Wales Airshow is set to thrill crowds with spectacular air displays and family-friendly attractions on the ground.
Thousands of visitors are expected to descend on Swansea Bay for the Wales Airshow later this month, as the popular free event returns with an exciting programme of aerial displays and ground-based entertainment for all ages.
Taking place over the weekend of Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July, Wales Airshow, presented by Swansea Council, will once again transform the city’s sweeping bay into a natural amphitheatre for a full lineup of impressive aviation displays.
Spectators can look forward to a packed flying programme featuring the RAF Typhoon, a 4th generation fighter with powerful multi-role capabilities including operations in high-intensity conflict, whose display at the airshow is being supported by Bassetts Motor Group.
Similarly taking to the skies above Swansea Bay are the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, this year featuring the C47 Dakota, one of the most successful military transport aircraft designs in history, flying alongside the Spitfire and Hurricane.
Other brilliant airborne attractions include
- RAF Tutor Display Team – Flying a less powerful aircraft than many display teams, making for a challenging routine that relies on maintaining speed and height between manoeuvres through smooth, precise handling.
- Strikemaster Pair – Two ex-military BAC 167 Strikemaster jets performing together in formation.
- Rolls-Royce Spitfire PS853 – A photo-reconnaissance aircraft that flew unarmed, relying on its powerful Rolls-Royce Griffon engine and manoeuvrability to evade enemy fire.
- Firebirds Display Team – Flying two highly modified Vans RV-4 aircraft in close formation, showcasing synchronised rolls, loops and wingtip-to-wingtip manoeuvres.
- Jet Pitts – A heavily modified Pitts S-2S Special aerobatic biplane created and flown by British pilot Rich Goodwin.
- Gazelle Squadron – Formation flying displays featuring the five-seat Gazelle helicopter, originally developed for light transport and attack duties.
- Navy Wings – A unique pairing of the WWII-era Fairey Swordfish biplane and the Westland Wasp anti-submarine helicopter.
- AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers – The world’s only formation wing-walking team, thrilling audiences since 1984.
- OTTO the Schweizer 300C – A helicopter with a fully articulated three-bladed rotor system, delivering spectacular rotary-wing displays.
Alongside the action in the skies, Swansea Promenade will be packed with attractions from 10am each day, offering visitors a full day of entertainment on the ground. Families can enjoy interactive displays, live music, demonstrations, themed entertainers, funfair rides, virtual reality experiences, and a wide selection of food and drink vendors.
The celebrations will also continue into the evening with Wales Airshow Afterburn, taking place on the Saturday.
Councillor Andrew Williams, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Development, said: “The Wales Airshow is one of the highlights of Swansea’s summer events calendar and we’re delighted to welcome visitors back to Swansea Bay for another unforgettable weekend.
“From the thrilling aerial displays overhead to the fantastic attractions on the ground, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a family looking for a great day out or visiting Swansea for the first time, the Wales Airshow promises a spectacular experience.”
Each year, the Wales Airshow attracts more than 200,000 visitors, providing a major boost for local businesses while showcasing Swansea Bay as one of the UK’s premier event destinations.
Visitors to this year’s event are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance. Head online to the official website, walesnationalairshow.com, where you will find essential information, the ability to pre-book parking, and an option to upgrade your experience with the premium Flight Deck. Provided in partnership with Cardiff Airport, the Flight Deck offers a dedicated viewing area and comfortable seating.
For the latest updates and display announcements keep an eye on official Wales Airshow channels, visit walesnationalairshow.com for details