NI International Airshow Announces Full Lineup, Timings, and Rocket Launch for 2024 Event
Portrush, Northern Ireland – The NI International Airshow, Northern Ireland’s only airshow this year and one of the few on the island of Ireland, has officially announced its full lineup for the 2024 event. Scheduled for Saturday, 7th September, and Sunday, 8th September, the airshow will feature a dazzling array of aerial performances, including a special rocket launch on Saturday.
The Portrush Airshow has a rich history, previously held annually at the West Strand and then the East Strand. The last edition, known as Air Waves, took place at the East Strand in 2019. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airshow was put on hold, and although it was set to return in 2022 under the new branding of NI International Airshow, the event was cancelled as a mark of respect following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. With no airshow in 2023 either, this year’s event marks the first edition of the rebranded NI International Airshow and the first airshow in Portrush in many years.
This year, the airshow will span a new location, covering the entire event site from Ballyreagh Golf Course to Kerr Street Green, offering spectators a broader and more immersive experience.
Irish Coast Guard S-92 S&R Demo
Portrush Airshow 2018
The 2024 lineup includes a mix of historic and modern aircraft, promising an unforgettable spectacle:
RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster: This legendary World War II bomber will pay tribute to the heroes of the Battle of Britain, with its deep, resonant engines evoking a sense of history and honour.
RAF Typhoon: The Typhoon, a state-of-the-art multi-role fighter, will demonstrate its incredible speed, agility, and cutting-edge technology, showcasing the pinnacle of modern aviation.
RAF Tutor: This training aircraft will highlight the precision and skill involved in pilot training within the RAF, offering a glimpse into the foundational stages of a pilot’s career.
Irish Air Corps PC-9M: This advanced trainer aircraft will perform intricate manoeuvres, showcasing the expertise of the Irish Air Corps.
Irish Coast Guard S92 Search and Rescue Demo: Exclusive to Sunday, this demonstration will exhibit the life-saving operations of the S92 helicopter, a crucial asset in maritime rescue missions.
The Starlings: Flying the Extra NG, this aerobatic team will perform high-energy routines, demonstrating the aircraft’s exceptional manoeuvrability.
Rich Goodwin Jet Pitts: An aerobatic marvel fitted with a powerful engine and two additional jet engines, the Jet Pitts will deliver a thrilling performance of loops, rolls, and high-speed passes.
Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers: Known for their daredevil stunts, the Wingwalkers will captivate audiences with their gravity-defying routines atop biplanes.
Norwegian Historical Squadron Vampire: This vintage jet fighter will transport attendees back in time, offering a glimpse into the early days of jet-powered flight.
Bronco Demo Team OV-10B Bronco: The versatile OV-10B will demonstrate its unique capabilities, from agility to reconnaissance.
Calidus Autogyro: Piloted by Peter Davies, this distinctive aircraft will showcase its agility and unique flight characteristics.
Airborne Pyrotechnics: A Saturday evening pyro display will light up the skies with a mesmerizing combination of aerobatics and fireworks.
SF260: Flown by Paul Freeland, this nimble trainer aircraft will demonstrate its versatility and performance.
Hurricane Mk.I: Piloted by Trevor Dugan, this legendary World War II fighter will pay homage to its storied past with a powerful display.
Special Rocket Launch
Adding an extra layer of excitement, the Ulster Rocketry Society plans to launch a rocket from the beach on Saturday afternoon, weather permitting. The rocket is expected to reach an altitude of 3000ft, promising to be a highlight of the event.
Flight Schedule
Saturday, 7th September
1:30 PM - 1:38 PM: RAF Typhoon Display Team
1:45 PM - 1:55 PM: OV-10B Bronco - Tony De Bruyn
2:00 PM - 2:08 PM: RAF Tutor Display Team
2:15 PM - 2:23 PM: Irish Air Corps PC-9M
2:30 PM - 2:40 PM: RAF BBMF Lancaster
2:43 PM - 2:53 PM: Norwegian Historical Squadron Vampire FB.5
3:12 PM - 3:42 PM: Rocket Launch
4:00 PM - 4:08 PM: Calidus Autogyro - Peter Davies
4:11 PM - 4:21 PM: SF260 - Paul Freeland
4:24 PM - 4:34 PM: Hurricane Mk.I - Trevor Dugan
4:39 PM - 4:51 PM: Jet Pitts - Richard Goodwin
4:54 PM - 5:12 PM: Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers
5:15 PM - 5:30 PM: The Starlings
8:10 PM - 8:20 PM: Airborne Pyrotechnics
Sunday, 8th September
1:05 PM - 1:20 PM: Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers
1:24 PM - 1:36 PM: Jet Pitts - Richard Goodwin
1:40 PM - 1:55 PM: The Starlings
2:00 PM - 2:10 PM: RAF BBMF Lancaster
2:15 PM - 2:25 PM: Norwegian Historical Squadron Vampire FB.52
2:30 PM - 2:40 PM: SF260 - Paul Freeland
2:45 PM - 2:55 PM: Calidus Autogyro - Peter Davies
3:00 PM - 3:10 PM: Hurricane Mk.I - Trevor Dugan
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM: Irish Coast Guard S-92/RNLI Lifeboat
3:50 PM - 3:58 PM: RAF Typhoon Display Team
4:03 PM - 4:11 PM: RAF Tutor Display Team
4:15 PM - 4:25 PM: OV-10B Bronco - Tony De Bruyn
Note: The program and timings are subject to change based on weather conditions and aircraft availability.
The NI International Airshow 2024 is set to be an unmissable event for aviation enthusiasts and families alike, promising a weekend of high-flying excitement and historic homage.
For more information about the airshow, visit the NI International Airshow website by clicking here.
