Festival of Flight moved to earlier date for Red Arrows

Festival of Flight moved to earlier date for Red Arrows

3 April 2019

THE Red Arrows will once again be headlining this year’s Festival of Flight in Newcastle which is taking place earlier than usual.

The spectacular aerobatic display is traditionally held on the first weekend in August but has been brought forward to June 22 as the Red Arrows display team is embarking upon its largest ever tour to North America in late summer and September, with appearances in the United States and Canada pencilled in.

The flagship Festival of Flight tourism event regularly attracts over 100,000 visitors to Newcastle and generates tens of thousands of pounds for the local economy.

There was major disappointment last summer when poor weather left organisers with no choice but to reluctantly cancel the event.

Funding of £120,000 is being provided by Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Enterprise, Regeneration and Tourism Committee for this year’s festival with hopes that it will be graced by fine summer weather.

Council chairman Mark Murnin said the organisation was delighted the Red Arrows will be taking part in this summer’s of Festival of Flight. 

“The event is a thrilling annual highlight of our district’s events calendar and one that has a significant impact on tourism and our local economy,” he continued.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to showcase all that we have to offer by providing an authentic and enjoyable visitor experience for everyone to enjoy.”

Organisers have confirmed that this year’s festival will comprise a magnificent airborne display, complemented by events for the family, including an aviation centre and a food village. 

• The Festival of Flight is the second of the local council’s three Giant Adventures events for the tourist season. Full details are available at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/GiantAdventures.