Ayr’s shorefront will become the stage for two very different Airborne Pyrotechnics performances when the team returns to the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September 2026.
The father-and-son display team will perform a twilight routine on the Friday evening and an afternoon display on the Saturday. The evening performance will combine aerobatic aircraft fitted with LEDs and pyrotechnics on their wing tips with a world premiere soundtrack: Skyward Spirit, a newly discovered composition by the late, world-renowned film composer James Horner.
The music has been recorded by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), adding a major orchestral element to the airborne pyrotechnics over Ayr. Airborne Pyrotechnics has appeared at the airshow every year since 2023, and organisers say the return will add two distinct displays to this year’s programme.
What visitors can expect in Ayr
The Friday performance is designed as a visually striking twilight show, with the aircraft’s LED equipment and wing-tip pyrotechnics lighting the skies over South Ayrshire. On Saturday afternoon, the team will take to the air again in lightweight aircraft, but will replace the pyrotechnics with coloured smoke to create patterns across the sky.
The RSNO will also be part of the wider event at the Low Green on both days. Its Brass Quintet will perform there, while members of the orchestra’s Learning and Engagement team will invite visitors to try orchestral instruments inside the Festival Village marquee.
The Festival Village will also feature family-friendly attractions and food and drink, according to the event information. The International Ayr Show’s programme of flying displays is still being developed, with further announcements expected through the event’s social media channels and the Destination South Ayrshire website.
Organisers welcome the returning display team
South Ayrshire Council Leader Councillor Brian Connolly said the addition would increase anticipation among aviation enthusiasts and airshow visitors. He also highlighted Airborne Pyrotechnics’ performances over the previous three years and the new music planned for the routine.
“With another impressive act joining the flying display schedule, excitement will no doubt be building among aviation enthusiasts and airshow fans. Airborne Pyrotechnics have delivered fantastic displays over the past three years, and it’s a pleasure to welcome them back once again, this time with some very special music to complement their routine.”
Councillor Alec Clark, the council’s Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, said securing the team for both days was a boost for the programme. He added that the premiere of Skyward Spirit was particularly significant.
“Given the continued popularity of their displays, I’m sure festival-goers will be delighted to see Airborne Pyrotechnics back on the bill. Securing them for both days of the airshow is a fantastic boost to the programme and will help ensure another memorable weekend for visitors and residents alike.”
“It’s particularly exciting that our event has been chosen to debut Skyward Spirit as the soundtrack to the team’s performance.”
Councillor Chris Cullen, the council’s Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, described the airshow as an important event for bringing communities together and promoting the area. He also pointed to the opportunity for visitors to try instruments in the Festival Village.
“The airshow is a key moment in our events calendar, bringing communities together and showcasing everything our area has to offer. The return of Airborne Pyrotechnics adds to the buzz around the festival and helps create an exciting, family-friendly atmosphere. Having the RSNO in the Festival Village gives people a unique opportunity to pick up and try out a new instrument too.”
RAF Benevolent Fund returns as charity partner
The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund will be the official charity partner for the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight for a fourth year. Its stand will be located in the Military Village, where RAF veterans and families can learn about support available for hardship, loneliness and wellbeing challenges.
Gavin Davey, the charity’s Area Director for Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England, said visitors would be able to connect with the organisation and help raise funds for people across Ayrshire who need support.
“While visitors' eyes are drawn to the action in the skies, the RAF Benevolent Fund remains dedicated to supporting members of the RAF family facing hardship, loneliness and wellbeing challenges. In our fourth year as the Ayr Show's Charity Partner, we look forward to connecting with RAF veterans and families who may need our support, raising awareness of the services available, and generating vital funds to help those across Ayrshire who need us most. We invite any RAF veterans to come and see us at our stand in the Military Village – you can’t miss us!”
Further flying display announcements and information about the Festival Village are available through Destination South Ayrshire and the show’s social media channels. More information about the RAF Benevolent Fund is available at rafbf.org.