Portrush international air show postponed until 2028

Philip Anderson organiser of Portush air show

Portrush International Air Show, held in 2024 after a five-year break, has been postponed until 2028.

Causeway Coast and Glens Council voted to delay the event to avoid clashes with Armed Forces Day and the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence. The 2024 event cost around £400,000, with all major council events under review in 2028.

The decision awaits ratification at the full council meeting next month for logistical planning. Businesses like boat tours in Portrush report losses from missing the September tourist boost.

Philip Anderson shared: “We are very mindful that there will be some disappointment out there, but I want to stress that this event is not cancelled – what we are essentially trying to do is give our council events team more time to ensure they can put on a bigger and better event compared to the one last year. What we certainly didn’t want to do is shoehorn the air show into an already packed calendar of events. Events like the air show take a long time to plan and organise, and by giving that bit of extra time, we can ensure that it meets and exceeds people’s expectations. We are also mindful that there will be huge events like Armed Forces Day next year, and we are hopeful that aviation fans will be able to enjoy aerial displays as part of those celebrations as well.”