Update over Red Arrows appearance at Blackpool Air Show

Monday, 18 May 2026 16:15

By Richard Hunt

The world-famous Red Arrows will not be taking part in this year’s Blackpool Air Show, it has been confirmed.

The spectacular display team performed to hundreds of thousands of people who packed the Prom last August for the annual Air Show.

But the Red Arrows will be in North America this summer for a 13-date, month-long tour.

The tour is expected to generate more than £2.5bn in direct foreign investment for the UK.

But the absence of the Red Arrows is a major blow for tourism bosses in Blackpool who will be confirming a suitable replacement in the near future.

The show will be bolstered by the other key attractions, however.

Will Myles, Head of VisitBlackpool, said: “Unfortunately the RAF Red Arrows will not perform at the 2026 Blackpool Air Show due to other commitments.

“We know how much residents and visitors look forward to seeing the team over our seafront. We fully respect the important role they play in representing the UK at home and around the world, and we look forward to welcoming them back in future years. The Royal Air Force are still supporting Blackpool with their Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight displays teams.

“The Blackpool Air Show remains one of the most iconic free events in the UK. In the coming weeks, we will reveal the full programme of high‑impact displays, crowd favourites and exciting new additions that will ensure the event continues to deliver the world‑class experience our visitors expect.”

The Red Arrows’ return to the US will mark the first significant deployment to North America since 2019.

The RAF has been approached for a comment.

The Red Arrows have been enthralling audiences at the Blackpool Air Show since the 1990s and are expected to make a return next year.