Scottish first as night-time spectacular set to light up Ayrshire's skies
A night-time flying and fireworks spectacular – the first of its kind in Scotland – is set to kick-off this year’s new-look Scottish International Airshow on Friday 2 September.
A night-time flying and fireworks spectacular – the first of its kind in Scotland – is set to kick-off this year’s new-look Scottish International Airshow on Friday 2 September. The new-look Airshow – for which South Ayrshire Council is the main sponsor and funding partner – will include aerobatic fun and excitement at the Low Green at Ayr seafront on Friday 2 AND Saturday 3 September, giving more people than ever before the chance to see some incredible flying close up.
The fun kicks off on Friday 2 September with a funfair and live music before the world-renowned Aerosparx – who recently took part in celebrations for HRH The Queen’s 90th birthday – take to the skies with an incredible sky-high pyrotechnics show that’s sure to wow crowds. With some fabulous flying courtesy of the amazing Blades Aerobatic Team, and a live music premium tent, the Friday night programme for the Scottish International Airshow 2016 will make sure festivities get going with a bang.
Saturday sees the return of the Royal Marines and the world-famous Red Arrows, who proved a massive hit with the crowds last year. Meanwhile it will be the first appearance for the RAF Falcons Parachute team, who will be showing off their skills with a stunning aerobatic display. Lauren Richardson – the British female aerobatic champion – will also be making an appearance on both days. Other Saturday highlights include the World War Two Battle of Britain Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane, as well as the loudest aircraft on the airshow circuit – the RAF Typhoon. Doug Maclean, Event Manager for the Scottish International Airshow, said: “We’re very enthusiastic about what we’ve planned for 2016 knowing we will continue to excite and wow the crowds with some of the most amazing aircraft, pilots and displays they will ever see. The acts we have coming along are truly world-class and the fact they all want to come and take part in our event shows that the Airshow has continued to grow from strength to strength. “We’re very lucky to have some incredible sponsors, without whom the event simply couldn’t happen – South Ayrshire Council, Event Scotland, Glasgow Prestwick Airport and Virgin Media – and we are grateful for their support. “We’re also indebted to the thousands of people who come along and we would encourage anyone planning a trip to the Scottish International Airshow to check out the great value packages we have on offer this year. But don’t wait too long as numbers are limited!”
While access to the Scottish International Airshow will continue to be free for both days, spaces in a number of exclusive premium ticketed areas will be available, offering the best seats in the house with access to toilets, refreshments and live entertainment. This includes, for the first time, a family enclosure with access to picnic tables, toilets, parking and baby changing. Welcoming disabled facilities will also be provided. For plane-spotters and aircraft lovers, there are exclusive packages available that give access to some of the best photo spots as well as an exclusive, up close photo session with some of the aircraft at Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Details of the different packages – what you get and how much they cost – are all available from the Scottish International Airshow website: www.tsia.scot. South Ayrshire Council – the main sponsor for the event – has contributed £120,000 towards the Scottish International Airshow 2016. Alongside Glasgow Prestwick Airport, it’s also supporting a Scottish International Airshow trade event on Friday 2 September. The Council’s Chief Executive, Eileen Howat, said: “The Scottish International Airshow has grown in magnitude and 2016’s line-up is undoubtedly set to be the best yet. “Last year around 120,000 people enjoyed the air display and demand has led to the addition of another day of flying and entertainment on the Friday. Not only is this a great family event, but it gives the local economy a real boost, generating over £5 million last year, which is something we all benefit from. “We’re happy to continue our support for the Scottish International Airshow and, given our position as the aerospace hub of Scotland, we’re particularly pleased to support the trade and industry event as well as the family fun days. Let’s just hope the sun shines once again this year!” Richard Jenner, Glasgow Prestwick Airport Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to be working for a third year with the Scottish Airshow team and South Ayrshire Council to support the delivery of this fantastic event. The Airshow offers a great opportunity to tell the story of Ayrshire’s long history of aviation and it helps to put us on the map as a hub for aviation and aerospace. “As well as delivering the infrastructure, handling and air traffic control services required to put on an event like this, we will be working with the Airshow organisers to offer exclusive access to our airfield for special ticket holders. “In addition to the support for the public event, we will be working with the Council and a number of other partners to deliver a week-long science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) event for young people interested in a career in aerospace and a number of other STEM industries. There will also be a one day industry conference. All of this will fall under the Scottish International Airshow banner – extending the event to almost a week long programme that covers off education, economic benefits and entertainment.” For full details of the Scottish International Airshow 2016 line-up and ticket information, go to www.tsia.scot. Alternatively, you can keep up to date with the latest news on twitter, using #ScotAir2016.