EASTBOURNE’S famous International Airshow will return in 2026 after organisers confirmed the event successfully met its cost-neutral target this summer.
The four-day festival of flight, held in August, drew bumper crowds thanks to a mix of sunshine and spectacular aerial displays.
With sponsorship, commercial sales and public donations covering the £500,000 running costs, the show broke even, securing its future for another year.
Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors, Airbourne is the UK’s biggest free seafront airshow and a major driver of tourism, injecting millions into the local and regional economy. Businesses, hotels and attractions across the town reported a surge in trade, while the event also helped boost the national staycation market by showcasing Eastbourne as a prime holiday destination.
Despite its success, organisers stress that continued financial backing from sponsors and visitors is essential. As a free event, Airbourne relies on ongoing support to fund both the high-profile flying displays and the extensive temporary infrastructure needed each year.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism & Place, Cllr Jenny Williams said: “Airbourne 2025 was an incredible achievement and our thanks and congratulations go to all of those who contributed in any way – be it through donations, sponsorship, volunteering or as an event partner. Your support created one of the biggest tourism drivers in our local economy, enjoyed by all generations across our wonderful seafront.
“The work doesn’t stop now though and amid rising costs, the challenge is back on to keep Airbourne flying. Eastbourne needs continued support to remain an airshow town and we are asking businesses and organisations now – please join us in making next year the best yet!”
While businesses are being called upon to join as airshow partners, PRG Marketing Communications are the first sponsor to announce a return in 2026. The Eastbourne-based agency was instrumental behind this year’s eye-catching airshow branding and souvenir programme design, helping to break sales records over the four days.
Simon Groves, Managing Director of PRG Marketing Communications, said: “PRG is proud to once again be sponsoring the design and creative for the Eastbourne Airshow, marking our third consecutive year being involved. Airbourne is the highlight of the Eastbourne summer events calendar and the 2025 show was the best one that we can recall, so we’re looking forward to helping to make 2026 even better”.
Airbourne returns for its 32nd year from Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August 2026 and entry is free. Bookings for hospitality and seating will open over the coming months, however fans can support the show now with a one-off donation or a monthly pledge from as little as £2 a month.
Voted UK’s Best Free Airshow five times, fans can also show their support by voting for Airbourne in the 2025 Airscene Awards at www.airscene.co.uk/Airscene-Awards-2025.php.
For more information, to donate or to sign up for exclusive updates and receive on sale notifications visit www.EastbourneAirshow.com.
To support the show with sponsorship contact: EastbourneEvents@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk.
