Airshow fans in Eastbourne will not see the Red Arrows this year after poor weather delayed the team’s return from North America.
The RAF Aerobatic Team had been due to appear at Airbourne following a tour of the United States, but remains delayed in north-eastern Canada.
The Red Arrows’ Hawk jets have a limited range and cannot be refuelled in the air, meaning their Atlantic crossing must be completed in several stages. The journey also requires suitable weather conditions and support aircraft to be in place.
The RAF said safety would determine when the team could continue its journey home. Its planned appearances at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week have also been cancelled.
Airbourne will still go ahead along Eastbourne seafront from Thursday 13 until Sunday 16 August, with four days of flying and ground-based entertainment.
Organisers have added the B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B to the programme from Friday until Sunday. The Conair Turbo Firecat will also make its Airbourne debut on Saturday and Sunday with a special water display.
Other highlights include the RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, wingwalkers, Royal Navy Black Cats helicopter display team and the Red Devils parachutists.
Visitors can also expect appearances from the P-51 Mustang Marinell, Rich Goodwin’s Jet Pitts, the Starlings Aerobatic Team and the Spirit of Kent Spitfire.
The free event’s main site on the Western Lawns will open from 10.30am until 5pm each day, with military exhibitions, simulators, children’s attractions, food outlets and trade stands.
Flying is expected to begin around lunchtime, although exact timings remain subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and RAF operational commitments.
The four-day event will conclude with a firework display from Wish Tower beach at approximately 9pm on Sunday.
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