Residents and visitors heading to the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight in 2026 can expect a major international appearance after organisers confirmed that a United States Air National Guard C-130J Super Hercules will take part in a special flypast above Ayr shorefront.
The aircraft is scheduled to appear on Saturday, September 5, as part of the show's 2026 programme. The Hercules has appeared at the event in previous years and is now set to return alongside other international aircraft.
What to expect at Ayr shorefront
The C-130J Super Hercules is a military transport aircraft. According to the supplied event information, it can carry up to 128 passengers or transport as much as 22 tonnes of cargo.
Its appearance will add a prominent international element to the Festival of Flight programme, giving spectators on the Ayr shorefront the chance to see the aircraft during the scheduled flypast. The announcement identifies the event as the International Ayr Show, while the supplied report does not provide further details about the full programme, timings or arrangements for spectators.
A long aviation history
The flypast also highlights the long history of the Hercules aircraft. The original Hercules model entered production in 1954, meaning the 2026 appearance is presented as part of more than 70 years of American aviation heritage.
The aircraft's return follows earlier appearances at the show and confirms one of the international aircraft attractions for the 2026 event. Residents should check official event information for any later updates on the wider programme and visitor arrangements.
