REVIEW: Bray Air Display 2024
The Bray Air Display, held annually along the charming Victorian seafront of Bray, County Wicklow, celebrated its 19th year in 2024, cementing its status as Ireland’s leading aviation spectacle. Since its inception in 2005, this free event has grown into a vital cornerstone of the local tourism economy, drawing thousands to the picturesque coastal town each summer. The 2024 edition, staged on August 3rd, unfolded under glorious sunshine, with the Irish Sea sparkling beneath a sky alive with aerial artistry. Beyond the flying displays, the ground buzzed with activity—families enjoyed the Seafront Funfair, while static displays from the Irish Defence Forces offered a close-up look at military hardware. A particular highlight was the presence of the Irish Navy’s LÉ James Joyce, a Samuel Beckett-class offshore patrol vessel docked just off the coast exclusively for the show. Its sleek silhouette not only provided a striking photographic backdrop but also allowed visitors a rare chance to admire this impressive ship up close, enhancing the event’s maritime flair.
For a seafront airshow with such a rich history, the Bray Air Display remains a remarkable achievement, orchestrated by a dedicated team amidst the challenges of rising costs and unpredictable variables. The event’s setting along Bray’s promenade, framed by the gentle curve of the coastline and the looming Bray Head, is nothing short of stunning—a natural amphitheatre for aviation enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. This year’s clear weather amplified the experience, with the sun casting long shadows over the Food and Craft Village, where local vendors thrived amid the festival atmosphere. Helicopter pleasure flights over Bray Head offered a thrilling perspective of the action, while the Irish Navy’s presence added a unique dimension, tying the event to Ireland’s broader military heritage. Yet, despite these highs, the 2024 show was marred by significant setbacks that tested the resilience of both organizers and attendees, leaving a bittersweet note on an otherwise triumphant day.
Sadly, the 2024 Bray Air Display will be remembered as much for what didn’t happen as for what did. A wave of cancellations hit the event hard, with no explanations forthcoming from the organizers, leaving spectators frustrated and disappointed. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Avro Lancaster, Supermarine Spitfire, and Hawker Hurricane were notable absentees—though their absence was somewhat understandable, given the Lancaster’s ongoing maintenance and the grounding of BBMF’s Merlin-engine fighters following a tragic crash earlier in the season. However, the list of no-shows extended further, including the crowd-pleasing Aerosuperbatic Wingwalkers, the Irish Historic Flight’s Stearman, North American T-6 Texan, and Sean Bennett’s Stearman. Most galling for aviation fans was the absence of three rare Irish-based historic aircraft: the De Havilland DH.104 Dove, Beech H-18 Tri-Gear, and Grumman G-21A Goose, whose unexplained cancellations robbed the show of significant highlights.
Perhaps the most disheartening omission was the Irish Air Corps’ Silver Swallows Aerobatic Team. Though their participation was never officially confirmed—organizers traditionally keep Irish Air Corps appearances under wraps until the day—the team’s failure to perform was a blow. The Silver Swallows have been a dazzling feature of past Bray displays, and their absence from Irish airshows in 2024, including Bray, left a void that was keenly felt. With so many cancellations, the event’s lineup was noticeably thinner than in previous years, a huge disappointment for an airshow of this stature and a reminder of the fragility of such spectacles in the face of logistical and operational challenges.
Despite the reduced roster, the flying displays that did take place were a testament to the skill and dedication of the pilots and parachutists involved. While the skies weren’t as busy as hoped, those who flew delivered performances that thrilled the crowd and salvaged the day. The Irish Air Corps stepped up with a spirited display of their Airbus EC-135P2+, a twin-engine light helicopter that evolved from the MBB Bo 105. Flown with precision, it showcased its versatility—used by the Irish for training, police support, and transport—its agility a delight against the coastal backdrop.
Making its Bray debut was the Irish Air Corps’ Airbus C-295 MSA, a cutting-edge maritime surveillance aircraft that replaced the ageing CN-235 fleet. This sleek machine, designed for search and rescue, anti-smuggling, and monitoring Ireland’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone, impressed with its size and modern lines, marking a proud moment for the Irish Defence Forces. Its flypast was a subtle but powerful statement of technological advancement.
The Irish Defence Forces also brought the ‘Black Knights’ Parachute Display Team, who leapt from the EC-135P2+ with smoke trailing behind them. Their pinpoint landing on the beach drew cheers from the crowd, a vivid display of skill that underscored the military’s contribution to the day’s excitement.
History took flight with the Irish Historic Flight’s de Havilland Canada Chipmunk T.20, a former Irish Air Corps trainer that evoked nostalgia with its gentle aerobatics. Paired with it was the Reims Rocket FR.172H Skyhawk II, making its airshow debut since joining the flight. Built-in 1972 under license from Cessna, this aircraft—far more than a standard 172 thanks to its 210bhp Rolls-Royce Continental engine and hard points for rocket pods—served the Irish Air Corps for 47 years in roles like border surveillance and target towing. The duo arrived in formation, executing graceful flypasts before splitting into solo routines, the Chipmunk’s graceful aerobatics contrasting with the Rocket’s dynamic wing rocks and wave-like passes.
The unmistakable howl of the North American P-51 Mustang “Miss Helen” reverberated across Bray, a highlight that never fails to stir the soul. This World War II icon, flown with flair, ripped through the sky with high-speed passes and smooth aerobatics, its Rolls-Royce Merlin engine a symphony of power that left the crowd in awe.
From the Aircraft Restoration Company came the Supermarine Spitfire PR XI PL983, a photo-reconnaissance variant that danced gracefully above the seafront. Its elliptical wings and sleek fuselage were a sight to behold, and the display—a blend of elegance and precision—paid homage to the Spitfire’s enduring legacy.
The Consolidated PBY Catalina ‘Miss Pick Up,’ Europe’s only flying example, brought a touch of amphibious history to the show. Its slow, low passes along the coast allowed spectators to marvel at its unique parasol wing and wartime legacy, a graceful nod to the past.
Rich Goodwin brought his Jet Pitts to Bray, a jet-powered twist on the classic Pitts Special. His unlimited freestyle aerobatics pushed the biplane to its limits, delivering heart-stopping manoeuvres that showcased both his daring and the aircraft’s extraordinary capabilities.
The Royal Jordanian Falcons, now regulars at Bray, returned with their Extra 330LX aircraft. Their tight formation aerobatics were a masterclass in synchronization, blending grace and power in a routine that has become a firm favourite with the Bray crowd.
The Irish Coast Guard’s Sikorsky S-92 made what may have been its final Bray appearance, as the service transitioned to AW189 helicopters. A stalwart of search and rescue operations, the S-92’s display highlighted its versatility and the crew’s expertise, a fitting farewell to a trusted workhorse.
Team Raven, flying six Van’s RV-8 aircraft, dazzled with their formation aerobatics. Their tight, synchronized manoeuvres showcased the agility of these homebuilt machines and the pilots’ impeccable teamwork, keeping the audience enthralled.
An unexpected treat came from Aer Lingus, whose Airbus A320ceo stepped in for the planned A320neo display. This large airliner performed flypasts with sharp banks and varied configurations, a spectacular sight that harked back to Bray’s tradition of airliner displays—once common due to its proximity to Dublin Airport, now a rare delight.
Eddie Goggins, dubbed “The Flying Dentist” for his day job as a dental surgeon, flew his CAP-232 with finesse. This lightweight aerobatic machine, known for its agility, was put through a spirited routine that highlighted Goggins’ skill and added a personal touch to the lineup.
On the ground, the Seafront Funfair kept younger visitors entertained, while the Food and Craft Village offered a taste of local flavor. Static displays and helicopter flights rounded out a robust slate of attractions that kept the promenade lively throughout the day.
Despite the cancellations, the 2024 Bray Air Display soared thanks to the efforts of the organizers and the brilliance of the performers. The event’s ability to adapt and deliver under pressure speaks to its importance to Bray and its loyal audience.
The stunning seaside venue, bathed in summer light, remains a perfect stage for this annual spectacle. While the absences stung, the quality of what remained ensured that the day was far from a washout, leaving spectators with memories to cherish.
As the LÉ James Joyce stood sentinel offshore, the event underscored its unique blend of aviation and maritime heritage. The organizers’ resilience in the face of adversity kept the spirit of Bray alive, promising a strong return in future years.
For all its challenges, the Bray Air Display 2024 proved that even a leaner lineup can deliver thrills. The dedication of those involved ensured that this cherished event continues to inspire, captivate, and unite the community.
With its rich history and breathtaking setting, Bray remains a jewel in Ireland’s airshow crown. Here’s to many more years of soaring skies over this beloved coastal town.
