Portrush Airshow set to welcome biggest array of jets

Council also announces that the free event at Portrush will host displays in the sky never seen in Ireland before during both days (Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September).

“The NI International Airshow is Council’s flagship event held annually in Portrush”, said Mayor of Coleraine Councillor David Harding, “this year will be a very different show as the majority of our aircraft will already be in the country ensuring that we have an event, no matter what the weather!

“Council aims to extend the summer season, supporting visitors and our local businesses while providing a major finale to the summer season for families of all ages to enjoy together. This free weekend provides an opportunity to relax, watch the skies and watch our history fly past over the north coast”.

The Red Star Rebels will fly a pair of Czech L29 fighter jets in a dramatic red and black colour scheme, marking their first display season and first visit to Ireland. The ever popular Hawker Hunter will be returning to the pretty seaside town in the form of the oldest flying example of aircraft, dating from February 1955.

The de Havilland Vampire was the second jet to enter service with the Royal Air Force and will make a noisy and memorable impression in the bay at West Strand. The Jet Provost is an ex-RAF jet trainer and its pilot, Neil McCarthy, will show just how manoeuvrable the jet is.

The jets are just part of the extensive line-up of 25 aircraft including a very special commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic. The ground arena will again feature mock-up aircraft, exhibitions, the Donegal Spitfire, children’s shows, static helicopters and the trade village. These events are also sponsored by RSA Insurance and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board as well as several local businesses.

The displays will be at 12noon-5.30pm each day.