A look back at an eventful weekend at the 2024 NI International Air Show
Mon, September 09, 2024
Thousands of people attended the 2024 NI International Airshow for 2 days of aerial displays and ground activities in Portrush.
The event showcased aircraft displays, and those who attended were treated to the RAF Typhoon, a Vampire, the American OV-10 Bronco and a brief but stunning flyby by the iconic Lancaster. Other displays included the Jet Pitts, the Tutor, AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers, the Starlings, the Calidus Autogyro and the Airbourne Pyrotechnics.
The Ulster Aviation Society displayed at Ballyreagh with a great selection of planes that gave the opportunity for experiencing what it is like to climb aboard a piece of aviation history. The Ulster Gliding Club were also at Ballyreagh and provided the opportunity to sit in a real glider. For the first time at the NI International Airshow, a rocket was launched by Ulster Rocketry on West Bay Beach Saturday afternoon.
Ballyreagh also featured the return of the STEM Village which included interactive, exhibits, the education sector and companies keen to engage with the public on future employment opportunities. These included the air show sponsors Go Succeed, Thales and Spirit Aerosystems.
The weather on Saturday could not have been better, with clear and sunny skies for the Jet Pitts acrobatic displays, while the team from AeroSuperBatics proved they have a head for heights, wowing the spectators with their wing walking displays.
The Saturday evening closed with flying pyrotechnics over West Bay prior to the fireworks display at Ramore Head and all in attendance enjoyed this against the backdrop of this year’s music stage.
Despite the inclement weather on Sunday which impacted the timing of the flying schedule, the public were still able to enjoy all the ground activities including the Ministry of Defence village, music stage, dance demonstrations, Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market and trade stalls. The final day also included a Service of Remembrance from the Royal British Legion at Ballyreagh.
Deputy Mayor, Councillor Tanya Stirling who attended the event said: "I was thrilled to see so many people come out to enjoy the long-awaited return of the NI International Airshow. With high-flying entertainment in the skies above and a packed programme of activities on the ground, this was a wonderful event for all the family.
"Thank you to the many spectators who turned out as well as all those involved in putting together and supporting this fantastic event."
