The iconic RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) will return to the skies of the Essex Sunshine Coast this summer as it joins the line up for the 33rd Clacton Airshow, in the year of the Spitfire’s 90th anniversary.

Staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), the hugely popular seaside airshow will return on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 August, delivering a thrilling programme of aerial displays, with the RAF Red Arrows already confirmed to perform on both days alongside a host of other spectacular flying and ground based attractions.

Airshow organisers are delighted to announce that the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will take place on both days, bringing with it some of the most legendary aircraft in British aviation history — including the Spitfire, which first flew in 1936 and went on to become one of the most recognisable and enduring symbols of British aviation.

The display is currently expected to feature a combination of the Spitfire, Hurricane and C 47 Dakota, subject to operational availability.

Operating from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, the BBMF’s mission is to keep priceless historic aircraft in airworthy condition as a living tribute to those who served and sacrificed their lives in the Second World War.

At the same time, the flight plays a vital role in promoting today’s Royal Air Force and inspiring future generations.

The BBMF fleet includes five Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Dakota, the world famous Lancaster bomber and two Chipmunk training aircraft. Flown by regular and reserve RAF aircrew, the aircraft can be seen across the UK from May to September at major airshows, commemorations and state occasions.

Ivan Hendesron, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said she was thrilled to welcome the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight back to the Essex Sunshine Coast.

“The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight never fails to capture the imagination of our audiences and remains one of the most cherished displays at the Clacton Airshow,” he said.

“To see these aircraft flying together in the year marking 90 years since the Spitfire’s first flight makes the moment even more powerful.

“The unmistakable sound of those engines along the seafront creates a truly special atmosphere, offering spectators a rare and unforgettable close up view of living history.

“These planes are enduring symbols of courage, resilience and skill, and they represent the sacrifices made by so many.

“Seeing them fly over Clacton is always incredibly moving, and a poignant reminder of the role they played in shaping our nation’s history.

“With the Red Arrows confirmed for both days, we’re shaping up an exceptional programme, with even more exciting additions still to be announced.”

Also confirmed for the 2026 flying programme is the RAF Grob Tutor T1, the aircraft used to train RAF pilots. Fully aerobatic and highly manoeuvrable, the Tutor plays a key role in teaching the fundamentals of military flying and is a popular display aircraft at airshows across the country.

Hospitality tickets, which include a delightful two-course meal, canapés, and refreshments, as well as an elevated viewing area, are available to purchase at www.blackjacket.uk with prices at £73 for Thursday and £65 for Friday.

Anyone looking to exhibit at or sponsor the show should contact clactonairshow@tendringdc.gov.uk – while donations to support the event can be made at www.clactonairshow.com.

For updates and more information on the 2026 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, essexsunshinecoast on Instagram, TheSunshineCoastOfficial on Facebook or go to the official Facebook event.

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