Lancaster to Return to the International Sanicole Airshow in 2025
In a tribute to the heroes of World War II and to mark the 80th anniversary of VE-Day, the International Sanicole Airshow is set to host a truly historic event. The skies above Hechtel-Eksel will once again echo with the roar of the Avro Lancaster, a legendary heavy bomber that played a pivotal role in the Allied victory. This magnificent aircraft, part of the esteemed Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), is one of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world, making its appearance at the airshow a momentous occasion. As aviation enthusiasts and history buffs gather on 13 & 14 September 2025 for the 45th edition of this prestigious event, the Lancaster’s return promises to be a highlight, blending the grandeur of the past with the excitement of the present.
The Avro Lancaster stands as an icon of European aviation history, a four-engine behemoth that dominated the night skies during World War II. Developed from the earlier Avro Manchester bomber, it quickly became the backbone of the Royal Air Force’s Bomber Command, renowned for its imposing 102-foot wingspan and the thunderous power of its four Rolls-Royce Merlin engines. Each engine churned out over 1,200 horsepower, propelling the Lancaster to speeds of up to 275 miles per hour and granting it a range of roughly 2,500 miles. Its cavernous bomb bay could carry an astonishing payload of up to 22,000 pounds, including the massive Grand Slam earthquake bomb, making it one of the most formidable heavy bombers of its era. Over 7,300 Lancasters were built, with variants adapted for roles ranging from photo-reconnaissance to maritime patrol, showcasing the aircraft’s remarkable versatility.
BBMF Avro Lancaster / NI International Airshow
Throughout the war, the Lancaster proved its mettle in countless missions, cementing its place in history. Perhaps its most celebrated exploit was Operation Chastise, better known as the Dambusters Raid, in May 1943. A squadron of specially modified Lancasters, wielding Barnes Wallis’s ingenious ‘bouncing bomb,’ breached the Möhne and Eder dams in Germany’s industrial heartland. The raid’s success disrupted enemy production and lifted Allied spirits, demonstrating the Lancaster’s precision and daring. Beyond this iconic mission, Lancasters flew over 156,000 sorties, dropping more than 600,000 tons of bombs on strategic targets across Europe. They also supported resistance movements by delivering supplies to occupied territories, their reliability and adaptability making them indispensable to the Allied war effort.
At the heart of this airshow’s story is the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, an organization dedicated to keeping the legacy of these wartime aircraft alive. Based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, the BBMF maintains a treasured collection of historic planes, including the Spitfire, Hurricane, Dakota, and their prized Lancaster, known as ‘PA474.’ This particular aircraft, acquired in 1973, has been lovingly restored and maintained, allowing it to soar through the skies as a living tribute to the airmen who flew these machines into battle. The BBMF’s mission goes beyond preservation; it’s about honoring the sacrifices of those who served, ensuring their stories endure for future generations. The sight of PA474 in flight, its engines rumbling with the same power that once carried it over enemy lines, evokes a visceral connection to the 1940s and the courage of its crews.
The rarity of the BBMF’s Lancaster adds an extra layer of significance to its visit to Sanicole. Of the thousands built, only two remain airworthy today: PA474 and another housed in Canada. This scarcity transforms the airshow into a rare opportunity to witness history in motion. For those who attend, the experience will be more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a chance to hear the distinctive growl of those Merlin engines and feel the weight of the past. The Lancaster’s appearance serves as a flying memorial to the thousands of airmen who never returned, a poignant reminder of the cost of victory as we celebrate 80 years since VE-Day in 1945.
The 45th International Sanicole Airshow promises to be a celebration worthy of this milestone. Held at Hechtel-Eksel, the event will feature a dazzling array of aerial displays, from vintage warbirds to cutting-edge military jets. On the ground, attendees can explore historical reenactments, educational exhibits, and even meet veterans eager to share their firsthand accounts. It’s an event designed for all ages, offering a blend of entertainment and enlightenment that appeals to seasoned aviation fans and curious families alike. The Lancaster’s presence elevates the weekend into something extraordinary, tying the festivities to the anniversary of the Allied triumph and the peace it secured.
The men who flew the Lancaster deserve recognition as much as the machine itself. Each aircraft carried a crew of seven—pilot, flight engineer, navigator, bomb aimer, wireless operator, mid-upper gunner, and rear gunner—often young men barely out of their teens. Night after night, they braved enemy fighters, flak, and the constant threat of mechanical failure, their bravery matched only by their determination. Stories like that of Flight Sergeant Nicholas Alkemade, who miraculously survived a 18,000-foot fall without a parachute after his Lancaster was shot down, underscore the extraordinary resilience of these crews. Landing in deep snow with only minor injuries, Alkemade’s tale is just one of many that highlight the human spirit behind the aircraft’s legacy.
For those eager to witness this piece of history, the International Sanicole Airshow on 13 & 14 September 2025 is not to be missed. The Lancaster’s flight will be a centerpiece of a weekend filled with awe-inspiring sights and sounds, offering a tangible link to the past. Tickets are available now, and with confirmation of the BBMF Lancaster’s attendance, demand is expected to soar. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of aviation, the weight of history, or simply the chance to share a unique experience with loved ones, secure your spot at Hechtel-Eksel and be part of this unforgettable celebration of the Avro Lancaster’s enduring legacy.
Visit our preview page for the latest performers list, weather updates, and more by clicking here, or go to the official International Sanicole Airshow website by clicking here.
