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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.