With Clacton Airshow now just days away, organisers have announced that one of the most famous Spitfires still flying today will join this year's line-up, alongside an exciting programme of ground attractions on the Essex Sunshine Coast.

The 33rd Clacton Airshow, staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), takes place on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 August, bringing together thrilling aerial displays, family entertainment, exhibitors, food concessions and hands-on aviation experiences.

Spitfire MH434, sponsored by MRL Productions, is set to make a special appearance at the free seafront event, giving crowds the chance to see a true icon of British aviation with a remarkable wartime and display flying history.

Built at Vickers-Armstrong's Castle Bromwich factory in 1943, MH434 first flew in the hands of celebrated test pilot Alex Henshaw before entering frontline service with 222 Squadron. The aircraft went on to complete 79 operational sorties during the Second World War and later became a familiar sight on screen in films including Operation Crossbow, Battle of Britain and A Bridge Too Far.

Visitors to the West Greensward Airshow site will have the chance to get up close to aviation technology and learn more about careers in the industry, with the RAF Careers Engagement team bringing a replica Typhoon cockpit and the RAF's popular Batak reaction challenge.

The interactive attraction will allow visitors to step into the cockpit of one of the RAF's most advanced fighter aircraft and test the reflexes needed in high-pressure aviation environments.

The RAF will also be represented on the ground with RAF Careers displays and aviation exhibits, while the flying programme will include the RAF Grob Tutor T1, the aircraft used to train the next generation of RAF pilots.

Alongside the aviation attractions, visitors can enjoy a wide range of trade stands, exhibitors and food concessions across the event site, with local and regional traders including Colchester-based Whippy Bro's, Clacton-based Spud Box and Vintage Shakes among those serving visitors.

Other traders joining the line-up include Pure Pet Food, offering natural products for dogs, Sea Imports with handcrafted goods from Indonesia, and Charles Taylor, who will be showcasing handmade garden furniture. Combat 2 Coffee will also make a welcome return in the services area.

Actual Radio, the official radio broadcast partner of Clacton Airshow 2026, will also be broadcasting live throughout the event, bringing commentary, interviews, music and behind-the-scenes insight from the heart of the action.

For visitors looking to make the most of their day, the official Clacton Airshow programme will be available to purchase on-site for £6, providing flight times, aircraft information and everything needed to enjoy the event. Visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of cash, as programmes and a variety of other attractions, stalls and activities will be available across the event site.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said the attractions on the ground are a big part of what makes Clacton Airshow special.

"While the aircraft are naturally the stars of the show, there is always plenty happening on the ground for visitors to enjoy throughout the day," he said.

"The replica Typhoon cockpit and RAF reaction challenge will give people the chance to get hands-on and experience another side of aviation, while learning more about the skills, training and careers that keep the industry flying.

"Clacton Airshow has always been about much more than what happens in the sky. It's a fantastic family event with a real festival atmosphere, where people can explore the exhibits, enjoy the entertainment, grab something to eat and spend the day on our beautiful seafront.

"Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out, there will be plenty to see and do both on the ground and in the air as we bring this year's theme, A Celebration of Aviation, to life."

The flying programme for this year's event includes the RAF Red Arrows, the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Spitfire MH434, the MiG-17F 'Fresco', Flying Comrades, The Starlings, the Bronco Demo Team, Strikemaster Pair and a refreshed twilight display featuring the Desert Spitfire, Firebirds Aerobatic Team and Otto the Helicopter's pyrotechnic performance.

For updates and more information about the 2026 Clacton Airshow, visit Clacton Airshow website, follow essexsunshinecoast on Instagram, or go to the official Facebook event.

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