The English Riviera Airshow, formerly known as the Torbay airshow, is an annual air show held at the beach of Paignton, in Devon, England. Launched in 2016, it showcases aerial displays over Torbay, featuring performances by the RAF Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Royal Navy Black Cats, and the British Army's Red Devils Parachute Display Team.
The event is free to attend and typically occurs in early June, attracting tens of thousands of spectators. Organized by Torbay Council with support from the English Riviera BID Company and local sponsors, the airshow also includes ground-based entertainment such as live music, a funfair, STEM exhibits, and food stalls. History The festival started in 2016, being held from 10 June to 12 June 2025. +YearDatesEstimated Attendance (all days)Notes201610–12 JuneHighlights included the RAF Typhoon, Sea Vixen, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and Red Arrows. The Tigers parachute team and several aerobatic acts also performed.20173–4 June150,00020182–3 JuneMore than 165,00020191–2 June165,00020222–5 JuneFirst display back after an absence due to COVID. Larger event year due to the Platinum Jubilee. Displays were cut short on sunday due to poor visibility.20233–4 June198,00020241–2 JuneA fatal Spitfire crash in Lincolnshire the previous week led to the cancellation of the planned RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.202530 May–1 JuneStrong winds meant there was no performance by the Red Devils Army Parachute Display Team due to safety concerns.202629–31 MayNearly 200,000Tenth-anniversary event; Wing Commander Sasha Nash became the first woman to lead the Red Arrows at the event.
References