**Wales Airshow Start Pushed Back as Rain Clouds Gather Over Swansea**
The highly-anticipated Wales Airshow, a hallmark of Swansea’s annual events calendar, has faced a setback this weekend, with organisers having to delay proceedings due to persistent bad weather. The event, which routinely welcomes crowds in excess of 200,000, is a key summer attraction for both locals and visitors from further afield, offering spectacular aerial displays and a vibrant assortment of ground-based entertainment.
This year’s airshow was due to kick off with a packed timetable of flying displays, including crowd favourites such as the RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and other celebrated aerobatic teams. However, poor weather conditions in the region prompted event officials to issue a statement on Saturday, announcing a revised start time for the airborne performances.
Organisers said: “Whilst the weather is improving, the start of our air displays has been delayed and we now hope to be starting from 2.30pm today.” They reassured attendees that ground attractions would remain open throughout the day, encouraging visitors to make the most of trade stands, food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities while keeping an eye out for further updates.
The interruption inevitably casts uncertainty over the scheduled running order, particularly for aircraft set to take to the skies ahead of the new 2.30pm slot. Originally, acts such as The Starlings, the Rolls Royce Spitfire, and the Firebirds were expected to perform in the early afternoon. At the time of writing, organisers had not clarified whether these displays would be rescheduled or cancelled entirely—a disappointment for aviation enthusiasts eager to see these rare aircraft in action.
The highlight of the weekend, as always, is the much-loved Red Arrows performance, which traditionally headlines the show. Known for their stunning Diamond Nine formations and pinpoint flying, the Red Arrows team includes both pilots and support crews with extensive frontline experience. Their display has become a staple of the Swansea skyline, drawing fans from all over Wales and further afield.
Despite weather disruptions, the Red Arrows remain on the schedule for a 5pm display, with their route taking them from Exeter airport up through various Welsh towns. Even those unable to reach Swansea in person are encouraged to look skyward, as the team’s flight path will pass over communities across the region—their trademark roar and colourful trails offering a brief yet thrilling spectacle.
For those attending in person, the Wales Airshow is as much about events on the ground as what happens overhead. The sprawling displays along the seafront feature everything from hands-on science exhibits to local crafts, live music, and an impressive array of food and drink. With challenging weather conditions, many are making the most of these offerings as they wait for the skies to clear.
Swansea Council and show organisers have thanked attendees for their patience and understanding, highlighting the unpredictability that often comes with staging major outdoor events. Safety remains a paramount concern for both participants and visitors, with adverse weather posing risks to low-flying aircraft and larger crowd gatherings alike.
Looking ahead, those planning to visit the airshow over the weekend are advised to keep an eye on official communications and social media channels for the latest updates regarding the schedule. In true British fashion, most remain hopeful that the weather will soon improve, allowing the flying displays to go ahead as planned and ensuring another memorable chapter in the airshow’s proud history.
The Wales Airshow continues to be a testament to the city’s ability to unite the community and showcase both local and national talent—even when the weather refuses to play ball. With the ground attractions running and a cautiously optimistic forecast for the afternoon, many are still determined to soak up the unique festival atmosphere, rain or shine.