Taking place from 13–16 August 2026, Airbourne is one of the UK’s biggest free seaside airshows and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

Staying at the The Lansdowne Hotel places visitors in one of the best possible locations for the event. The hotel sits directly opposite the Western Lawns on Eastbourne seafront, right in the heart of the main Airbourne display area.   From the hotel entrance to the main viewing areas is only around a 2–5 minute walk, making it ideal for visitors wanting easy access to the displays, evening entertainment and food stalls along the promenade.

Airbourne combines thrilling aviation displays with the atmosphere of a traditional British seaside festival. Across the four-day event, visitors can expect flying displays from famous RAF teams, vintage warbirds and modern aerobatic performers. Early confirmed appearances for 2026 include the RAF Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Wingwalkers and the RAF Tutor Display Team.   The display line stretches for miles along the coastline, meaning there are excellent viewing spots from the pier to Holywell.

One of the highlights of staying at the The Lansdowne Hotel is that you can avoid the heavy crowds and transport queues often associated with large events. Guests can simply walk from their room straight onto the seafront. The hotel itself enjoys uninterrupted sea views and is only about a 10-minute walk from Eastbourne Pier and approximately 15 minutes on foot from the town centre and railway station.

Away from the flying displays, Airbourne also offers live music, military exhibitions, trade stands and family entertainment throughout the day and evening. The atmosphere along the promenade is lively and festive, with cafés, pubs and restaurants packed with visitors enjoying the sunshine and sea air. Many people spend the day moving between the beach, the lawns and the pier while listening to the event commentary broadcast across the seafront.

Eastbourne itself adds to the appeal of the event. The elegant Victorian seafront, traditional pier and views towards Beachy Head provide a dramatic backdrop for the aircraft displays. Visitors often combine Airbourne with walks along the promenade or trips into the nearby South Downs National Park.

For aviation enthusiasts, photographers or families looking for a memorable summer event by the sea, Airbourne 2026 promises four days of spectacular entertainment. With the The Lansdowne Hotel positioned directly beside the main event area, visitors are perfectly placed to enjoy one of Eastbourne’s most exciting annual attractions.