The English Riviera Airshow returns to Paignton from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a star-studded line-up expected to draw 200,000 visitors. This milestone event will feature the world-famous Red Arrows, the Typhoon display team, and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
A significant highlight for this year’s display is the debut of Wing Cdr Sasha Nash, who is the first woman in history to lead the Red Arrows. Wing Cdr Nash, who joined the Royal Air Force in 2005 and previously flew the Tornado GR4 on operations in Afghanistan, took over leadership of the team earlier this year from Wing Cdr Adam Collins.
The flying schedule includes the Red Arrows on Friday and Saturday, the Typhoon display on Saturday and Sunday, and appearances by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight throughout all three days. Additional civilian aircraft for the show are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The event is a major economic driver for the region, having generated a £5 million boost to the local economy during the 2025 season. Torbay Council, led by Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events and Corporate Services Cllr Jackie Thomas, is co-organising the event to showcase the area. Furthermore, the English Riviera BID Company, which represents over 1,300 local tourism businesses, continues to support the airshow for the positive impact it has on local hotels, restaurants, and shops.
More information regarding the team’s leadership and the event’s history can be found via the Royal Air Force and the official announcement from the local council.
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