Airbourne: Red Arrows won't perform at Eastbourne airshow

The display team had been set to perform at ‘the UK’s biggest free airshow’ on August 14, 15 and 16.

However, adverse weather conditions in North America – where the team have just finished a tour – mean the Red Arrows have ‘been delayed’ and ‘will not be available for any airshows next week’, according to Airbourne organisers.

They also won’t appear at Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week or the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, as had previously been planned.

Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding RAF Aerobatic Team, said: “We are very sorry the Red Arrows cannot participate at these events and we are grateful to organisers and communities for their understanding.

“Every effort is being made to ensure the Red Arrows can recommence the busy display season as soon as possible.

“However, safety is the only factor that will determine the timing of the team’s return from Canada.”

Eastbourne Borough Council’s cabinet member for tourism & place, Cllr Jenny Williams, added: “We were all looking forward to welcoming the Red Arrows back to the blue and sunny skies above Eastbourne, but we understand that the safety of the team must always come first.

"I wish them all a safe journey home.

“In response to this news our wonderful Airbourne events team has been working around the clock, and so I’m delighted to be able to announce some additional displays.

“Joining the line-up from Friday to Sunday is the iconic Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress ‘Sally B’, the last remaining airworthy example in Europe, which has featured in films and on TV.

“And making its Airbourne debut is the international Conair Turbo Firecat, based in France, which will deliver a spectacular and unique water display on Saturday and Sunday.

“These exciting additions complements an already exceptional flying programme, which includes crowd favourites such as the RAF Typhoon Display Team, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the Red Devils Army Parachute Display Team, the Black Cats, AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers and the Jet Pitts, alongside a host of military and civilian aircraft performing across the four days.

“Finally, my thanks to all those who make Airbourne happen and the thousands of people who love our amazing airshow – your support means everything.”