Every August, Eastbourne‘s skies fill with the roar of jets and the thunder of historic warbirds for Airbourne — the Eastbourne International Airshow. One of Europe’s biggest free seafront airshows, it draws hundreds of thousands of spectators to the promenade over four spectacular days. Here’s our guide to what to expect, when it takes place and how to make the most of it.
Good to know: the flying line-up and exact dates change every year, and all displays depend on the weather and RAF availability. Always check the official airshow website for the current year’s programme before you travel.
What is Airbourne?
Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow is one of Europe’s biggest free seafront airshows, with crowds lining a roughly two-mile flying display line along Eastbourne’s seafront. First held in the 1990s and produced by Eastbourne Borough Council, it’s funded through the Council’s budget, sponsorship, commercial sales and public donations — which is what keeps it free, with no tickets required. Following the end of Bournemouth’s council-run festival, Airbourne is now the UK’s last major four-day seafront airshow, and it has been voted the country’s Best Free Airshow several years running. Beyond the spectacle, it’s a huge boost to the local economy, filling the town’s hotels, restaurants and shops.
When and where it happens
Airbourne runs over four days, from Thursday to Sunday, in the middle of August — in 2026 it’s scheduled for 13–16 August, though it’s always worth confirming the current year’s dates. The showground stretches along the full four miles of Eastbourne seafront and is typically open from around 10am to 6pm, with the flying displays running from about midday through the afternoon. Can’t make it in person? A free live stream is provided online, and Radio Airbourne broadcasts the build-up and commentary on 87.7 FM during the event.
The flying displays
The flying is the heart of Airbourne. The undisputed stars are the world-famous RAF Red Arrows, who have a long association with the show and typically perform from Friday to Sunday, trailing their iconic red, white and blue smoke over the Channel. They’re joined by the awesome noise of the RAF Typhoon, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight — a Dakota, Spitfire and Hurricane — and a rotating cast of historic warbirds such as the P-51 Mustang, alongside fast jets, precision aerobatic teams and helicopters. The exact line-up changes every year, and all flying is subject to weather, serviceability and RAF operational commitments; for daily flying times, it’s worth buying an official programme, which also helps fund the show.
On the ground and in the evening
There’s plenty to enjoy between the aerial displays. The seafront hosts a military exhibition zone, RAF and British Army recruiting teams, flight simulators, beach play zones with giant inflatables for younger visitors, and a wide choice of food stalls and bars. As the flying winds down, the entertainment continues into the evening with the Airbourne Live beach stage, tribute acts performing at the Eastbourne Bandstand from 8pm, and — on the final Sunday — a spectacular firework finale near the Wish Tower to close the show in style.
Where to watch
The whole seafront promenade forms the main viewing area, so you’ll get a great view almost anywhere along the front. For a guaranteed spot close to the action, reserved seating is sold on the Western Lawns and the Bandstand’s Middle Balcony — a paid upgrade that also helps fund the event. And for a truly memorable, dramatic perspective, head up onto Beachy Head, where you can watch the jets display against the backdrop of the town and the sea from high on the cliffs. Wherever you choose, arrive early — the town gets extremely busy during Airbourne.
Its future and how to support it
Airbourne is an expensive event to stage — running costs are estimated at around half a million pounds each year — and its future has often been the subject of concern. Happily, strong support from the public, the Borough Council and local businesses has kept it flying, with the show meeting its cost-neutral target for three years running before the Council confirmed in October 2025 that Airbourne would return in 2026. You can play your part by making a donation, buying a programme on the day, or signing up as a free Airbourne Insider for the latest news. Bucket collections during the event also support local charities.
Airbourne airshow: FAQs
When is the Eastbourne airshow?
Airbourne takes place over four days, Thursday to Sunday, in mid-August each year. In 2026 it’s scheduled for 13–16 August. Always check the official website for the current year’s confirmed dates.
Is Airbourne free?
Yes — Airbourne is one of Europe’s biggest free seafront airshows, with no tickets or admission required. It’s funded through the Council, sponsors and donations, so any support from visitors helps keep it free for everyone.
Do the Red Arrows fly at Airbourne?
The RAF Red Arrows have a long association with Airbourne and typically display from Friday to Sunday. As with all acts, their appearance depends on the year’s programme and is subject to weather and RAF commitments.
Where’s the best place to watch the airshow?
Anywhere along the seafront promenade offers a great view. Reserved seating is available on the Western Lawns and Bandstand balcony, while Beachy Head gives a spectacular distant view of the displays over the sea.
How can I support the airshow?
You can donate online, buy an official programme at the show, become a monthly supporter or sign up as a free Airbourne Insider. Every contribution helps secure the future of this much-loved free event.
Planning your visit? See what else is happening in our guide to what’s on in Eastbourne, and find the perfect airshow vantage point in our guide to the best walks in Eastbourne.