Airborne Pyrotechnics are set to return to the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight, performing over Ayr shorefront on Friday, September 4 and Saturday, September 5.
World première of James Horner composition
Their performances will be accompanied by a newly discovered piece of music by the late film composer James Horner. Recorded by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), the composition, titled Skyward Spirit, will make its world première during the Friday evening pyrotechnics display.
The father-and-son display team have been a staple at the airshow since 2023, and the local authority is excited to have them back for two unique displays.
Two distinct displays planned
For their twilight performance, the team will light up the skies over South Ayrshire in aerobatic aircraft equipped with LEDs and pyrotechnics on the wing tips. For their afternoon performance, they will swap the pyro for coloured smoke to paint patterns across the skies.
The RSNO will also be in attendance, with their Brass Quintet performing on the Low Green on both days. Members of the RSNO’s Learning and Engagement team will give attendees the chance to try orchestral instruments in their Festival Village marquee.
Council and partner reactions
Councillor Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “With another impressive act joining the flying display schedule, excitement will no doubt be building among aviation enthusiasts and airshow fans.”
Councillor Alec Clark, Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, said: “Given the continued popularity of their displays, I’m sure festival-goers will be delighted to see Airborne Pyrotechnics back on the bill. Securing them for both days of the airshow is a fantastic boost to the programme and will help ensure another memorable weekend for visitors and residents alike.”
Councillor Chris Cullen, Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, said: “The airshow is a key moment in our events calendar, bringing communities together and showcasing everything our area has to offer. Having the RSNO in the Festival Village gives people a unique opportunity to pick up and try out a new instrument too.”
Les Garside-Beattie OBE, Flying Display Director for the International Ayr Show, said: “I’ve worked with the team at a number of events over a number of years. Each time, they have provided stunning displays that have always proved to be a crowd pleaser for every audience, and I’m delighted that they are returning to join us again Ayr.”
Gavin Davey, Area Director at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “While visitors’ eyes are drawn to the action in the skies, the RAF Benevolent Fund remains dedicated to supporting members of the RAF family facing hardship, loneliness and wellbeing challenges. We invite any RAF veterans to come and see us at our stand in the Military Village.”
The RAF Benevolent Fund is the official charity partner for the airshow, and its fourth year as Charity Partner. Updates on flying displays are available on South Ayrshire Council’s social media channels and the Destination South Ayrshire website.
