The Wales Airshow is set to return to Swansea's waterfront on July 25-26, 2026, with an estimated attendance of over 200,000 people. This year's event introduces a new sunset show called Afterburn, while the Red Arrows will be absent due to their tour in the United States.
Event Schedule and New Afterburn Show
The airshow takes place on Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, 2026. The site opens at 10am and closes at 6pm on both days. A new addition, Afterburn, will feature sunset air displays from 8.30pm to 9.45pm on Saturday only. Spectators can expect pyrotechnic performances from the Otto Helicopter, thrilling manoeuvres from the Firebirds with fireworks, and a grand finale with a choreographed 200-drone display and fireworks.
Aircraft Line-Up
Organisers have confirmed the following aircraft displays over both days:
- RAF Typhoon Display Team – supported by Bassetts Motor Group
- RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – Spitfire, Hurricane and C47 Dakota
- RAF Tutor Display Team
- Strikemaster Pair
- Rolls-Royce Spitfire
- Firebirds Display Team
- OTTO Schweizer 300C Helicopter
- Gazelle Squadron
- Fairey Swordfish
- Westland Wasp
- Aerosuperbatic Wingwalkers
- Wales Airshow Afterburn – Saturday only
Red Arrows Absence
The Red Arrows will not appear at this year's event. According to organisers, the world-famous aerobatic team is spending much of the summer in the United States for displays commemorating 250 years of American independence. The Wales Airshow clashes with the Red Arrows' American tour, which includes performances in Maryland, New York, Wisconsin, Maine and Michigan from late June to late July.
Ground Attractions and Entertainment
Ground displays run from 10am to 6pm on both days, extending from the Civic Centre to Brynmill Lane. Attractions include flight simulators, a funfair, static aircraft, armed forces vehicles, children's entertainers, and live music. Food and drink options include Mediterranean cuisine, woodfired pizzas, Asian fusion bowls, Indian street food, tacos, burgers, fish and chips, and various sweets and beverages.
Road Closures and Parking
Road closures are in place from July 24 to July 27. Oystermouth Road/Mumbles Road will be closed westbound from 12pm July 24, and both directions from 8am July 25 to 5am July 27. Diversions will be in place. Parking is available in four tiers, with prices ranging from £10 to £25. A park and ride service operates from Fabian Way Park and Ride site at £10 per vehicle, running from 8.30am to 10.30pm on Saturday and 8.30am to 8pm on Sunday.
Accessibility
Two accessible viewing areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis, each with disabled access portable toilets, stewards, and foldable chairs. According to organisers, these facilities provide excellent views of the air displays and the beach.
