Picture: Conceptual pixel art portrayal of Eastbourne Airshow with vintage planes flying over the festive seafront.
Celebrating 30 years of spectacular aviation
The Eastbourne Airshow, also known as Airbourne, is back for its 30th anniversary, promising four days of exhilarating aerial displays and family-friendly entertainment. Running from 15th to 18th August 2024, this year’s event is set to be particularly special, celebrating three decades of what has become one of the UK’s premier free airshows.
Aerial spectacles
The highlight of the event remains its impressive lineup of aerial displays, which this year includes the much-anticipated performances by the Red Arrows, scheduled for Thursday, 15th August. The Red Arrows, renowned for their precision flying and dramatic aerobatics, will take off from RAF Odiham and make their way over Eastbourne at approximately 2:30 PM, providing a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators to the seafront.
In addition to the Red Arrows, attendees can look forward to the thunderous roar of the RAF Typhoon, a display of historic aircraft in the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and a variety of other thrilling performances. New to this year’s lineup is the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight featuring the Draken, a distinctive delta-winged fighter jet. The weekend will also feature a special D-Day Memorial Display, showcasing aircraft such as the Blenheim, Spitfire, and Mustang, commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Highlights of last year’s Airshow 2023
Last year’s Eastbourne Airshow 2023, as showcased on the Airshow’s official YouTube channel, was a spectacular event that featured a dazzling array of aerial displays.
Ground attractions and community engagement
Beyond the skies, the event offers plenty of ground-based attractions. The Military Exhibition Zone will feature interactive displays and recruitment stands from the Royal Air Force and British Army. Families can enjoy the Children’s Entertainment Zone, complete with inflatables and beach play areas, making it a perfect day out for visitors of all ages.
One of the unique aspects of Airbourne is its strong community focus. This year, the event continues to support local charities through its “Airbourne People’s Charity” with collections taking place across the weekend to raise funds for selected local causes. This initiative not only adds a philanthropic aspect to the festivities but also enhances the event’s connection with the local community.
Planning your visit
With over 800,000 visitors expected, planning your visit to Airbourne is crucial. The airshow stretches along a two-mile display line on the seafront, offering multiple vantage points. For those looking to enhance their experience, grandstand seating and upgraded hospitality options are available, providing an elevated view of the aerial performances. Additionally, road closures and parking restrictions will be in place, so visitors are encouraged to use public transport where possible.
For those unable to attend in person, the airshow will also be broadcast live online, ensuring that enthusiasts from all over the world can enjoy the spectacle. The event remains free to attend, thanks to the ongoing support from sponsors and the dedicated efforts of the Eastbourne Borough Council, which continues to champion this annual celebration of aviation.
A milestone in British summer events
As Airbourne celebrates its 30th year, it remains a standout event in the British summer calendar. With a mix of historical tributes, cutting-edge aerobatics, and a vibrant community atmosphere, the Eastbourne Airshow offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and free day out by the seaside, Airbourne 2024 promises to deliver a memorable experience.
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