Eastbourne Airshow To Return In 2024 - Without Red Arrows

Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow will return in 2024 to mark its 30th anniversary year, but the Red Arrows display team will not perform.

Eastbourne Borough Council confirmed this morning (Dec 8) that they have overseas commitments from the end of July.

A spokesperson for the council said:

"While the absence of the Red Arrows at the 2024 airshow is a loss, it opens exciting opportunities to introduce fresh, never seen before aerial displays to Eastbourne. 

"In 2019, when the Red Arrows were away for their international tour, the debut of the Breitling Jets Team in Eastbourne created an unforgettable experience for airshow enthusiasts. 

"Our Events Team is once again engaging with multiple teams to bring thrilling new displays to Eastbourne.

"More updates will be provided in the New Year as we prepare to unveil our exciting line up."

The annual airshow will be held from August 15 to 18  after the event enjoyed another successful year, whilst also running on a cost neutral basis.

With plans for the return of fast jets, aerobatic teams, historic aircraft, parachute displays and more, Airbourne fans are being encouraged to support the 30^th year by donating now at SaveAirbourne.com to support flying display costs and ensure the show continues in the future.

Councillor Margaret Bannister, Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure, Accessibility & Community Safety said:

“Airbourne has grown into a world class event over the last 30 years.  It is undoubtedly the biggest free event of its kind in the region, generating high levels of business across the town – whether its from visitor spending, suppliers or from those who choose to relocate to the town as a result of our exciting events programme.

“Thanks to all those who donated or supported the show financially we are able to continue into our 30^th year, however we still need your help to keep the event secure.  Please do donate or get in touch about sponsorship opportunities as we’d love to make our 30^th year the best ever!”

After launching in 1993 and becoming one of the UK’s largest free seafront airshows, Airbourne has maintained its status as an industry leader - voted Tourism Event of the Year and Best Free Airshow multiple times.  The show took a two year break during the pandemic, meaning 2024 will be its 30^th year.

As well as supporting the local economy, Airbourne has generated over £100,000 in charitable donations to local good causes and supported the promotion of STEM careers, with many top pilots, engineers and other military personnel beginning their career journey by chatting to the teams at the show.

Over the last two years the event has particularly supported developments in renewable energy, showcasing the world’s first electric plane and a pioneering new eco training hub created by OHM Energy and East Sussex College.  

The show has continued its work on sustainability, increasing water refill points, promoting travel by public transport, using electric vehicles, hydrotreated vegetable oil in generators and tree planting schemes.  The event is also supported by Environment First who ensure no waste goes to landfill – it is either recycled or treated at a nearby energy recovery facility.

Airbourne 2023 was supported by the Birchwood Group, Brufords, Caffyns, Cloud ConnX, Eastbourne Hospitality Association, Elite Medical, Environment First, Euro Self Drive, Frontier Fireworks, Gemini Print, GM Monk Renewables, More Radio, Neighbourhood First, OHM Energy, Signtek, Stagecoach, The View Hotel, Cumberland Hotel, Lansdowne Hotel and the West Rocks Hotel.

Bucket collections at the show are managed by the Rotary Clubs of Sovereign Harbour and Hailsham, with 30% of all donations split this year between three local charities – the Salvation Army, KSS Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex and Eastbourne Dementia Action Alliance.