Today, 18 February, marks exactly 100 days until the English Riviera Airshow 2026 takes to the skies. Torbay’s flagship event returns from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May, with more than 200,000 visitors expected across the weekend.

This year’s Airshow is set to be especially memorable as organisers prepare to celebrate a major milestone: the 10th anniversary of the very first English Riviera Airshow in 2016. Building on the event’s growing momentum, the 2026 event promises breathtaking flying displays, vibrant entertainment on the ground, a fantastic opening-night celebration and a buzzing festival atmosphere across the whole weekend.

Organisers expect to receive confirmation by the end of March on which RAF aircraft and display teams will grace the skies at the 2026 event. In previous years, spectators have been thrilled by breath-taking performances from the iconic RAF Red Arrows, the powerful RAF Typhoon, and the historic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight —showcasing the very best in aviation skill, technology, and heritage.

The English Riviera Airshow is a collaborative effort supported by Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and organisations, and aviation enthusiasts. The event team are hard at work behind the scenes to deliver this free-to-attend event—but they need local people, groups and businesses to get involved and lend their support.  

Organisers have launched an exciting range of sponsorship and advertising opportunities which cater to businesses of all shapes and sizes. For as little as £150, local businesses can secure an advertising spot in the official Airshow Programme. Or, for £250, they can elevate their visibility even further with digital screen advertising during the event—putting their brand in front of thousands of spectators

New for 2026, businesses can claim their place in the spotlight with their very own branded Flying Display. For £5,000 businesses can have their brand aligned with a specific flying display and will benefit from shout‑outs to hundreds of thousands of spectators, as well as brand mentions in the official programme, flying display timings, and social media. It’s a show‑stopping way to get businesses noticed and to achieve sky-high exposure at one of Devon's largest events.

Organisers are also offering joint event sponsorship packages that support not only the English Riviera Airshow, but also the hugely popular Bay of Lights which last year attracted almost 1.6 million visitors.

Joint sponsorship of both standout events provides businesses with extensive exposure—reaching residents and visitors during two of the Bay’s busiest times of year: summer and Christmas. Joint sponsorship packages are available in Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze tiers.

Local businesses can also support the English Riviera Airshow through in‑kind sponsorship—providing relevant products or services that help bring the event to life. This could include essential event infrastructure such as security, fencing or other site amenities.

To view all sponsorship and advertising opportunities, visit the English Riviera Airshow website: Sponsor - English Riviera Airshow

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events, and Corporate Services, said: “We are calling on local businesses and residents to get behind the English Riviera Airshow and help us deliver an unforgettable weekend for the whole Bay. By sponsoring the Airshow, you’re not just promoting your brand—you’re helping create an experience that families, residents and visitors can enjoy together. It’s a true community celebration, and we’d love everyone to be part of it.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company said: “The English Riviera Airshow is a highlight of our visitor events calendar, and our message is simple – make a weekend of it.  Enjoy the spectacular displays, then stay for fantastic accommodation, great food and our stunning coastline.  For businesses, sponsorship in this special 10th anniversary year offers a chance to be part of an event that delivers real impact and we encourage everyone to get involved.”

The English Riviera Airshow has been held annually since 2016. It combines thrilling flying displays with ground-based festivities, captivating audiences of all ages.

Get the latest news and updates by signing up to the English Riviera Airshow newsletter: www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk/

ENDS