Red Arrows, Typhoon and historic RAF displays set for English Riviera Airshow’s 10th anniversary

The iconic English Riviera Airshow will mark its 10th anniversary in style this year, with organisers confirming a standout Royal Air Force line-up for the three-day spectacle in Paignton.

Returning from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 May, the free event will feature headline displays from the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, promising “incredible aerial displays across all three days of the event.

The Red Arrows will take to the skies on both Friday and Saturday, giving spectators two chances to see their trademark red, white and blue smoke trails light up the Torbay coastline. This year’s show will also mark a historic moment for the team, with Sasha Nash leading the display as the first woman to command the RAF aerobatic team.

Flying their Hawk fast-jets, the Red Arrows are renowned for their Diamond Nine formation and precision flying, making them a perennial highlight of the event.

Meanwhile, the Typhoon display team will perform on Saturday and Sunday, showcasing the raw power and agility of the Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4. Known for its thunderous engine roar and high-speed manoeuvres, the aircraft is expected to deliver dramatic climbs and crowd-thrilling flypasts.

Across all three days, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will bring a sense of history to the skies, with appearances from the C47 Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft. The flight honours those who served and preserves some of the RAF’s most important historic aircraft.

Organisers say the 2026 event will be one of the biggest yet, celebrating a decade since the airshow’s launch in 2016. Around 200,000 visitors are expected to attend, with a full programme of flying displays complemented by ground-based entertainment, an opening night celebration and a festival atmosphere across the bay.

The airshow is delivered through a collaboration between Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and aviation enthusiasts.

Councillor Jackie Thomas said: “We are delighted to unveil such an exceptional RAF line up for this year’s English Riviera Airshow. Having the Red Arrows, the Typhoon and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight perform across the weekend will make our 10th anniversary year truly unforgettable.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience the power, precision and heritage of the RAF’s most iconic display teams, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone for what promises to be a spectacular celebration.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, added: “The English Riviera BID Company is delighted to continue sponsoring this major annual event that attracts thousands of visitors from all round the country who come and stay and enjoy a weekend exploring the English Riviera.”

With more civilian aircraft still to be announced, residents and visitors are being encouraged to plan ahead and make a weekend of it, with accommodation, parking and reserved seating already available to book.