A survey conducted at the Guernsey Air Display this year revealed that nearly a third of visitors travelled to the island specifically for the island’s first evening display.
The results have shown that the Display continues to deliver significant benefits to the island’s economy and community. Two thirds of visitors also said they would plan to return for future displays and other Guernsey events – highlighting the event’s value as both a tourism driver and a community celebration.
Natalie Davidson, Event Director at Black Vanilla and organiser of the Guernsey Air Display, said: “The Guernsey Air Display is about so much more than the aircraft in the sky. It boosts our economy, supports local businesses and showcases Guernsey as a place to visit. We’re also incredibly proud of how this event inspires the next generation while bringing our community together. None of it would be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, supporters and the public.”
The Guernsey Air Display Foundation’s mission goes beyond the spectacle in the skies. Through its Educate and Inspire programme, students from schools across the island met aviation professionals including Rich Goodwin, the RAF Typhoon PR Display Team and Recruitment team and local historian Chris Oliver. These sessions showcased the teamwork, dedication, and skill that underpin aviation careers, encouraging young islanders to consider opportunities in the industry.
The Air Display relies heavily on the support of the island’s business community, alongside a grant and underwrite from the States of Guernsey and Tourism Management Board, and essential backing from Guernsey Ports. Thanks to this combined support, the event remains free for all islanders to enjoy.
Natalie added: “An event of this scale isn’t pulled together in a couple of months, it’s the result of a year-long process of planning, preparation and coordination. To make it happen, we’re now fundraising for 2026 and we aim to raise £65,000–£70,000. Every contribution no matter the size makes a difference.”
