Eastbourne Airshow 2026 is taking place from Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August on Eastbourne seafront. Searches are rising as visitors check today’s flying times, transport and the programme. The official event is also known as Airbourne. Here is what to verify before travelling, with practical advice for Saturday 15 August.
What time does Eastbourne Airshow start today?
The official visitor information lists the show site as open from 10:30 am until 5 pm. For Saturday 15 August, flying is scheduled to begin at 11:45 am. Timings can change because aviation displays depend on weather, operational requirements and air-traffic conditions, so the programme should be checked again on the day.
The displays are viewed from Eastbourne seafront. Arriving before the first flying slot gives visitors more time to find a safe viewing position and avoids the busiest transport period.
Is Eastbourne Airshow free?
Airbourne is promoted as a free seafront airshow. Optional paid services, parking or hospitality may still carry charges. Visitors should use the council and Visit Eastbourne pages for official bookings and avoid unofficial sellers claiming to offer mandatory admission tickets.
How should visitors travel to the event?
Large crowds can make central roads and parking areas busy. Public transport, park-and-ride arrangements or walking from the station may be easier than trying to park beside the display area. Check live rail information before departure and allow additional time after the final display, when many visitors leave together.
- Use only designated parking and follow temporary signs.
- Do not stop on access routes needed by emergency services.
- Bring water, sun protection and a light waterproof layer.
- Keep children within sight in crowded areas.
- Follow announcements if flying times or viewing zones change.
What aircraft are flying?
The event publishes an official line-up, but appearances can be altered or cancelled. Treat third-party graphics as provisional unless they match the current Airbourne website. Aircraft may also arrive from different bases, meaning weather elsewhere can affect a display even when Eastbourne is clear.
Where is the best place to watch?
The seafront provides the primary viewing area. A clear view does not require moving beyond barriers or entering restricted zones. Spectators should never use drones near an air display: temporary airspace restrictions and aviation safety rules apply. Binoculars may improve the experience without requiring visitors to move closer.
What happens on Sunday?
The 2026 event continues through Sunday 16 August. Official information also lists evening fireworks on Sunday at 9 pm. Weather or safety decisions can still affect the plan, so confirm the notice before making a special journey.
Official information
Dates, opening hours and visitor answers are available from Visit Eastbourne’s official Airbourne FAQ. Check the organiser’s current programme immediately before travel. Updated 15 August 2026.
Related guide: when is the August bank holiday in the UK in 2026?
Accessibility, sound and family planning
Air displays can be extremely loud, particularly for young children and people sensitive to noise. Consider suitable hearing protection and choose a position that allows an easy exit from the crowd. Visitors with mobility requirements should review the official accessibility information before arrival because temporary traffic arrangements can change the usual route along the seafront.
How to check a last-minute change
Use the date and time shown on the organiser’s latest update. A programme downloaded earlier in the week may no longer reflect weather or aircraft availability. Local announcements at the site take priority during the event. If a display is delayed, remain behind the barriers and do not assume that the flying area is open. These checks are more reliable than reposted schedules with no publication time.