The NI International Airshow sponsored by RSA NI will welcome back a firm favourite to Portrush on the 8th and 9th September.
Following a three year absence, The Blades Aerobatic Team, will bring their thrilling display to the free seaside event for both days. The team is made up of former Red Arrows pilots and the speed and precision of their carbon fibre stunt planes always guarantees a knockout display. The Blades have appeared many times on TV( The Apprentice, Ant and Dec, British Grand Prix) and this week are working with Blue Peter.
These former “Reds” will be joined by current RAF pilots from The Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon, Tucano, Hawk jet, King Air and Sea King helicopter. With 30 displays each day Portrush has the biggest airshow in Ireland and once again will have no admission fee.
The Mayor of Coleraine, Councillor Sam Cole said, “It is wonderful news that The Blades have accepted our invitation to return to Portrush. Their displays are always memorable and it will be interesting to compare their routines to the crop of current RAF pilots. The 8th and 9th is set to be a bumper weekend for the North Coast”.
Jack McIlduff , Managing Director, RSA NI said “2012 is proving to be a significant year for Northern Ireland and RSA NI Insurance is thrilled to be involved with the Airshow, which is unquestionably one of the most prestigious events in the calendar”.
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board has also confirmed financial support to the event as part of their Our Time, Our Place initiative.
As usual up to 100,000 spectators from all over the country are expected to attend the family event which, in addition to a comprehensive line-up in the air, will feature a non-stop programme of arena shows, family entertainment, sea manoeuvres and rescues, exhibitions, competitions, give-aways and the large trade village.
Organisers have added an evening concert on Saturday 8th September featuring James Huish and his Michael Bublé Band along with the first dusk pyrotechnic air display in Ireland. Tickets are available on 028 7034 4723.
The Airshow opens at 11am each day with air displays from 12noon-5.30pm. Details and pictures of the aircraft can be found on niinternationalairshow.co.uk or on Facebook (PortrushAirshow) and Twitter (PortrushAirshow) or for general Council information, www.colerainebc.gov.uk