Hotly anticipated Kent airshow returning for first time in decade has dates and displays announced

New details have been announced for a hotly anticipated airshow heading to Manston Airport next year. Marking the first aviation event to be held at the site in over 10 years, Manston International Airshow will take to the Kent skies on Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17 2025.

Running as a non-profit event to raise money for charity, visitors can expect two action-packed days filled with spellbinding aerial performances, with organisers having now confirmed some of the participants. Bill Giles, known in Kent as the organiser behind the successful Weald of Kent Steam and Country Show, expressed that the family-friendly show will also have an educational focus.

The Thanet airport, now owned by RiverOak Strategic Partners, will host spectacular vehicles both in the air and on the ground, including First World War replica aircraft, World War II fighters, Cold War jets and modern planes. Also commemorating the 85th anniversary of The Battle of Britain, as well as the 80th anniversary of VR Day and VJ Day, classic warbirds such as the iconic Supermarine Spitfire will be in attendance.

READ MORE: The cheapest places to buy petrol and diesel in Kent

READ MORE: Margate Summer Series 2025 line-up confirmed so far as more artists announced

The Belgium-based Bronco Demo Team featuring the North American OV-10 Bronco has also been announced as one of the event’s performers. Bill said: "It has been a long-held ambition to bring a large-scale airshow back to Kent with something for enthusiasts of all ages, from classic aircraft to high energy aerobatics.

“But I also want it to help raise awareness of and funds for a number of charities which are close to my heart and that of the aviation community. My aim is for profits from the event to go to local and partner charities, and we will be announcing these in due course."

On the ground, attendees can expect live arenas exploring 100 years of aviation and transport history, including military vehicles and classic cars. These will be joined by food concession stands, live music and funfair attractions for all to enjoy.

Bill added: “As an experienced event organiser, I know the critical importance of logistical planning. Traffic management discussions have already begun to ensure that travel and parking at the show is as seamless and smooth as possible.

“We will be working with all relevant parties to create accessible public transport solutions, and we are also consulting with major event and airshow experts regarding safety and security." The official flight programme is due to be announced next spring and full ticket details are to be confirmed soon.

Keen enthusiasts are urged to follow the Manston International Airshow website for further updates on the event. General Manager for RSP Manston, Gary Blake, said: "We are delighted to be able to host this major event at Manston, which celebrates its long and important history.

"We look forward to working with Bill and the team to help make the airshow a great success for everyone." Manston airport closed in 2014 and attempts to re-open the site in the decade that has followed have proven to be divisive.

It seems Manston will finally be brought back to life in the near future however, as progressing plans would see the site revived as a new ‘state of the art freight hub’. Find out more on these plans and the full fascinating history of Manston Airport here.