Iconic RAF flying displays confirmed for airshow - including the return of the Red Arrows!
South Ayrshire Council is delighted to announce the attendance of the Royal Air Force (RAF) at this year's International Ayr - Show Festival of Flight as they bring a variety of exciting flying displays!
The wildly popular Red Arrows will head up the show, taking to the skies on both days of the Festival to perform their impressive aerobatic displays. You can see them perform on the evening of Friday 4 September and afternoon on Saturday 5 September 2026 at Ayr shore front.
The Red Arrows will be in good company, with exciting displays from the Typhoon; Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF); the RAF Falcons Parachute display team; and the RAF Grob Tutor also confirmed for the weekend.
The Typhoon FGR Mk4 is a favourite in Ayr, having performed at our airshow each year since 2023, much to the delight of the crowds. This highly capable combat aircraft puts on a show that's exciting for both the eyes and ears - roaring through the sky as it performs high-speed agile manoeuvres.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) maintains historical aircraft in airworthy condition with the mission of commemorating those who have lost their lives in service. The BBMF will bring a new line-up of aircraft this year, with the Douglas C47 Dakota displaying for the first time at our airshow following a major restoration, alongside two iconic Spitfires.
Joining us on Friday 4 September will be the RAF Falcons parachute display team. The Falcons' display has been immensely popular in previous years, so we're delighted to welcome them back once again to wow the crowds with their thrilling freefall routine which concludes in the landing zone on the Low Green.
Also returning for 2026 is The Grob 115E, known as the Tutor T Mark 1 - a versatile training aircraft used for Elementary Flying Training, pilot grading, and flying instruction.
Councillor Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "I'm pleased we've been able to book the iconic Red Arrows as a headliner for our 2026 airshow - something that reinforces the growing reputation of the event. We look forward to welcoming large crowds to Ayr this September for what promises to be an outstanding weekend of entertainment."
Councillor Alec Clark, South Ayrshire Council's Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, said: "It's fantastic to be able to announce the line-up of highly regarded RAF display teams set to attend our airshow this year."
Councillor Clark, whose portfolio includes cultural services and tourism continued, "It's important to celebrate the rich heritage of aviation, as well as highlighting new and exciting innovations in the aerospace industry, which is why I'm pleased to see the BBMF return this year amongst crowd favourites like the Typhoon."
Councillor Chris Cullen, South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, said: "Securing such an exciting line-up is great news. Events like the airshow bring visitors to South Ayrshire, create a real sense of pride for our communities, and provide a memorable experience for local families. The return of the Red Arrows will undoubtedly be a highlight for everyone attending."
Les Garside-Beattie OBE, Flying Display Director for the International Ayr Show - Festival of Flight, said: "I am delighted that we have been able to bring together another exciting line up for our show. There is clearly something for everyone. In particular, it is heartwarming that we have attracted such support from so many participants as it provides us with a clear endorsement for the standing of the Festival of Flight in the UK airshow calendar."
Gavin Davey, Area Director (Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England) at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "While RAF aircraft and display crews showcase their skills in the skies above Ayr, the RAF Benevolent Fund will be highlighting the support we provide to RAF personnel, veterans and their families across Scotland and the wider UK. As proud charity partner for a fourth year, we look forward to being part of this fantastic event, raising awareness of the help available to those who may need it, and encouraging support for our vital work."
More exciting aerial displays are still to be announced for the airshow taking place on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September. Visitors will also find a range of exciting activities, delicious food and drink, and trade stalls in our Festival Village on Ayr's Low Green.
Keep an eye on our social media channels and https://destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk/ayrshow/ for updates.
The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is the official charity partner for the International Ayr Show - Festival of Flight. It is the RAF's longest-standing charity for serving and former RAF personnel and their families. Find out more about the valuable services they offer on their website - https://www.rafbf.org/
