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.