Airbourne Day Three: Typhoon, Red Devils and historic aircraft set for Eastbourne skies

Day three of Eastbourne’s Airbourne International Airshow promises a packed programme of fast jets, historic aircraft, parachutists and aerobatic displays today (Saturday, 15 August).

Saturday has the earliest flying start of the four-day event, with the first display expected from 11.45am. Visitors are being encouraged to arrive early, with the main event site on the Western Lawns opening at 10.30am.

One of the biggest highlights will be the RAF Typhoon, bringing its speed, power and distinctive noise to the Eastbourne seafront.

The Red Devils Army Parachute Display Team will also make its Airbourne debut. The parachutists are expected to jump from up to 10,000 feet before completing an aerial display and landing in the sea.

Fast-jet fans can look forward to the MiG-17, which will perform tight turns, rapid climbs and powerful flypasts during its final scheduled appearance of this year’s show.

Saturday’s latest published flying line-up also includes the Conair Turbo Firecat. The aircraft, which is designed to drop water or fire retardant while tackling wildfires, is appearing over Eastbourne during the weekend.

Historic aircraft take to the skies

A number of historic aircraft will feature during Saturday’s displays.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is expected to bring the Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire to the seafront, providing a flying tribute to those who served.

Visitors can also expect to see Sally B, the famous B-17 Flying Fortress and historic American bomber.

The P-51 Mustang Marinell will continue its Airbourne debut, while the Spirit of Kent Spitfire will make another appearance over the town.

Marinell is being flown by National Aerobatics and Tiger Trophy winner Isabel Rutland, in what organisers have described as the show’s first female-piloted solo warbird display.

Aerobatics and wingwalking

The AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers will step up from their solo weekday performances to a two-aircraft display over the weekend.

Spectators will see wingwalkers performing acrobatics on top of Boeing Stearman aircraft as the pilots complete a formation routine over the sea.

The Starlings Aerobatics Team will also make its first appearance of the event, with further aerial action coming from Rich Goodwin in the jet-powered Pitts Special.

The RAF Tutor Display Team and the Royal Navy Black Cats will complete the military flying programme. The Black Cats’ solo Wildcat helicopter display includes steep climbs, turns and precision manoeuvres.

The latest line-up published by Airbourne organisers does not include the Red Arrows, which had featured in earlier promotional announcements for the 2026 event.

Activities on the ground

There will also be plenty for visitors to explore away from the flying displays.

The Western Lawns will host military exhibitions, trade stands, food and drink outlets, simulators and children’s entertainment.

Visitors will be able to meet representatives from the Armed Forces and learn more about military careers, aviation and engineering.

A pre-flying DJ set will take place at the Bandstand from 10.30am until 11.30am. Saturday’s evening entertainment will feature a Lewis Capaldi tribute show, beginning at 8pm, with doors opening at 7pm.

The main Airbourne site will remain open until 5pm.

Travel advice

Organisers are advising spectators to arrive early because Eastbourne and roads approaching the seafront are expected to be busy.

The Five Acres Field Park and Bus site will be open from 9am until 7.30pm on Saturday. Buses will operate from the Sovereign Centre forecourt from 10am and return services will leave Cavendish Place throughout the day.

Visitors can find full information in the official parking and transport guide.

The flying programme is subject to weather, aircraft serviceability and operational requirements. Precise display times are published in the official Airbourne programme, and visitors should check the event’s official channels for any changes.

Airbourne continues on Sunday, when a final day of flying will be followed by a fireworks display from the Wish Tower beach.

Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! Read with ease, no annoying pop-up ads.

V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.