For immediate release                                                                                         

25th November 2024

Plans for Manston International Airshow 2025 unveiled

Not-for-profit eventwill raise awareness and funds for charity
 

The organisers of the Manston International Airshow have today (25th November 2024) unveiled plans for a major new airshow on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th August 2025 at Manston Airport which will be run as a not-for-profit event to raise funds for charity.

Bill Giles, who is well known in Kent as the organiser of the long-running and successful Weald of Kent Steam and Country Show, confirmed that the historic airport site, owned by RiverOak Strategic Partners (RiverOak), will play host to a dynamic two-day programme of displays, both in the air and on the ground.

Giles also confirmed that the Airshow will have an educational focus and will raise both awareness and money for a number of national and local charities. Details of charity partners will be announced in due course, while the Official Flight Programme will be announced in the Spring when the UK Armed Forces air display's 2025 schedule is confirmed.

The family-friendly event will celebrate aviation throughout Manston's history as an airfield, from its early development during World War One, through its RAF and Cold War years to its more recent commercial and recreational use. 

The developing line-up will feature both flying and static aircraft, from First World War replica aircraft, trainers and WW2 fighters to Cold War and modern jets.  Classic warbirds, such as the much-loved Spitfire, will be in evidence, as the event also commemorates the 85th anniversary of The Battle of Britain and marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day. 

Visitors can also expect to see a range of civilian display teams such as the Bronco Demo Team and flying circus displays, harking back to the Golden Age of Aviation from the 1920s and ‘30s.
 

 

 

The ground-based element of the show will also provide something memorable and educational, with live arenas showcasing thrilling displays covering over 100 years of aviation and transport history. Attractions will include military vehicles and classic cars, along with a variety of exhibitors and food concessions, live music, a funfair and community stalls.

The two on-site museums - The RAF Manston History Museum and The Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum - will be open all weekend with special activities during the Show.

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."

Airshow organiser Bill Giles 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."
 

 

Commenting on logistical arrangements for the event, he continued:

"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 Manston International Airshow website is now live at:www.manstoninternationalairshow.comto provide regular updates on plans, alongside the show'sFacebook page.

Local businesses who would like to participate in the show as exhibitors and potential sponsorship partners should visit the website to apply.

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*Please use hyperlinks below the photos to download the original images for publication*
 
For more information, please contact one of the following:-

Alison Miles (general media)
M: 07900 691116

or

Samantha Williams (aviation & general media)
M: 07972 888174

Manston International Air Show Press Office
E:Media@manstoninternationalairshow.com

Notes to Editors:

About Bill Giles
Bill Giles is well known as the founder and organiser of the Weald of Kent Steam and Country Show which he has run successfully for the last 11years. With a passion for aviation and airshows, dating back to the heady days of watching the likes of Brian Lecomber, Phil Meeson and the Royal Jordanian Falcons, Bill became a commercial and display pilot flying the iconic Pitts Special. He was also team manager for the Honda Dream Team in the 2000s.

About RiverOak Strategic Partners
RiverOak Strategic Partners Limited (RiverOak), is a UK-registered company which has acquired all rights and interests and assumed financial and operational responsibility for the Development Consent Order in respect of Manston Airport and the anticipated reopening and operation of the airport. RiverOak is fully resourced and funded to accommodate all costs arising from the Development Consent Order application to acquire and reopen Manston as a fully operational airport.