Latest civilian aircraft line-up for Air Festival

April 13, 2010

With the Dutch F-16 recently announced and stronger military presence, this summer’s third annual Air Festival is on course to be another impressive summer event with the latest line-up of civilian aircraft now confirmed.

Back for this Augusts’ must-visit Festival will be The Blades, Sally-B, Yakovlevs and the Breitling Wingwalkers.

All returning for a third consecutive year, the display teams have been impressed with Bournemouth Air Festival location and crowds; said Elly Sallingboe, B-17 Operator; “Bournemouth seafront was heaving! In my thirty-plus years as both an air display organiser and B-17 operator, I have never seen such a massive crowd; we’re looking forward to coming back this summer”.

Flown by former Red Arrows pilots, The Blades are set to bring the ultimate in aerobatic excitement to the town. Flying on all four days the four Extra 300 stunt planes are regarded as one of the most challenging aircraft in existence. Said Blade 1, Myles Garland; “Since last August we have been developing the display manoeuvres and the overall formation precision; we love being back in front of the crowds during the summer season and are ready to wow the Bournemouth crowds in August”.

The Breitling Wingwalkers, the world’s only aerobatic formation wingwalking team will be performing a breathtaking sequence of acrobatic manoeuvres and handstands whilst strapped to the top wings of the team’s beautiful Boeing Stearman biplanes – a not to be missed aviation spectacular!

Finally, locally based display team the Yakovlevs will also be taking to the skies of Bournemouth. Admired for their sparkling performance, manoeuvrability and grace, the 4-ship team’s close formation manoeuvres demonstrate precision flying at its very best.

Said Jon Weaver, Air Festival Director; “To have these teams back again for a third year is proof of the Air Festival’s success. We’re obviously working on getting more aircraft and display teams to make sure this year’s programme is another incredible line up– watch out for more great announcements at the official website.”

More than a million visitors are expected to flock to the town’s clifftop and beaches for the event which includes displays from the world of aviation, including the world famous Red Arrows (Friday, Saturday & Sunday), the incredible Eurofighter Typhoon and Royal Navy Black Cats Helicopter Display Team.

The Royal Navy will be supporting the Festival with a host of assets including HMS Bangor (open to visitors) RFA Largs Bay and the Royal Marines will be undertaking a beach assault on to the shores of the UK’s leading destination – a not to be missed event on Saturday & Sunday! Not forgetting the ‘Night Air evening programme, the Festival is building for 4-days of superb free aviation action!