REVIEW: Fingal Rush Air Display 2024
Nestled on the picturesque Irish Sea coast, Rush Harbour in Fingal, County Dublin, serves as the enchanting backdrop for one of the Republic of Ireland’s premier aviation events—the Fingal Rush Air Display. Situated between the charming towns of Skerries and Lusk, Rush Harbour is a serene seaside commuter town renowned for its small yet bustling harbour. With a population of around 10,800, Rush has seamlessly transitioned from its historical roots as Ireland’s “market garden” to a thriving commuter hub on the northern fringes of the Greater Dublin Area. The town’s slightly hilly coastal geography, dotted with streams like St. Catherine’s and Kenure, and its rich tapestry of history dating back to Neolithic times, adds a unique flavour to the air display, making it not just an aviation event but a celebration of Rush’s vibrant culture and heritage.
This year, the Fingal Rush Air Display was a highlight of the Rush Harbour Festival, a four-day extravaganza that ran from Friday, August 2nd, to Monday, August 5th. While the festival itself is a bustling affair filled with family-friendly activities, parades, live music, and delectable food stalls, the air display took centre stage on Sunday, August 4th. Unlike traditional airshows that are often ticketed and targeted towards aviation enthusiasts, the Fingal Rush Air Display is a free event designed with families in mind. This accessibility, coupled with the welcoming atmosphere and the stunning seaside location, made it an ideal outing for locals and visitors alike.
The decision to host the air display on Sunday was strategic, allowing the much larger Bray Air Display to take place on Saturday. This scheduling not only maximized the participation of shared display acts but also relieved traffic and congestion, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience for attendees. Despite the flying displays being set up at a considerable distance from the main spectator areas, organizers successfully maintained a vibrant and engaging environment. Families could enjoy the spectacle overhead while relishing in the festival’s various attractions and indulging in some of the finest local and international cuisines available.
However, the route to this successful event was not without its challenges. Leading up to the display on Sunday, August 4th, weather forecasts predicted a day marred by slow-moving rain and poor visibility—particularly disheartening for an outdoor event often at the mercy of Irish weather. Moreover, August temperatures were unseasonably chilly, adding an extra layer of discomfort for the attendees. Yet, as if touched by luck, the heavens decided to part mere minutes before the flying displays were set to commence at 3 PM. The sudden clearing skies ushered in a perfect day for aviation enthusiasts, ensuring that the displays went on as scheduled and remained uninterrupted, much to the delight of all present.
The line-up for the Fingal Rush Air Display was ambitious, featuring 16 aircraft scheduled to dazzle the crowd. Unfortunately, unforeseen cancellations cast a shadow over the event’s initial promise. Six acts—among them two Irish-based Stearmans, a De Havilland Dove, a Beech H18, and the Irish Air Corps Airbus Helicopters H135—were abruptly withdrawn without explanation. This was particularly disappointing for enthusiasts anticipating the sight of the only Irish Air Corps aircraft at the show. The absence of the AeroSuperbatics Wingwalkers from the UK was perhaps the most heartbreaking cancellation, as they were perennial favourites known for their breathtaking performances. Nevertheless, the organizers rose to the occasion, ensuring that the remaining acts delivered a captivating and memorable display for all attendees.
One of the standout highlights was the Irish Historic Flight Foundation’s impressive display, featuring the beloved de Havilland Canada Chipmunk T.20 and the Reims Rocket (Cessna) FR.172H Skyhawk II. Both aircraft boast a storied history with the Irish Air Corps, adorned in their distinctive IAC colours. The display set the tone with a series of synchronized flypasts in formation, a testament to the skill and coordination of the pilots. As the aircraft gracefully parted ways, each took to the skies for solo demonstrations, showcasing their unique capabilities. This was the inaugural display season for the Reims Rocket with the Irish Historic Flight Foundation, following its first public appearance at the Bray Air Display the day before. The FR.172H Skyhawk II, a robust six-cylinder aircraft powered by a Rolls-Royce Continental IO-360D engine, has been an integral part of the Irish Air Corps’ operations for an impressive 47 years, undertaking diverse missions ranging from border surveillance to wildlife surveys. Its historical significance and enduring legacy made its presence at the airshow both nostalgic and inspiring.
Equally captivating was Gerry Humphreys piloting his Vans RV-7, affectionately known as the “flying cow” due to its whimsical white and black dot paint job. Humorous yet highly skilled, Gerry performed a series of basic graceful aerobatics that left the crowd in awe. The RV-7’s sleek design allowed for smooth manoeuvres and precise control, making it a pleasure to watch as Gerry executed elegant loops and sharp turns with ease. His performance was a delightful blend of artistry and technical prowess, embodying the spirit of aviation excellence that the Fingal Rush Air Display aims to promote.
Andrew Fenton’s Christen Eagle II added another layer of sophistication to the event. As the sole Christen Eagle II in Ireland, Andrew’s aircraft was a rare sight, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. His performance featured a series of basic graceful aerobatic maneuvers, each executed with fluidity and grace that showcased both pilot and machine in perfect harmony. The Christen Eagle II’s lightweight frame and responsive controls made it an ideal platform for such displays, allowing Andrew to perform intricate patterns and seamless transitions that captivated the audience’s imagination.
Eddie Goggins, affectionately known as the “Flying Dentist,” took center stage in his CAP 232, delivering a freestyle aerobatic performance that left the audience both thrilled and amazed. Balancing his demanding profession as a dentist with his passion for aviation, Eddie embodies the perfect blend of precision and creativity. Since 2004, he has dominated the Irish aerobatic scene, clinching the title of Irish Aerobatic Champion five times and earning a prestigious Bronze medal at the 2008 World Advanced Championships in the USA. These achievements underscore his exceptional skill and dedication to the art of aerobatics.
During his display, Eddie transformed the skies into a dynamic canvas, orchestrating a series of awe-inspiring maneuvers that danced in time with an evocative musical backdrop. His CAP 232, equipped with white smoke generator, painted vibrant trails that accentuated each twist, dive, and loop. The aircraft’s responsive handling allowed Eddie to execute gravity-defying stunts with remarkable finesse, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captivated both young and old spectators. Whether performing snap rolls or inverted spins, Eddie’s performance was a testament to his unparalleled expertise and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in freestyle aerobatics. His ability to merge technical precision with artistic expression made his display one of the most memorable highlights of the Fingal Rush Air Display.
The Irish Coast Guard’s Sikorsky S-92 made a significant display at the Fingal Rush Air Display, marking one of its final appearances in Ireland before the transition to the newer AW189. This majestic helicopter captivated the audience with a series of handling demonstrations, including hovering and winching showcases. The Sikorsky S-92’s impressive size and capabilities were on full display, highlighting the critical role it has played in rescue missions and maritime operations over the years. The graceful movements and precise control exhibited during the demonstrations underscored the helicopter’s reliability and versatility, earning heartfelt appreciation from the crowd.
Adding to the excitement, the Irish Parachute Club executed thrilling jumps from a Cessna 182L Skylane, landing deftly on the beach despite lingering low cloud conditions. Their daring feats brought a sense of adventure and exhilaration to the airshow, demonstrating the thrill of skydiving and the skill required to perform such daring maneuvers safely. The synchronized jumps and graceful landings added a dynamic visual element to the display, emphasizing the diverse range of aerial talents present at the event.
The Fingal Rush Air Display was further elevated by its international participants, bringing a global flair to the event and ensuring a diverse array of aerial performances. Team Raven, hailing from the UK, showcased six Vans RV-8 aircraft in a synchronized display that left spectators mesmerized. Their showmanship included tight formation loops, breaks, and opposition passes, all enhanced by the visual spectacle of white smoke trails that added drama and flair to their maneuvers. Team Raven’s precision and synergy were evident throughout their performance, solidifying their status as favorites among Irish airshow enthusiasts.
Similarly, the Royal Jordanian Falcons took to the skies in their four Extra 330LX aircraft, representing the pinnacle of aerobatic performance. These aircraft, renowned for their power and agility, allowed the team to execute aggressive solo aerobatics alongside polished formation routines. The display featured a mix of synchro loops, tight formations, and negative G maneuvers that showcased the Extra 330LX’s superior performance capabilities. The Falcons’ display was a harmonious blend of technical skill and artistic expression, captivating the crowd with every dive and climb.
Rich Goodwin, piloting his unique Jet Pitts, provided a thrilling and unexpected element to the airshow. As one of the best-known aerobatic pilots, Rich’s appearance was a highlight for many attendees. His Pitts S2S, a world-renowned unlimited aerobatics aircraft, was further modified with larger ailerons and extra wing surfaces, enhancing its roll rate and controllability. But Rich didn’t stop there; he ingeniously attached two small jet engines to the fuselage, transforming his Pitts into a formidable hybrid marvel. The resulting Jet Pitts was not only incredibly maneuverable but also delivered an awe-inspiring roar that resonated throughout the festival grounds. Rich’s ability to hover with his aircraft and perform high-thrust maneuvers added an extra layer of excitement, and his double display was a masterclass in aviation innovation and creativity.
Despite the initial setbacks with multiple cancellations, the Fingal Rush Air Display successfully delivered an engaging and diverse aerial show. The combination of Irish and international acts provided a rich tapestry of performances that catered to a wide range of interests and age groups. Families were particularly taken with the accessible and family-friendly atmosphere, enjoying not only the aerial spectacles but also the array of food stalls offering everything from traditional Irish fare to international delicacies.
The event’s seamless integration into the broader Rush Harbour Festival amplified its appeal, making it a central feature in a weekend full of festivities. The distance of the flying displays from the main spectator area proved inconsequential, as the organizers ensured excellent ground-level entertainment and amenities. The sudden improvement in weather added a touch of serendipity, allowing the airshow to shine without the hindrance of rain or poor visibility.
Moreover, the shared display acts with the Bray Air Display fostered a sense of community and collaboration within the Irish aviation scene. This synergy not only enhanced the quality of the performances but also underscored the camaraderie among pilots and teams across different regions. The presence of long-standing favourites like Team Raven and the Royal Jordanian Falcons highlighted the event’s international appeal, while the participation of esteemed local acts reinforced its national significance.
The Fingal Rush Air Display had not only met but exceeded expectations, delivering a day of thrilling aerial displays, heartfelt community spirit, and memorable family moments. The dedication of the organizers, the skill of the pilots, and the resilience of the attendees in the face of weather challenges coalesced into a truly unforgettable event.
In conclusion, the Fingal Rush Air Display stands as a testament to Rush Harbour’s ability to host world-class events that celebrate both local heritage and international excellence. Despite the hurdles, the display offered a captivating blend of history, skill, and innovation, making it a standout highlight of the Rush Harbour Festival. As enthusiasts and families alike look forward to future editions, the 2024 airshow reaffirms Rush Harbour’s place on Ireland’s aviation map, promising even greater spectacles in the years to come.
