Spectators were treated to displays from the RAF Tutor Display Team, the Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers, a Royal Navy Black Cats Helicopter Solo Display and much more.
The seafront was packed as onlookers enjoyed “the UK’s biggest free airshow” (Visit Eastbourne), and there was plenty to do at the Western Lawns site where stalls were set up from various organisations.
There will be plenty more to come between now and Sunday, but for now, here are pictures from the first day of Airbourne:
9. In 25 pictures: Airbourne 2026 off to a flyer
Airbourne 2026: Photo taken on Western Lawns just before the gates opened on August 13 at 10:30am. Photo: staff
10. In 25 pictures: Airbourne 2026 off to a flyer
Airbourne 2026: Four aircraft soar over the seafront. Photo: staff
11. In 25 pictures: Airbourne 2026 off to a flyer
Airbourne 2026: Photo taken on Western Lawns just before the gates opened on August 13 at 10:30am. Number 10 Eastbourne Detachment Sussex ACF and Royal Signals Platoon. Photo: staff
12. In 25 pictures: Airbourne 2026 off to a flyer
Airbourne 2026: Photo taken on Western Lawns just before the gates opened on August 13 at 10:30am. Photo: staff