Clacton Airshow 2025 has wrapped up after two thrilling days of aerial displays, heritage aircraft, and vibrant ground attractions – drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to one of the UK’s most popular free events.

Now in its 32nd year, the show returned on Thursday and Friday (21–22 August) with the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’, celebrating aviation heroes past and present – including the return of crowd-favourite, the RAF Red Arrows.

Organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the event featured everything from iconic warbirds to cutting-edge aerobatics.

Thursday’s day-time display included the Rolls-Royce Heritage Flight’s Spitfire PRXIX, the P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’, the de Havilland Vampire, the Westland Lynx AH7 helicopter, the OV-10B Bronco, and RAF Grob Tutor T1 – and was brought to a close with a daring display by the Red Arrows.

The twilight display – sponsored by Red Nova IT Solutions – then lit up the evening skies on Thursday with Otto the Helicopter, The Firebirds, and P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’, followed by spectacular fireworks from Clacton Pier.

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The Mustangs flew in tribute to Little Zippie, a fellow P-51D that tragically crashed off Clacton 80 years ago, and is now preserved at the East Essex Aviation Museum in Point Clear, St Osyth.

Friday brought sunshine and even larger crowds as the Red Arrows kick started the second day of high-flying fun before the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Spitfire and Hurricane took to the skies in a stirring tribute to the flying legends of the Second World War.

Standout performances on Friday also included the agile Team RaVen, the mighty BAC Strikemaster Pair, the historic Fairey Swordfish Mk1, and Rich Goodwin’s ever-popular Pitts Special.

For the first time, the entire show was livestreamed via AeroView TV, reaching thousands more at home, while BBC Essex’s Radio Airshow provided live commentary throughout.

On the ground, the West Greensward site featured a replica Chinook helicopter, military outreach exhibits and artisan stalls.

Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Clacton Airshow remains one of the East of England’s premier summer events – and this year’s show truly raised the bar.

“It’s a breathtaking celebration of aviation and heritage, featuring world-class pilots, iconic aircraft, and an atmosphere that’s simply unmatched.

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“Whether people joined us on the ground or tuned in via the new livestream, Clacton Airshow 2025 delivered an unforgettable experience.

“My heartfelt thanks go to everyone who made it possible – from our dedicated team to our sponsors and partners.

“With an estimated £12million boost to the district’s economy, the value of this event is clear – and the people of Clacton are rightly proud of it.”

Jessica Bryan, Clacton Airshow Director, added: “It’s been an absolute joy to see Clacton Airshow come to life this year.

“From the roar of the Red Arrows to the sparkle of the twilight display, the energy on the seafront has been incredible.

“We’re proud to have delivered a show that celebrates both the legends of aviation and the spirit of our community.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came, supported, and helped make it happen – we’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone back next August.”

Clacton Airshow will return in August 2026.

We value your support – to keep Clacton Airshow in the skies, please donate here.

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