Ayr's Festival of Flight air show given green light for planning
Councillors are hoping it will be a boost for local tourism.
Last updated 28th Nov 2022
South Ayrshire’s new look air show has officially been given the green light after the council were given permission to start planning the event.
Council officers can now work on plans for the air show which has been re-named ‘The International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight.
Its after an agreement was reached this week at an audit and governance meeting, where South Ayrshire Council officers provided the panel with information on costs for the delivery of the proposed event.
It now means the skies across Ayr shore front will be filled with some amazing aviation displays in Autumn 2023.
The council's partners for the event have already identifyed a range of military displays that have expressed interest in appearing at the show and are looking into what civilian aircraft demonstrations are available.
Councillors are now hoping it will be a huge tourist boost for the area next year.
Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs, Councillor Alec Clark said: “The International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight is an event that many local people and visitors have been waiting for, so it’s wonderful to begin to see plans develop and it will be great to work in partnership with the RAF Benevolent Fund.”
“Attracting tourists is key to making South Ayrshire stand out as a destination of choice. A new air show, as part of a proposed calendar of events for 2023, would raise the profile of Ayr and the surrounding area, adding to its appeal to visitors.”
Officers were also given the go ahead to begin identifying event sponsors, with the official partner for the air show being announced as the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.
Gavin Davey, RAF Benevolent Fund Director Scotland, said: “The International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight is a great opportunity to work with South Ayrshire Council to reach out to the RAF Family who may be in need in Ayrshire, the West of Scotland and across the country as a whole, and let them know about the extensive welfare support offered by the RAF Benevolent Fund.
“We look forward to working with all those connected with the airshow to make it a huge success.”
Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Martin Dowey added: “It’s great to see further progress being made towards bringing a spectacular new airshow to Ayr next year. The event would bring a real boost to the local area.
“I’m delighted that The RAF Benevolent Fund has been chosen as our charity partner and it will be a privilege to support this very worthy cause.”