The Royal Navy Black Cats, Jet Pitts, Firebirds and Starlings are just some of the display teams recently announced for this year's 10th anniversary Airshow.   

Event organisers have announced the full line-up of civilian and military aircraft for this year’s English Riviera Airshow, adding further excitement to what is shaping up to be a fantastic free event for the whole family. 

Taking place from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 May in Paignton, the 2026 English Riviera Airshow celebrates 10 years since the event first launched in 2016, with three action‑packed days of flying and ground‑based entertainment along Torbay’s iconic coastline. 

The English Riviera Airshow is a collaborative effort supported by Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and organisations, and aviation enthusiasts. 

Flying Display Teams 

A diverse mix of civilian and military aircraft will take to the skies over the three-day weekend, offering something for Airshow fans of all ages: 

• Royal Navy Black Cats: A dynamic helicopter display team flying front‑line AW159 Wildcat helicopters. The Black Cats are renowned for their close‑formation flying, opposition passes and fast, dramatic transitions. 

• Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers: A firm favourite with English Riviera Airshow crowds, the Wingwalkers are internationally renowned for their breathtaking performances, carrying out daring stunts on the top wings of vintage biplanes.

• Jet Pitts: Flown by award‑winning stunt pilot Rich Goodwin, the Jet Pitts combines a powerful piston engine with twin jet turbines. The result is an adrenaline‑fuelled display featuring astonishing vertical climbs, torque rolls and hover‑like manoeuvres. 

• RAF Tutor: Used by the RAF and University Air Squadrons, the Tutor plays a crucial role in introducing student pilots to flying before they progress to more advanced aircraft, delivering an elegant and precise display. 

• The Starlings: A two‑aircraft aerobatic display team specialising in disciplined formation flying, showcasing precision, teamwork and graceful manoeuvres in the air.

• Jet Provost: A classic British military jet trainer, the Jet Provost played a vital role in training generations of Royal Air Force pilots during the Cold War era and remains a much‑loved sight for aviation enthusiasts.

• Westland Wasp: A rare helicopter designed for ship‑borne operations, the Westland Wasp brings naval aviation history to life, demonstrating agile manoeuvres and impressive operational versatility.

• Navy Wings Seafire: The naval version of Britain’s most famous fighter aircraft, the Spitfire, the Seafire offers a powerful reminder of the UK’s extraordinary maritime aviation heritage.

• Firebirds: Renowned for their spectacular twilight displays, the Firebirds combine precision formation aerobatics with wingtip pyrotechnics and LED lighting to create a dramatic visual experience.

RAF Display Teams

Completing the flying programme are three of the RAF’s most iconic display teams: the Red Arrows, Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).

The world‑famous Red Arrows will take to the skies on Friday and Saturday, delivering their breath‑taking display of precision flying and trademark red, white and blue smoke trails over the Torbay coastline.

The RAF Typhoon will be flying on Saturday and Sunday, wowing crowds with its sheer power. Audiences can expect heart‑pounding passes, dramatic climbs and the unmistakable thunderous roar of its twin engines long before it appears overhead.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be flying on all three days – Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The BBMF will feature the C47 Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft, offering a moving tribute to the men and women who served during the Second World War.

Flying Display Times

• Friday; 18:30 – 21:30
• Saturday: 12:00 – 16:00
• Sunday:  13:00 – 16:00

More information about the display teams and times can be found in the official English Riviera Airshow Programme. The programme is available to buy on the English Riviera Airshow website and is also included with all premium parking passes. To find out more visit www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk  

Three days of entertainment

Over the years, the English Riviera Airshow has grown into one of the region’s largest and most exciting free events. Alongside spectacular flying displays, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of ground-based entertainment and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

The Airshow opens with an exhilarating first evening featuring aerial displays, live music and entertainment. Across the rest of the weekend, attractions include an Armed Forces village, a fun fair and carnival stalls, live music performances, a fantastic selection of food and drink stalls and more.

Plan ahead

With tens of thousands of people expected to attend, people are urged to start planning their visit. Visitors can enhance their experience by booking reserved premium seating. For just £35 per day, spectators can enjoy an excellent location with stunning beachside scenes, prime viewing of the flying displays, and close proximity to event facilities and hospitality.

Those planning to drive are encouraged to pre‑book their car parking to make their visit as stress‑free as possible. Parking options include Zone 1 parking, just a 20‑minute walk from the main event, or Premium Parking located in the heart of the action.

Both parking options include all‑day parking (9am–11.30pm), plus a free official English Riviera Airshow pin badge and event programme. Reserved seating and parking are limited, so visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment at www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk.

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events, and Corporate Services, said: “We are incredibly proud of the flying line‑up we have for the English Riviera Airshow’s 10th anniversary. From breath‑taking civilian displays like the Jet Pitts, Firebirds and Wingwalkers, to iconic RAF teams including the Red Arrows, Typhoon and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, it's set to be a fantastic weekend. We hope people from across Torbay and beyond will join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary.''

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company said: ''Wow, what a line up! This year’s programme has something for everyone, and the English Riviera BID Company is very proud to sponsor this key event.''   

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

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