The Red Arrows are confirmed to return to Southport Air Show in August
The Red Arrows will fly with seven aircraft rather than nine for most displays in future, as the fleet transitions “to a future aircraft type”. The decision to change formation size, taken by the Chief of the Air Staff, is to enable forward planning regarding engineering resources and fleet viability.
Despite the changes, the Red Arrows will still fly in their nine aircraft formation for The King’s Birthday Flypast and the 4th of July 250-year anniversary commemorations in the US this year.
An RAF spokesperson said: “The Red Arrows are the pride of the nation, known globally for their world-class precision, speed, and teamwork.“The Red Arrows will fly in a nine-aircraft formation for HM The King’s Birthday Flypast and the 4th of July 250 Commemorations in the USA this year.
“For other displays, they will operate with seven aircraft, continuing to deliver high-quality, engaging displays at air shows and events across the UK, mainland Europe and further afield.
“This will support the sustainable management of the Hawk T1 fleet and prepare the team for a transition to a future aircraft type.”
The display team will be seen at air shows and events across the UK, mainland Europe and further afield from May to October this year.
The Red Arrows are set to return to Southport Air Show after an absence last year. The event returns to the Southport seafront from August 29 to 30 with tickets available online.
Explaining why the Red Arrows were missing, a RAF spokesperson previously told the ECHO: “The allocation of RAF display assets for public events in the UK during the display season is controlled by the RAF Air Events Team who match available assets with Defence priorities in the UK and overseas.
“In late August 2025 RAFAT, the Red Arrows have been tasked to complete several overseas Air Shows, contributing to Defence and the UK Government’s Global agenda, therefore, they will not be in a position to support events in the UK at that time.
“However, Defence has a number of other aircraft and display teams which will appear at major UK events that occur in this period, of note 4 of our 5 display teams will be appearing at Southport.”
Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Employment Cllr Paulette Lappin said he is “absolutely delighted to welcome the Red Arrows back to Southport Air Show in 2026”.
He added: “It’s no secret that they are one of the most iconic display teams in the world and their performances always create a truly special atmosphere along our coastline.
“We have been working hard in the background for many months to get the Red Arrows and other stunning RAF aircraft to appear.
“Southport Air Show is a major highlight in Sefton’s events calendar, bringing families, aviation enthusiasts and visitors together for a brilliant weekend by the sea.
“As well as the spectacular displays in the skies, there will be plenty happening on the ground too, making it a fantastic day out for people of all ages.”
