Blog

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.

As the roar of engines and shimmer of thrilling aerobatics prepare to return to the Essex Sunshine Coast, one man is poised to help bring the skies above Clacton to life.

Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), Clacton Airshow 2025 show embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’ and promises two days of breathtaking aerial displays and family-friendly fun on the ground.

At the heart of the programme is Flying Display Director Dave Walton, whose job is to turn a complex mix of aircraft, airspace, and logistics into a show-stopping aerial display.

Dave’s aviation journey began early, as the son of an RAF pilot and airshow volunteer. From attending the International Air Tattoo at Greenham Common in his youth to managing aircraft participation at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), he’s spent decades immersed in the world of flight.

His experience spans everything from Cold War jets to VVIP royal flights — and now, to the skies above Clacton.

“Clacton Airshow is a firm favourite on the airshow calendar,” said Dave, who has directed the show for 7 years, although the team behind TSA Consulting have been there since the start.

“It’s a great location for running a flying display — we’re sat there looking out to sea, with all the land behind us and no terrain issues. And we usually get fantastic weather here on the Essex Sunshine Coast.”

Since Dave first became involved, the show has grown significantly — “probably double what it was,” he notes — and has evolved alongside the wider airshow industry, adapting to new regulations and safety standards.

“There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes,” he explains. “We start booking airspace and planning the show a year in advance.“

“One of the biggest challenges is that we don’t have a nearby airfield suitable for all the aircraft, so we end up operating from four or five bases across the East of England.

“There are a lot of moving parts — and weather, timings, and logistics all have to come together perfectly.”

This year’s flying programme is one of the most diverse yet, showcasing aircraft from across the decades.

“We’re trying to look at the whole range of aircraft available to us on the display circuit,” Dave says.

“We’ve got lower-powered aircraft, training planes, vintage warbirds from the Second World War — including Mustangs to pay tribute to Little Zippie — and right up to the modern day with military jets and, of course, the Red Arrows.”

The story of ‘Little Zippie’ is a poignant one. On 13 January 1945, a P-51D Mustang ditched off the coast of Clacton, claiming the life of Flying Officer Raymond E. King.

The aircraft was later recovered and now forms a centrepiece of the East Essex Aviation Museum in Point Clear, St Osyth. This year, two P-51D Mustangs — sponsored by Ørsted and Red Nova Solutions respectively — will fly in tribute.

“I’m really pleased we can tell that story,” added Dave. “It’s a meaningful part of the show.”

And of course, the impressive RAF Red Arrows return as crowd favourites — appearing on both days of the event.

“Everyone will be excited to see the Red Arrows — that is always a fan favourite,” Dave adds. “And we’ve got fantastic support from the Royal Air Force this year.”

Despite the intensity of the planning and coordination, there are moments of calm — and joy.

“Thursday evening, with the twilight show, is when we get to calm down a bit,” Dave says with a smile.

“We can sit back and enjoy the illuminated aerobatics, smoke and pyrotechnic displays, watching fireworks coming off the aircraft and lighting up the evening sky — that’s a real relaxing highlight.”

And if he had to pick a favourite aircraft?

“I always enjoy watching the Red Arrows, but I love the warbirds — especially a Spitfire. In any setting, it’s a fantastic thing to watch and listen to.”

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, thanked Dave and his colleagues at TSA Consulting for helping to put on the spellbinding airshow, which is one of the biggest annual events in the East of England, attracting up to 250,000 people over two days.

“Dave’s experience and passion are key to making the Clacton Airshow such a standout event,” he said.

“His leadership, alongside the incredible Tendring District Council airshow team and our dedicated volunteers, ensures we deliver a world-class spectacle that honours our heritage and thrills audiences of all ages.”

The 2025 Clacton Airshow will feature a whole host of historic and aerobatic aircraft while on the ground, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.

The Army and Royal Navy outreach teams will also be on hand, offering insight into life in the forces and showcasing their latest tech and opportunities, while Combat2Coffee‘s portable roastery will be serving up hot drinks to fund its veterans’ outreach services.

Visitors can also browse a wide range of trade stalls, including new additions like 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.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.

This summer’s Clacton Airshow will once again fill the skies with daring displays and breath-taking stunts, as some of the world’s most skilled pilots take flight in a celebration of aerial excellence.

Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 2025 event embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’, promising two days of thrilling action in the air and family-friendly fun on the ground.

Among the standout performers is Team RaVen, the UK’s largest civilian aerobatic team, returning with a powerful seven-aircraft formation.

Their display, sponsored by BBC Essex, is a masterclass in precision and teamwork, with smoke trails and tight manoeuvres that leave audiences spellbound.

Rich Goodwin brings back his ever-popular Pitts Special — but this year, it’s supercharged. His radical new Jet Pitts combines traditional biplane agility with the roar of twin jet turbines, delivering an aerobatic display that’s as loud and thrilling as it is unique.

Rich said the idea to combine a traditional piston engine with two jet turbines mounted on either side of the fuselage began as a light-hearted comment while Rich was working with aircraft engineer Eddie Sauernman on a new wing design.

“I joked with Eddie that we could just bolt two jet turbines to the Pitts and fly it after a weekend’s work,” he said.
“Several years later, here we are almost ready to go after overcoming a host of regulatory and engineering challenges.”

The airshow also features the Bronco Demo Team, flying the distinctive OV-10B Bronco — a Cold War-era aircraft with a rugged silhouette and a rich military heritage. Pilot Tony de Bruyn brings the aircraft to life with a display that blends nostalgia with raw power.

From the Royal Air Force, the Grob Tutor T1 will take to the skies in a graceful solo routine. Display pilot Flight Lieutenant Bob Dewes, a veteran of both transport and search-and-rescue missions, brings elegance and poise to this light training aircraft’s performance.

Also joining the aerobatic display line-up is Mélanie Astles, Europe’s leading female aerobatic pilot and a former Red Bull competitor. Flying her Extra 330, Mélanie’s display is a dazzling mix of finesse and flair, sponsored by Matthew Homes Limited.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “This year’s Clacton Airshow is shaping up to be our most exciting yet—packed with jaw-dropping stunts, legendary aircraft, and non-stop entertainment for all ages.

“It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it’s right here on our doorstep. If you’ve never been before, this is the year to come — and if you have, you already know why it’s the event everyone will be talking about.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the Essex Sunshine Coast for two unforgettable days.”

The 2025 show will also feature iconic appearances from the RAF Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, as well as the return of the popular twilight display on Thursday evening.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow, visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.

Aviation legends will thunder into action at this summer’s Clacton Airshow, as three iconic Second World War aircraft take to the skies in a spectacular celebration of power and heritage.

Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 2025 show embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’, promising two days of breathtaking aerial displays and family-friendly fun on the ground.

Among the highlights is the North American P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’, a beautifully restored aircraft operated by Ultimate Warbirds and proudly sponsored by Ørsted, which runs Gunfleet Sands Offshore Wind Farm.

Originally built in Australia and now based in Northamptonshire, the aircraft honours Donald J. Strait, a top ace of the US 8th Air Force who flew from Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, achieving 13.5 aerial victories – including three in a single mission in 1945.

Adding even more firepower is the Republic P-47D Thunderbolt ‘Nellie-B’—the largest and heaviest single-seat piston-engine fighter ever built—also sponsored by Ørsted. Known for its ruggedness and versatility, the Thunderbolt played a key role in ground-attack missions during the D-Day landings and beyond.

Also appearing is the legendary P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine, part of the twilight display on the Thursday evening, which sponsored by Red Nova.

Operated by Ultimate Warbird Flights, Moonbeam McSwine is painted in tribute to Captain William T. Whisner, a triple ace who earned 15.5 victories in the Second World War and later served in Korea and Vietnam.

The twilight show will also feature the high-energy Firebirds Aerobatic Team and crowd-favourite Otto the Helicopter and will be followed by fireworks from Clacton Pier.

This year’s Mustang displays carry a poignant local connection due to the 80th anniversary of the loss of a P-51D off the coast of Clacton during the Second World War.

On 13 January 1945, a P-51D Mustang known as ‘Little Zippie’ ditched into the North Sea off Clacton, tragically claiming the life of Flying Officer Raymond E. King.

Decades later, the aircraft was recovered and now forms a centrepiece of the East Essex Aviation Museum in Point Clear, St Osyth.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The mighty Mustangs are a real showpiece of power and heritage — vital to Allied victory in the Second World War.

“The flights are a powerful tribute to ‘Little Zippie’ and the brave pilots who flew these legendary machines.

“Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just looking for a great day out by the sea, the Clacton Airshow is the highlight of the summer on the Essex Sunshine Coast.”

Helen Kinsella, of Ørsted, added: “We’re proud to sponsor the incredible displays by ‘Jersey Jerk’ and ‘Nellie-B’ – two historic aircraft that not only showcase aviation excellence but also help celebrate Clacton’s rich coastal heritage.

“The airshow brings people together and draws visitors from near and far and we’re thrilled to be part of it.”

The 2025 Clacton Airshow will feature a whole host of historic and aerobatic aircraft, including the RAF Red Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. On the ground, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.

A video hasproduced telling the story of ‘Little Zippie’, which can be seen here. To find out more about the EastEssex Aviation Society, go to www.facebook.com/EastEssexAviationSociety.

Red Bull air racer Mélanie Astles – Europe’s top female aerobatic pilot – will be making her dazzling Clacton Airshow debut next month.

A six-time French aerobatic champion and the first woman ever to compete in the prestigious Red Bull Air Race, Mélanie will bring her breathtaking aerial artistry to the Essex Sunshine Coast on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August.

Mélanie will take to the skies in her Extra 330SC, a high-performance, single-seat aerobatic aircraft powered by the formidable Lycoming AEIO-580 engine – perfect for her dynamic, gravity-defying display, which is proudly sponsored by Matthew Homes Ltd.

Born in Rugby and raised in the south of France, Mélanie’s aviation career has soared from national titles to international acclaim. After leaving school at 18, she worked in petrol stations to fund her flying lessons, earning her private pilot’s licence at 21.

She entered aerobatics in 2006, became French Champion in the ‘Espoir’ category a year later, and by 2015 was competing at the elite ‘Unlimited’ level. In 2016, she made history as the first female pilot in the Red Bull Air Race World Series, with four podiums including a win at Indianapolis.

In 2024, she became British National Champion, earning an FAI medal on an international mixed podium.

Mélanie said that participating in Clacton Airshow 2025 aligns seamlessly with her passion for innovation. This year, thanks to a new partnership with AeroView TV, the event will be streamed online for the first time — bringing the excitement and spectacle to national and international audiences and showcasing the extraordinary champion far beyond the seafront.

“Participating in Clacton Airshow represents an extraordinary opportunity to be part of a revolution in aeronautical event presentation,” she said.

“The live streaming innovation aligns perfectly with my vision of making aviation accessible to the greatest number.

“Clacton’s seafront offers a magnificent setting for aerial demonstrations, and I’m enthusiastic about contributing to this pioneering event.”

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader of Tendring District Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said he was thrilled to welcome Mélanie to this year’s Clacton Airshow line-up.

“Mélanie Astles is an exceptional pilot whose skill and passion for aviation have earned her international acclaim,” he said.

“From championship titles to breaking barriers in the Red Bull Air Race, her achievements speak for themselves.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome her to Clacton for what promises to be a truly unforgettable debut.

“The airshow is the highlight of the summer here on the Essex Sunshine Coast – and with Mélanie’s high-energy display in the Extra 330SC, this year’s event is set to be one of the most exciting yet.”

Ben White, of Matthew Homes Ltd, added: “We’re proud to support Mélanie Astles’ debut at the Clacton Airshow – her incredible skill and energy are sure to captivate audiences.

“The airshow is a fantastic celebration of community and aviation, and sponsoring this flight is our way of helping bring something truly special to the Essex Sunshine Coast.”

The 2025 Clacton Airshow, organised by Tendring District Council, is one of the biggest events on the Essex calendar, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Alongside Mélanie’s debut, this year’s programme features the world-famous RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, as well as the return of the popular twilight display on Thursday 21 August.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.

Image credit: Mélanie Astles

Image credit: Caorle MLN

Aviation fans are in for a spectacular treat this summer as the 2025 Clacton Airshow unveils a thrilling line-up of legendary jet aircraft, including the debut appearance of the iconic F-86 Sabre, and the agile Lynx helicopter.

Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), this year’s show celebrates the theme of ‘Legends of the Sky: Power, Precision and Heritage’ – promising two days of breathtaking aerial displays and family-friendly fun on the ground.

The powerful jets at the spectacle will include Mistralwarbirds’ F-86 Sabre, a Cold War-era jet fighter famed for its role in the Korean War, as well as the world-famous RAF Red Arrows, flying their Hawk T1 jets in a dazzling display of speed, skill and synchrony.

The F-86 aircraft performing in Clacton – a Canadair CL-13 Sabre Mk 6, the last of its kind ever built – is powered by a mighty Orenda 14 engine delivering 7,400 lbs of thrust, with the display proudly sponsored by MRL Productions.

Known for its exceptional high-altitude and low-speed performance, the Sabre Mk 6 is widely regarded as the finest Sabre variant produced worldwide.

Its legendary dogfights with the MiG-15 during the Korean conflict remain a defining chapter in the history of air combat.

Joining the Sabre in the skies over Clacton this summer is Project Lynx’s Westland Lynx AH7 helicopter, a fast and nimble military aircraft full of surprises, proudly sponsored by Lifehouse Spa and Hotel.

Also returning to wow the crowds are the Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron with their much-loved de Havilland Vampire, and a pair of thunderous BAC 167 Strikemasters, operated by the North Wales Military Aviation Services and sponsored by the Black Jacket Group.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said the line-up is one of the most exciting the event has ever seen.

“We’ve never had a line-up quite like this before – it’s a dream come true for aviation enthusiasts,” he said.

“The debut of the F-86 Sabre is a real coup for Clacton and will absolutely wow the crowds.

“From classic aircraft that shaped aviation history to the raw power of modern jets, there’s something for everyone.

“Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just looking for a great day out by the sea, the Clacton Airshow is the highlight of the summer on the Essex Sunshine Coast.”

The show will also feature the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, alongside a mix of historic and modern aircraft, while the twilight display on Thursday 21 August will include the legendary P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’, the high-energy Firebirds Aerobatic Team, and crowd-favourite Otto the Helicopter.

On the ground, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including interactive exhibits, delicious food and drink stalls, family-friendly activities, and a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.

Clacton’s skies will sparkle once more this summer as the much-loved twilight flights return to Clacton Airshow – promising an unforgettable evening of aerial magic.

The twilight display will take place on the opening day of the two-day event, which runs on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and is organised by Tendring District Council (TDC).

This year’s twilight airshow theme is ‘Legends After Dark’ and will include the iconic Second World War-era P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’.

Returning by popular demand to the twilight flights – which are sponsored by Red Nova IT Solutions – will be the thrilling Firebirds Aerobatic Team and the ever-entertaining Otto the Helicopter.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The twilight display is a real showstopper – a spectacular fusion of light, sound and aviation skill that brings a whole new energy to the seafront.

“It’s the perfect way to extend the excitement into the evening and gives even more people the chance to experience the magic of the airshow.

“Whether you’re a lifelong aviation enthusiast or just looking for a unique summer evening out, the twilight flights are not to be missed.

“Why not make a night of it with dinner at one of Clacton’s fantastic restaurants or even stay over to enjoy both days of the show?”

The 2025 twilight programme will see the P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’ make its Clacton twilight debut.

Operated by FlyaSpitfire.com, this beautifully restored aircraft is painted in tribute to Captain William T. Whisner’s original Second World War fighter, which flew with the 487th Fighter Squadron in England.

The Mustang, renowned for its speed, range and firepower, played a pivotal role in securing Allied air superiority during the Second World War.

Also lighting up the evening skies will be the Firebirds, whose illuminated aerobatics and pyrotechnics never fail to wow the crowd, and the crowd-favourite Otto the Helicopter, whose quirky routine, complete with fireworks and smoke, is always a hit with families.

Rob Norris, Director of Red Nova IT Solutions, said: “We’re thrilled to once again support the twilight display – it’s a true highlight of the summer and a brilliant showcase for Clacton.

“The airshow brings the community together and draws visitors from far and wide, and we’re proud to be part of something that puts our town on the map.”

The Clacton Airshow is one of the biggest events on the Essex Sunshine Coast calendar, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. Alongside the twilight flights, this year’s programme includes appearances from the RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and a host of other historic and modern aircraft.

On the ground, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions including interactive exhibits, delicious food stalls, and family-friendly activities – including a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.

For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.