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You are here > Visitor Info > More Information > Torbay Airshow announces first wave of civilian aircraft
25th May 2018
Categories: Visitor News
Torbay Airshow has today announced the first wave of civilian aircraft that will feature at the 2018 Airshow on June 2nd and 3rd.
Featuring some firm favourites and some never before seen at Torbay, the 2018 Airshow takes place over two days on Paignton Green, with the bay offering the perfect viewing platform for air displays.
For the first time ever, Torbay Airshow will play host to the unique Vampire Pair, two de Havilland Vampire Jets owned and operated by the Norwegian Airforce Historical Squadron. The de Havilland jets are some of the earliest examples of British designed jet aircraft,
Fan-favourites The Blades will be appearing on both Saturday and Sunday, displaying a brand new close formation aerobatic routine. This elite display team has a number of former Red Arrows pilots amongst its ranks, so Airshow fans can expect a dynamic and cutting edge display.
Torbay’s Elected Mayor, Gordon Oliver, said: “It’s an honour to be welcoming the Vampire Pair to Torbay Airshow 2018. This historic aircraft has a tremendous pedigree within the Royal Air Force and numerous other global Air Forces; it will be an honour to witness this pair of iconic craft flying in the skies above Torbay.”
Making a return to Torbay is the ever popular Autogyro, a craft that was first made famous by Sean Connery in 1967’s Bond Classic You Only Live Twice. Peter Davies’ Autogyro may not have the tricks and whistles of an aircraft straight out of Q-Division, but its spectacular movement and sycamore-like flight pattern makes it a real crowd pleaser.
Also joining the Torbay 2018 line-up is the BAC Strikemaster, a British jet-powered training and light-attack aircraft first flown in 1967. The Strikemaster was a development of the Hunting Jet Provost trainer, which itself was a development of the 1950’s Percival Provost.
Mr Oliver added: “The return of fan favourites The Blades, Autogyro and Strikemaster are exciting indeed; though wildly different from one and other, each aircraft provides a hugely entertaining and visually spectacular display that adds to the amazing Airshow atmosphere.”
All air displays are subject to change depending on weather conditions and operational commitments that could take the military displays elsewhere at short notice.
The event is run by Torbay Council with partner organisation Richmond Event Management.
For further information on the event and to keep up to date with the latest news follow @torbayairshow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit the event website www.torbayairshow.com
© Visit Devon Community Interest Company