The skies above Bray, County Wicklow, roared to life yesterday as the Bray Air Display, Ireland’s largest free aviation event, captivated thousands along the picturesque seafront. An estimated 40,000 spectators watched the event, which featured 15 aerial acts with 35 aircraft.
This annual spectacle, a cornerstone of the town’s Summerfest, delivered an exhilarating showcase of aerobatic prowess and aviation innovation, drawing families, enthusiasts, and visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
The event kicked off at noon with a vibrant array of ground activities, including the ever-popular Seafront Funfair, which thrilled attendees with rides and attractions until 10 PM. The Food and Craft Village offered a delightful range of culinary treats and artisan goods, while the Irish Defence Forces’ static display provided an up-close look at military equipment, sparking interest among aspiring recruits and curious spectators.
A new highlight this year was the “Future of Flight” Tech Zone, a collaboration with the Dublin Drone Innovation Partnership, featuring live drone demonstrations and interactive exhibits that engaged audiences with the evolving role of unmanned aviation. The Model Aeronautics Council of Ireland also showcased an impressive collection of model aircraft, adding to the festival’s appeal.
At 3 PM, the main event took flight, with a breathtaking line-up of aerial performances. The Aer Lingus Airbus A321XLR made a show-stopping appearance, showcasing next-generation aviation technology. The AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers delivered heart-pounding stunts, with daredevils performing atop flying biplanes, while the Black Knights Parachute Team executed precision descents onto Bray’s beach.
Solo aerobatics was performed by Eddie Goggins, known as “The Flying Dentist,” and the Garda Air Support Unit demonstrated its critical role in aerial policing. The diverse roster, featuring both modern and vintage aircraft, underscored the event’s reputation as a premier showcase of international and Irish aviation talent.
For those seeking a unique perspective, Executive Helicopters offered pleasure flights over Bray Head, providing stunning views of the coastline for €50 for adults and €35 for children under 12. These flights, operating from 11 AM to 7 PM (pausing during the main display), were a popular draw, requiring no advance booking.
Organisers emphasised safety and accessibility, with ample facilities for disabled visitors, including parking and accessible toilets, though standard parking fees applied. A complimentary shuttle bus serviced the South Event Car Park at Ardmore Rovers for those arriving from the south, ensuring smooth access to the seafront.
Logistical planning was critical, with temporary road closures on Strand Road, Albert Avenue, and others from early Saturday morning to facilitate safe pedestrian flow and emergency access. Motorists were required to pre-book parking online, with spaces guaranteed only for those arriving before 2 PM. Public transport was the preferred mode of travel, with Iarnród Éireann operating additional DART services from Dublin’s Connolly Station and a shuttle bus from the Luas Green Line’s Brides Glen stop, priced at €6.50 for a return ticket. Visitors were advised to arrive early to avoid delays, with the event’s traffic management plan, supported by An Garda Síochána and Wicklow County Council, ensuring a smooth experience.
The Bray Air Display, managed by the Bray Summerfest Committee, continues to be a vital part of the #SummerInBray campaign, contributing an estimated €3.5m to the local economy. Sé Pardy, Flight Display Director, hailed the event as a celebration of aviation’s past and future, inspiring the next generation of enthusiasts. With clear skies forecast and a record crowd expected, the 2025 Bray Air Display reaffirmed its status as a cherished summer tradition, blending skill, spectacle, and seaside charm.
