Spitfire display will be part of new airshow

A brand-new major aviation spectacle is preparing to take to the skies, as an inaugural air show arrives at Thruxton Aerodrome on 12th-13th September 2026.

Organisers say the event which features a Spitfire aerial display and wingwalkers ‘promises a weekend of high-energy flying displays, heritage aircraft and modern aerial entertainment’.

The Hampshire Air Festival is set to become one of the South of England's standout aviation events, transforming Thruxton Aerodrome near Andover into a hub of aircraft, entertainment and family-friendly attractions for two full days in September.

The festival will celebrate ‘The Age of Flight’; showcasing aviation's remarkable journey from its earliest pioneers to modern technology.

The event programme features aircraft representing more than a century of aviation history.

Confirmed displays include the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota and Spitfires, the legendary Supermarine Spitfire RR232 "City of Exeter", the spectacular RAF Chinook Role Demonstration Team, and the only airworthy MiG-17F in Europe, travelling from Poland for this rare appearance.

The flying programme also features modern aerobatic excellence with performers including Steven Bakhtiari, recently crowned Unlimited National Aerobatic Champion, the thrilling Global Stars Aerobatic Team, the famous AeroSuperbatics Wingwalkers, and aviation innovator Rich Goodwin flying his remarkable jet-powered Pitts Special.

Across the weekend, visitors can enjoy:

• Vintage aircraft displays, including First World War aircraft from the Great War Display Team
• Classic warbirds celebrating aviation heritage, including multiple Spitfires, a Mustang and the P-47 Thunderbolt "Nellie"
• Military aircraft and helicopter demonstrations
• Precision formation aerobatic teams including the cold war jets, the Strikemaster Pair
• Military re-enactors, a motorbike stunt team, interactive ground attractions, family activities
• Hands on aviation-themed STEM experiences and community displays
• Static aircraft display and meet the pilot opportunities

Saturday visitors will also experience a spectacular evening programme featuring a dusk afterburner display from the MiG-17F, illuminated pyro-aerobatic flying acts, and a large drone and light show finale.

Organisers told Salisbury Radio, “The festival has been designed as much more than an airshow. With attractions for aviation enthusiasts, families, photographers and history lovers alike, Hampshire Air Festival offers a full day out that combines heritage, innovation and entertainment in one unique event.”

Find out more and see which aircraft are displaying each day and to book tickets at www.hampshireairfestival.co.uk