The countdown is on for one of the UK’s most exciting seaside spectacles, as Clacton Airshow prepares to take flight once again with two days of sky-high thrills and ground-level fun.
Returning to the Essex Sunshine Coast on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, the high-flying event – organised by Tendring District Council (TDC) – promises a packed programme of aerial excellence and family entertainment, all under the banner of this year’s theme: ‘Legends of the Sky’.
From iconic warbirds and cutting-edge aerobatics to interactive exhibits and community attractions, Clacton Airshow is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for aviation fans and visitors of all ages.
Among the highlights of the flying display are the RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – featuring the Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster – and the return of the twilight display on Thursday evening, proudly sponsored by Red Nova IT Solutions, which will light up the skies with Otto the Helicopter, The Firebirds, and the P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’.
Also taking to the air will be the Rolls-Royce Heritage Flight’s Spitfire PRXIX, the Fairey Swordfish Mk1, P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’, Republic P-47D Thunderbolt, F-86 Sabre, BAC Strikemaster Pair, de Havilland Vampire, Westland Lynx AH7, OV-10B Bronco, RAF Grob Tutor T1, and Team RaVen.
Making her Clacton Airshow debut is Red Bull air racer Mélanie Astles, Europe’s top female aerobatic pilot, who will perform a dynamic display in her Extra 330SC – proudly sponsored by Matthew Homes Ltd.
On the ground, the ever-popular replica Chinook helicopter will return to the West Greensward Airshow site, offering visitors the chance to step aboard and experience the scale of this iconic military aircraft. The Chinook, brought by the RAF ground crew, was one of the most talked-about attractions in 2024 and is expected to be a major draw once again.
The RAF will also be represented with RAF Careers and Tutor exhibits while the Army and Royal Navy outreach teams will be on hand to showcase the latest tech and provide insight into life in the forces.
Other ground attractions include Combat2Coffee’s portable roastery, raising funds for veterans’ outreach services, and a wide range of trade stalls. New additions this year include J&Bs Barkery with artisan dog treats, Rough Stuff Oak featuring handmade goods crafted at HMP The Mount, and Bright Eyes of Cambridge, offering stunning macro iris photography.
BBC Essex will once again present Radio Airshow, broadcasting live commentary and updates across the event site and on 103.5FM and BBC Sounds.
For the first time in its 32-year history, Clacton Airshow will be broadcast live and free to viewers across the UK and beyond, thanks to a new partnership with AeroView TV. The high-quality livestream will bring the sights and sounds of the event to screens everywhere. To watch, visit https://watch.aeroview.tv/2025/clacton-airshow.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said this year’s event is set to be one of the most memorable yet.
“Clacton Airshow is a jewel in the crown of the Essex Sunshine Coast – one of the biggest and most anticipated events in the East of England, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to our seafront each summer,” he said.
“It’s a spectacular celebration of aviation, heritage and community, with world-class pilots, iconic aircraft and a buzzing atmosphere both in the air and on the ground.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back the legendary Red Arrows after a short break, and to hear the stirring, unmistakable sound of the Lancaster bomber once again overhead.
“The return of the replica Chinook helicopter will be a real crowd-pleaser, giving flight fans of all ages the chance to get up close to one of the RAF’s most iconic aircraft.
“Whether you’re joining us in person or tuning in via the new live stream, Clacton Airshow 2025 promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.”
The official Clacton Airshow programme, which includes flight times, aircraft facts and everything visitors need to enjoy the event, will be available to buy at the West Greensward Airshow site for £6.
Displays will commence around 13.45pm and 8pm (twilight) on Thursday and 1pm on Friday. However, display times are subject to change due to operational requirements or weather conditions.
Please be aware that some of the displays are particularly noisy and may cause distress to those that are sensitive to noise and that unauthorised drones are not permitted at the event.
Those travelling to the event can make use of the KonectBuses Park and Ride service from Clacton Shopping Village, in Stephenson Road, as well as the event car park at West Road run by Clacton-on-Sea Rotary Club, and additional rail services provided by Greater Anglia.
Giving to Clacton Airshow by way of online donations or by bucket collections will help in enabling us to secure this event’s future and continue to offer this fantastic free show. With your kind support and contributions and, with enough funding secured, it will enable us to keep this spectacular free event in our skies.
For more information and to donate online, people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, and to stay up-to-date with the latest news follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.