Planning begins for air show return in 2023

DETAILED planning for the return of Ayr’s international airshow has begun – and the event has been given a name.

The International Ayr Show Festival of Flight has been pencilled in for September 8, 9 and 10 next year – the first time Ayr will have hosted an airshow since 2018.

Work is also under way on identifying sponsors for the event, while the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund has been chosen as the charity partner.

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.”

Councillor Alec Clark, South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for tourism, culture and rural affairs, said: “Attracting tourists is key to making South Ayrshire stand out as a destination of choice. A new airshow, 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.”

Councillor Brian Connolly, the authority’s portfolio holder for sport and leisure, added: “This is yet another step in the right direction to bring a high profile event to South Ayrshire.

“More great events and festivals in the area means increased footfall, and The International Ayr Show Festival of Flight would certainly do just that.”