'Help us keep people and pilots safe' - Blackpool Airport issues update ahead of 2026 Air Show this weekend

Blackpool Airport has urged spectators not to feed seagulls or leave behind food waste as thousands of visitors prepare to descend on the resort for this weekend's Blackpool Air Show.

The airport has issued the appeal ahead of the free annual event, warning that reducing food sources near the coastline will help prevent gulls gathering close to the airport and lower the risk of bird strikes during flying displays.

In a message to visitors, Blackpool Airport said: "We're looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors for a fantastic weekend of aviation and entertainment. For those watching from the sand dunes, we kindly ask that you help us support safe flying operations by not feeding the seagulls and taking any food waste or rubbish away with you."

The airport added that, while gulls are a natural part of the Fylde coast, limiting access to food helps improve safety for aircraft taking part in the show. "Reducing food sources helps prevent them gathering near the airport and lowers the risk of bird strikes during the event,” it said. “Thank you for helping us keep the air show safe for pilots, performers and spectators alike."

Thousands of people are expected to line Blackpool Promenade across the weekend to watch the action-packed flying programme, with aviation enthusiasts travelling from across the country.

Although the Red Arrows will not appear this year as they undertake a 13-date tour of North America, organisers have assembled a packed line-up featuring military, historic and aerobatic aircraft.

Among the headline attractions will be the RAF Typhoon Display Team, showcasing one of the world's most advanced fighter jets capable of speeds exceeding 1,400mph. The iconic MiG-17 fighter jet will make its English display debut over Blackpool, while the P-47 Thunderbolt, P-51 Mustang and Suffolk Spitfire will all appear at the resort for the first time.

Saturday's programme will include the British Army's elite Red Devils parachute display team, while the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will return with its Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft.

Visitors can also enjoy displays from the Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers, Team Raven, Hawk, Harvard, Yaks, Calidus Autogyro, Muscle Pitts and XtremeAir.

Away from the skies, the Air Show Village on the Tower Festival Headland will feature stalls, attractions and food concessions throughout the weekend, while Blackpool Transport has confirmed additional travel arrangements to help residents and visitors get to and from the event.