, Head of Charity Development at RAFCT said: “We’re proud to launch Race to RIAT, a new FPV simulator racing competition which brings STEM learning and aviation awareness directly into classrooms and Air Cadet units. By giving teenagers the chance to design, fly, and race drones, we’re helping young people develop technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to pursue future pathways in engineering, technology and aviation.
“With the support of DXC Technology, this initiative demonstrates how innovative learning experiences can spark ambition and open doors, showing young people that the future of flight and technology is something they can be part of today.”
“At DXC Technology, we recognise the critical importance of equipping young people with the digital and engineering skills needed for the future workforce,” said Derek Allison, General Manager, DXC UK & Ireland “Race to RIAT provides an exciting and engaging way for students to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), develop problem?solving capabilities and build the confidence to pursue careers in technology. We’re delighted to partner with the RAF Charitable Trust and British Esports to help inspire and nurture the next generation of innovators.”
The activity allows young people to engage in a STEM activity with particular emphasis on cyber and digital skills, as well as engineering concepts, problem solving and air mindedness. Hosting the final on the Inspire Stage at RIAT, as well as celebrating the success of competitors, provides a showcase for esports as a way in which young people can fulfil their potential in air, space and technology.
The series is a three-way partnership between RAFCT, the British Esports Federation and DXC Technology, which will see the three organisations collaborating to deliver the competition, alongside a series of talks and presentations on the Inspire Stage highlighting the range of careers pathways which esports and gaming can open.
Kalam Neale, Head of Education at the British Esports Federation said:
“Through the combination of esports, eDrone racing and education, British Esports are proud to announce Race to RIAT in partnership with the RAF Charitable Trust and DXC Technologies. Race to RIAT presents an opportunity for school pupils and cadets to engage in their passion, compete and develop key transferable skills that will support their future career aspirations and open up a whole new world of opportunities in STEM, digital and aviation industries connecting the next generation of talent with the jobs of the future.”
We’re delighted to confirm the return of the Turkish Air Force to RIAT26, with exciting contributions both in the air and on the ground. We’re particularly pleased to welcome back the Turkish Stars display team, marking their first UK appearance since 2010! Alongside their flying display, the Turkish Air Force will also bring the iconic F-4E Phantom II to the static line-up as part of this year’s ‘Fighter Meet’ theme.
Continuing with the theme, we’re also pleased to confirm a MiG-15 for the static display, presented in Polish Air Force markings – a fantastic addition showcasing a true Cold War classic.
Supporting our ‘Royal Flight’ theme, we’re delighted to include the Royal Chipmunk in this year’s line-up. This historic aircraft was used to train members of the Royal Family to fly, including His Majesty King Charles III, making it a particularly special addition to RIAT26. We continue to work closely with our international partners, with some exciting developments in progress for this year’s show. More flying display announcements will be coming next week as we get closer to July.
Make sure you’ve secured your tickets. General Admission tickets give you access to all the thrilling flying displays and showground attractions, while Enclosure packages offer an upgraded experience with exclusive viewing areas and premium facilities.
Thinking of Altitude on Saturday? Now’s the time to book Tickets are currently 5% off, but prices will rise to full price at midnight on Sunday 19th April – don’t miss the chance to save.
First air show, Season Premiere, on 10 May sets tone for exciting season ahead
Old Warden, 15 April 2026 – The excitement is building at Shuttleworth, with its first air show of the summer, Season Premiere, taking place on 10 May 2026.
Season Premiere sets the tone for an unforgettable start to Shuttleworth’s air show season, delivering a full day of entertainment for visitors of all ages. The air display will showcase an impressive line?up of visiting aircraft, with several making their first-ever appearance at Shuttleworth. This includes the XtremeAir XA41, specifically designed for energetic aerobatic displays, as well as one of the most famous transport aircraft in aviation history, the Douglas C-47 Dakota. Also joining Shuttleworth will be the Royal Air Force’s Falcons Parachute Display team. Alongside these visitors, Shuttleworth’s own world?class Collection, including the world’s oldest airworthy aircraft (the Blériot Type XI) and iconic Supermarine Spitfire and Westland Lysander, will fly.
The excitement continues beyond the airfield, with a packed programme of ground attractions. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a complimentary fun fair, explore a variety of stalls, enjoy delicious street food, and dive into hands-on STEM activities in the Discovery Zones. A vintage bus service will transport visitors to Shuttleworth House, once home to Collection founder Richard Shuttleworth and now a celebrated venue for events and weddings. Elsewhere, the Clayton and Shuttleworth Heritage Team will demonstrate historic machinery in action. Visitors can also explore Swiss Garden, a unique example of a Regency garden in the ‘Swiss Picturesque’ style, offering a tranquil contrast to the excitement of the show.
Marc Boult, Head of Visitor Operations at Shuttleworth, commented:“The first show of the season, our Season Premiere always has a unique buzz about it as staff, volunteers and visitors alike enjoy seeing a wonderful array of aircraft back in the skies above Old Warden. The excitement surrounding the start of the season is well deserved – we have an exceptional season ahead, featuring more European visiting displays than ever before and some very special anniversaries to celebrate.”
The Season Premiere Air Show is the first of seven spectacular shows taking place at Shuttleworth this year:
• Wings & Wheels Air Show – 31 May
• Festival of Flight Air Show – 27-28 June
• Summer Air Show – 25 July
• Flying Proms Air Show – 15 August
• Military Air Show – 29 August
• Race Day Air Show – 4 October
To find out more about the air show season and book your tickets, click here.
All aircraft appearances are subject to weather and serviceability.
