Due to Covid-19, Guernsey will be one of only four British Isles display venues to hold a full display this year; it also the only seafront airshow and one of only three full displays performed by the Red Arrows in the 2020 season.
Guernsey is traditionally at the end of the display season, which has been a great benefit this year as it has enabled the event to go ahead.
The day’s schedule is subject to change up to the display itself, but is currently:
- 11.00 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Spitfire and Hurricane)
- 11.15 The Blades
- 11.33 CI AirSearch
- 11.46 Yakovlevs
- 12.00 Muscle Biplane
- 12.15 Fireflies
- 12.31 Catalina
- 12.50 Red Arrows
“We must thank all the display teams for their enormous support and co-operation in putting this year’s display together. Due to a variety of reasons, two teams have stepped in this week and have moved other commitments around to accommodate our display,” said Barry Neal, Flying Display Director. “It is a testament to the relationship we have developed with all these teams and the enjoyment they have displaying in Guernsey.”
Guernsey will be the Fireflies’ first display on Britain following four displays earlier this year in Poland and the island will host the first public display of 2020 for the Muscle Biplane, The Blades as well as the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight which will see the Spitfire and Hurricane soar over the Little Russel.
Squadron Leader Adam Collins, Red 10 and Supervisor of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, said: “Being part of the Guernsey Air Display is a highlight of any display season – the island provides a stunning backdrop for our show and the warmest of welcomes.
“The Red Arrows always aim to complete a dynamic, thrilling and precision display which demonstrates the excellence of the Royal Air Force and inspires all those watching. This is exactly the same for 2020 and it is particularly poignant this year as we help to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.”
Natalie Davidson, from Black Vanilla says: “We’re delighted to be able to host one of the only full air displays in the British Isles this season, it’s always a highlight in the Guernsey calendar and is the perfect way to round off the summer.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the fantastic work by the teams at the Guernsey Air Display Foundation and Public Health. Castle Cornet’s staff have been incredibly helpful in assisting us with the work that goes on behind the scenes.
“The Guernsey Air Display is fully funded by the generous support of the people and businesses of Guernsey alongside a grant from Culture and Heritage. It is a true show of #GuernseyTogether at its best and we’re sure it’ll be a Battle of Britain Air Display to remember.”
The display organisers have listed the best locations in Guernsey view the display, which will be signposted from Wednesday morning, until after the display on Thursday. The following five east coast locations are recommended viewing spots:
- Bulwer Avenue
- Salerie Corner
- Candie Gardens
- Albert Pier
- Jerbourg Point
For more information about the display please head to the website www.guernseyairdisplay.com or find them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.