A free seafront show — weather and council funding can affect the programme. Check visiteastbourne.com closer to the date.
Dates, venue and tickets
| When | 13 August 2026 – 16 August 2026 |
|---|---|
| Where | Eastbourne seafront, East Sussex |
| Adult ticket | Free |
| Official site | visiteastbourne.com/airshow |
About Airbourne — Eastbourne International Airshow
Eastbourne Borough Council started Airbourne in 1994 and still produces it. It runs for four days in mid-August, with a flying line along about two miles of seafront. Attendance is put at around half a million. The Red Arrows have a long association with the show.
In 2000 former Red Arrows pilot Ted Girdler died when his L-29 Delfín crashed into the sea during a display. In 2008 a £5 charge for a viewing area caused an outcry and was dropped. From 2023 the council said the show must run on a cost-neutral basis. Donations now help fund the flying. It was voted Best Free UK Airshow in 2025.
What to expect
- Four days of flying, Thursday to Sunday.
- Fast jets, historic warbirds and aerobatic teams; the 2026 line-up included the Red Devils, RAF Typhoon and BBMF.
- Free viewing from the beach and promenade; reserved Bandstand balcony seats cost extra.
- Big screens on the beach and at Bankers Corner, ground attractions, evening shows and a firework finale.
Getting there
- The flying line runs along about two miles of Eastbourne seafront.
- Travel, car parking and where-to-watch details are published on visiteastbourne.com before each show.
Recent editions
| 2026 | 13–16 August. |
| 2025 | Voted Best Free UK Airshow. |
Frequently asked
When is the Eastbourne Airshow 2027?
Thursday 12 to Sunday 15 August 2027, along Eastbourne seafront.
Is the Eastbourne airshow free?
Yes, viewing from the seafront is free. Reserved seats at the Bandstand cost extra, and donations help fund the flying.
Who runs Airbourne?
Eastbourne Borough Council, which has produced the show since it began in 1994.