### Crowds Brave Weather for Dazzling Start to Wales Airshow 2025 in Swansea
Swansea’s iconic waterfront was once again transformed into a hub of excitement on Saturday as thousands gathered for the opening day of the Wales Airshow 2025. Despite forecasts predicting changeable conditions and the reality of rain showers sweeping across the bay, attendees remained in high spirits as they awaited the return of one of Wales’ most celebrated summer events.
The anticipated air displays faced early setbacks when adverse weather led organisers to significantly alter the day’s programme. Originally, 15 aerial performances had been scheduled to enthral the crowd throughout the day. However, only three were ultimately able to take to the skies, with all flights postponed until the late afternoon in hopes the weather would clear.
Team Raven was first to brave the overcast Swansea sky at 4.25pm, skilfully launching the much-delayed proceedings. Not long after, the crowd was treated to the roar of a Typhoon jet—always a crowd-pleaser with its breathtaking noise and prowess—making its appearance around 4.40pm. As the clouds began to thin, the Red Arrows, world-renowned for their synchronised aerobatics, finally delivered a spectacular performance at 5pm, lifting spirits and earning huge cheers from fans.
While the weather may have pared back the official programme, the resilient audience seemed undeterred. Children in bright raincoats and bucket hats enjoyed themselves on the beach, with many creating their own makeshift ‘airshows’ with toy planes in the sand. Families huddled beneath umbrellas and shared smiles, determined not to let the drizzle dampen their day out.
The Airshow also provided opportunities for inspiration, with many young spectators seen donning pilot hats or dreaming aloud of future careers in aviation. The event, in its usual style, managed to capture moments of joy and fascination among the youngest attendees, some of whom posed for photos pretending to be pilots or even motorcycle riders, imagining their own high-speed adventures.
Community spirit was evident throughout the day, as people braved blustery winds and intermittent downpours. Some in the crowd came well-prepared with large, sturdy umbrellas and rain gear, while others made do with smaller brollies or simply embraced the weather as part of the adventure. The unpredictable Welsh climate failed to overshadow the sense of togetherness and anticipation in the air.
Entertainment on the ground complemented the aerial displays, and visitors were serenaded by cadets playing brass instruments, adding a lively soundtrack to the day. The popular Rock Choir stopped by for a sing-a-long, boosting morale and giving families and friends a chance to join in the festivities while waiting for the skies to clear.
Photographic highlights from the day captured not just the flying displays but also the character and resilience of the Swansea crowd. Images showed youngsters beaming despite the rain, families enjoying time together, and even a few stray seagulls seemingly keen to join the aerial show. One particularly memorable moment came when a young fan, clearly inspired by the Red Arrows, pretended to soar like a plane along the wind-swept promenade.
Organisers are optimistic for more flying and a packed schedule on day two, provided the Welsh weather turns kinder. For many, day one served as a reminder of the community’s spirit, the crowd’s adaptability, and the enduring appeal of the Wales Airshow, even in the face of disruption.
As Swansea looks forward to a second day of aerial feats, those who braved the elements on Saturday will no doubt count themselves lucky to have experienced the magic and wonder of this annual spectacle, whatever the weather brought.