Featuring breathtaking aerobatic displays, state-of-the-art military aircraft, and vintage planes from the past, the Wales Airshow is set to captivate tens of thousands of visitors in Swansea Bay on July 1 and 2, 2023. This eagerly anticipated event promises two days of excitement, both in the air and on the ground, making it an experience not to be missed.
Over the course of the weekend, spectators will witness the world’s finest pilots and flying displays, utilizing the natural amphitheater provided by Swansea Bay. From awe-inspiring jets and helicopters to the renowned Red Arrows, these skilled aviators will showcase their talent through incredible aerial acrobatics. The best part? The event is entirely free for all attendees!
However, the action extends beyond the skies. Swansea Prom undergoes a transformation, hosting ground displays that offer a multitude of engaging activities for visitors of all ages. Indulge in delicious food and drinks from the various trucks, explore virtual reality experiences, enjoy live music performances by talented musicians and bands, witness captivating demonstrations, and engage in thrilling family activities and rides. The entertainment is endless! To explore the full range of ground displays, check out our dedicated page.
It comes as no surprise that the Wales Airshow attracts over 200,000 attendees each year. The event site will be open from 10 am to 6 pm on both days, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the thrilling displays and festivities. So mark your calendars and join us for a weekend of aerial prowess and ground delights!
Now let’s take a look at some of the highlights already confirmed for the 2023 Wales Airshow:
- The prestigious RAF Red Arrows, supported by DS Automobiles at FRF Motors Swansea, will grace the skies on both Saturday and Sunday, showcasing their trademark precision and elegance.
- The mighty Typhoon, a powerful fighter jet, will demonstrate its capabilities on both days, leaving spectators in awe.
- The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will pay homage to history, with the iconic Spitfire, Hurricane, and Lancaster bomber taking to the skies on Saturday and Sunday.
- Team Raven, a popular South Wales-based formation aerobatic display team, will showcase their skills flying self-built aircraft throughout the weekend.
- The Tigers Parachute Display Team, Wildcat Helicopter, AeroSuperBatics Wing walkers, Yak 50, Jet Pitts G-JPIT, Norwegian Vampire, Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, Harvard G-NWHF, Submarine Seafire, and Strikemasters will also dazzle the crowds with their thrilling performances.
In addition to the captivating aerial displays, the Wales Airshow offers an array of ground-based attractions that promise fun for the whole family. Explore flight simulators, static replica aircraft, armed forces vehicles and displays, and much more. Fuel up with a wide range of delectable food and drinks available throughout the ground display area along Oystermouth Road, the Cenotaph, and the Civic Centre. Satisfy your cravings with options like jacket potatoes, curry, burgers, fish and chips, hog roast, crepes, ice cream, doughnuts, sweets, and fudge. You can even enjoy a refreshing beverage at the bar located near the Civic Centre and the Cenotaph.
For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, the airshow presents a unique opportunity to see full-size replica Spitfire and Flea planes up close. Historical promotions representatives will be on hand to provide informative talks and share fascinating details about these iconic British military aircraft. Make sure to step inside and explore the replica Chinook as well!
The Armed Services will also be actively participating in the airshow, offering a multitude of attractions. From the Band of the Prince of Wales to large combat vehicles and information trailers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can even step inside and explore the replica Typhoon for an immersive experience.
For those seeking an extra dose of excitement, the ground displays feature simulators and virtual reality experiences that allow you to feel like you’re standing on an aircraft carrier during takeoff or sitting in the cockpit of an RAF Red Arrow. These immersive attractions will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Moreover, the Air Cadets will return to the Wales Airshow, showcasing interactive displays that highlight the fun activities they participate in as cadets of the services. Don’t miss the chance to engage with these inspiring young individuals.
If you find yourself yearning for a closer encounter with the display teams, the airshow offers the opportunity to meet many of them on the ground. Get to know the talented pilots behind the thrilling performances.
For those who enjoy amusement park rides and games, a funfair and amusements will be available at the Civic Centre and on Oystermouth Road. From thrill-seeking rides to children’s attractions, there’s something to entertain every member of the family.
To add a musical backdrop to the weekend, two stages at the Airshow will provide live music and entertainment throughout the day. Showcasing the best in home-grown talent from South Wales, the stages located at the Cenotaph and Civic Centre will ensure a lively atmosphere for all attendees.
In a special highlight, the much-loved Team Raven will be returning to the Wales Airshow for 2023. This South Wales-based formation aerobatic display team, composed of six highly experienced pilots, will impress the crowds with their exhilarating performance. Flying 21-foot-long Vans RV-8 planes with a maximum speed of 220mph, Team Raven has garnered a reputation for their awe-inspiring displays across Europe. Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies expressed his delight at having Team Raven back in Swansea, recognizing their contribution to the show’s ongoing success.
Accessibility is a priority for the Wales Airshow, and Swansea Council is working diligently to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event. Collaboration with the National Autistic Society (NAS) Swansea branch has resulted in the creation of two accessible viewing areas at the Cenotaph and Civic Centre. These areas provide disability toilet provisions, seating for companions, excellent views of the displays and the beach, and support from NAS Swansea branch supporters for families requiring assistance. Additionally, plans are in place for a quiet viewing area on the first floor of the Civic’s library. Swansea Council emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity and aims to make the airshow a highlight of Swansea’s annual events program for people of all abilities.
To further enhance accessibility, disabled access toilets, including Changing Places facilities, are available at various locations throughout Swansea. Ramps and dropped kerbs have been strategically placed along Oystermouth Road to improve accessibility for all attendees. Additionally, Swansea Mobility Hire provides powered scooters, wheelchairs, and manual wheelchairs to assist those with limited mobility in exploring the city center.
With its incredible aerial displays, captivating ground attractions, and a strong emphasis on accessibility, the Wales Airshow promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. So come join us on July 1 and 2, 2023, as we return to the skies above Swansea Bay for a weekend filled with excitement, entertainment, and a celebration of aviation excellence.
