Airborne Pyrotechnics are set to return to the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight! The display team will take to the skies over Ayr shorefront on both Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September.
Their performances will be accompanied by a very special soundtrack this year - a newly discovered piece of music by world-renowned film composer, the late James Horner. Recorded by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), the composition, titled Skyward Spirit, will make its world premiere during the Friday evening pyrotechnics display.
Airborne Pyrotechnics - a father and son team - have been a staple at the airshow, putting on unforgettable performances each year since 2023. We’re excited to have them back again this year to showcase two unique displays on the Friday evening and Saturday afternoon.
For their twilight performance, the team will light up the skies over South Ayrshire in their aerobatic aircraft equipped with LEDs and pyrotechnics on the wing tips, making for a visually stunning routine.
For their afternoon performance, Airborne Pyrotechnics will take flight again in their lightweight aircraft – this time swapping out the pyro for coloured smoke to paint patterns across the skies.
The RSNO will also be in attendance with their Brass Quintet performing on the Low Green on both days of the event while members of the RSNO’s Learning and Engagement team will give attendees the chance to try orchestral instruments in their Festival Village marquee.
Councillor Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “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, South Ayrshire Council's Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, said: “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.”
Councillor Clark, whose portfolio includes cultural services and tourism continued, “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, South Ayrshire Council’s Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, said: “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.”
Les Garside-Beattie OBE, Flying Display Director for the International Ayr Show - Festival of Flight, said: “I’ve worked with the team at a number of events over a number of years. Each time, they have provided stunning displays that have always proved to be a crowd pleaser for every audience, and I'm delighted that they are returning to join us again Ayr.”
Gavin Davey, Area Director (Scotland, Northern Ireland and North East England) at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "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!"
Keep an eye on our social media channels and https://destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk/ayrshow/ to stay up to date with flying display announcements for the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September 2026. You can also find out more information about the family friendly attractions and delicious food and drink on offer in our Festival Village on the Low Green.
The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is the official charity partner for the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight. It is the RAF’s longest-standing charity for serving and former RAF personnel and their families. Find out more about the valuable services they offer on their website - https://www.rafbf.org/