Organisers have confirmed that the skies above Torbay will once again come alive as the English Riviera Airshow returns from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May 2026.
Following the incredible success of the 2025 event, which for the first time spanned three days and attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors. To mark the start of the weekend, a Friday night ‘Take Off’ event launched the festivities, captivating crowds with live entertainment and dynamic performances. The evening culminated in a breathtaking Spitfire flypast and pyrotechnic aerial display at dusk. Following its resounding success, the opening night spectacular will return in 2026.
The Airshow delivered a £5 million boost to the local economy, supporting businesses, hospitality, and tourism across the Bay.
Building on the momentum of recent years, the 2026 English Riviera Airshow promises to be just as spectacular as organisers prepare to celebrate a major milestone - ten years since the inaugural event in 2016.
Since its launch, the Airshow has become a much-loved fixture in the Bay’s calendar, igniting community spirit and drawing support from sponsors, generous local businesses, and aviation enthusiasts. Together, they’ve rallied behind us and our event partner the English Riviera BID Company to help deliver and grow the Bay’s biggest event year after year.
While organisers await confirmation of the RAF display allocation in spring 2026, they are hopeful to welcome back the RAF’s most iconic flying display teams - the ones Airshow fans know and love. From heart-pounding aerobatics to awe-inspiring formations, the English Riviera Airshow continues to be one of the UK’s premier coastal aviation events.
Cllr Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services at Torbay Council, said; “Reaching the 10-year milestone is a remarkable achievement for the English Riviera Airshow. At a time when many similar events across the country have struggled to continue, we’ve not only kept the show flying but have grown it year on year. That’s thanks to the unwavering support of the English Riviera BID Company, our sponsors, and the generous local businesses who continue to rally behind us. It’s never without its challenges, but the enthusiasm and backing from our community make it all worthwhile. If you can support the event, please do get in touch with the team.”
Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company said; “The 2025 summer season on the English Riviera has been nothing short of phenomenal—fantastic news following a challenging few years for the tourism, events and hospitality industry. We’re already seeing visitors booking their accommodation for the 2026 Airshow weekend.
“The English Riviera Airshow alone generates around £5 million for the local economy, which is why the English Riviera BID Company is proud to fully support this flagship event.
Hosting the Airshow in our stunning natural amphitheatre, surrounded by multiple viewing points, means everyone has the chance to enjoy the breathtaking aerial displays. We’ve got accommodation to suit all budgets, fabulous food and drink, attractions, plus land and sea adventures to enjoy. We look forward to welcoming you to the English Riviera soon.”
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