Thousands gathered in Paignton for the English Riviera Airshow 2026, marking its 10th anniversary with RAF Red Arrows, Typhoon display, BBMF warbirds, Black Cats and civilian aerobatic performances over Torbay.
Thousands line Torbay seafront for milestone airshow
The English Riviera Airshow 2026 celebrated its 10th anniversary with one of its most successful editions to date, attracting thousands of spectators to the Paignton seafront in Devon.
Set against the natural amphitheatre of Torbay, the free event once again delivered a full weekend of military and civilian aviation displays, drawing aviation enthusiasts, photographers, and families to the South West coast.
Clear weather conditions allowed for uninterrupted flying displays, with aircraft performing over sea and shore in one of the UK’s most scenic airshow locations.
RAF Red Arrows bring iconic colour to Torbay skies
The world-renowned RAF Red Arrows headlined the event with their precision aerobatic display.
Flying seven Hawk jets in tight formation, the team delivered their trademark synchronised manoeuvres and red, white, and blue smoke trails, captivating crowds along the coastline.
Typhoon Display Team delivers power and speed
The RAF Typhoon Display Team showcased the capability of the Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 with high-energy manoeuvres, steep climbs, and rapid low-level passes across the bay.
The display highlighted both the aircraft’s agility and raw engine power, with sonic intensity echoing across the seafront.
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight brings historic aviation
A major highlight of the weekend was the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), featuring the iconic Spitfire, and Hurricane.
The formation flypast offered a powerful tribute to RAF history and aviation heritage, contrasting modern jets with wartime aircraft still flying today.
Royal Navy aviation past and present on display
One of the highlights of the weekend was the appearance of the Navy Wings Westland Wasp, a rare and beautifully restored helicopter that once served with the Royal Navy. Representing an important chapter in Fleet Air Arm history, the Wasp offered spectators a glimpse into the era of shipborne anti-submarine operations and demonstrated the enduring appeal of historic rotary-wing aircraft.
Modern Royal Navy aviation was also represented by a Wildcat helicopter from the Royal Navy Black Cats display team, showcasing the capabilities of today’s Fleet Air Arm.
Together, the displays provided an interesting contrast between past and present, celebrating generations of Royal Navy aviation during the English Riviera Airshow’s 10th anniversary.
Wingwalkers and civilian aerobatics thrill crowds
The Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers delivered one of the most daring performances of the weekend, with wing walkers performing stunts on vintage biplanes in flight.
The Jet Pitts display added further excitement, combining classic aerobatics with modern power and vertical performance.
A landmark year for the English Riviera Airshow
The 10th anniversary edition reaffirmed the English Riviera Airshow’s status as one of the UK’s most popular free aviation events.
With an estimated attendance of tens of thousands across the weekend, the event continues to be a major highlight in the South West calendar, combining world-class aviation with the unique coastal backdrop of Torbay.
Final thoughts
From modern frontline jets to historic warbirds, the 2026 English Riviera Airshow delivered a balanced and visually spectacular programme, reinforcing why Torbay remains one of the most distinctive airshow locations in the UK.
The English Riviera Airshow 2026 took place over three days in Paignton, attracting large crowds to the Torbay coastline for a programme of aerial displays, military aviation, and evening fireworks.
The event opened on Friday with a display from the RAF Red Arrows, followed by a fireworks finale over the bay later in the evening. Spectators lined the seafront throughout the day as the opening programme combined aviation and night-time entertainment.
Location: Paignton, Torbay, Devon, United Kingdom
Event: English Riviera Airshow 2026
Photography: Marco Atraca Photography