Bournemouth Air Festival - August 20-23

Plans for the 2009 Bournemouth Air Festival were unveiled this afternoon. Up to one million people are expected to cram the town for four days spectacular in August.

The line-up includes three appearances over three days by the Red Arrows, alongside the RAF Falcons, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight of the Lancaster, Hurricane, and Spitfire, and the Typhoon Eurofighter.

The festival, sponsored again by More Bus, is also set to provide a massive economic boost and feelgood factor for the town in a year that is likely to see the recession deepen.

Last year’s event generated £25m for the town according to council chiefs.

And with more people expected to holiday in the UK this summer, the festival maybe even more of a draw in 2009.

It takes place from Thursday to Sunday, August 20-23.

The Red Arrows will perform on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Director of Tourism, Mark Smith, said the objective last year had been to establish an event that would appeal to locals and attract visitors from across the UK.

“This year our aims are to build the evening entertainment programme, boost the already brilliant day displays and cement our reputation as the leading free air event in the country,” he said.

Bournemouth will be the focal point for the Fly Navy 100 Naval celebrations and there will be two ships featuring in the programme – the RFA Mounts Bay and minesweeper HMS Cattistock, as well demonstrations from Royal Marines Commando Display Team.

Other flying attractions already booked are the locally based Yakovlev Aerobatic Team and the helicopters of the Blades.

Nighttime festivities will include a hot air balloon show, fireworks, and street entertainment.

Full Story at Daily Echo