Saturday, 1 August 2026 once again proved why the Bray Air Display remains one of Ireland’s most spectacular aviation events.
As Ireland’s largest free air show, the Bray Air Display welcomed tens of thousands of spectators to the Wicklow coastline for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating aviation history, modern technology and the incredible people who work across Ireland’s aviation industry.
ASG was delighted to once again play its part in supporting the safe and efficient delivery of this world-class event. Working alongside the organisers and aviation stakeholders, we are proud to contribute behind the scenes to an event that continues to inspire future pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, dispatchers and aviation professionals.
A Celebration of Irish Aviation
The 2026 programme successfully bridged more than 90 years of aviation history, from beautifully restored historic aircraft to the latest generation of commercial airliners and military capability.
Visitors were treated to an outstanding line-up featuring 14 incredible flying displays, including:
- Aer Lingus Airbus A321XLR – the next-generation long-range Airbus that is redefining narrow-body operations and opening exciting new route possibilities.
- AeroSuperBatics Wingwalkers – breathtaking aerial choreography combining precision flying with fearless wing-walking.
- Black Knights Parachute Team – spectacular precision parachuting from the Irish Army’s renowned display team.
- Irish Coast Guard – featuring both the AW189 Search and Rescue helicopter and Beechcraft King Air B200, demonstrating the vital capabilities that protect lives around Ireland’s coastline.
- Emerald Airlines – showcasing the professionalism of Ireland’s regional airline.
- Garda Air Support Unit – demonstrating the aircraft that provide critical airborne policing and surveillance across the country.
- Iolar (EI-ABI) – Aer Lingus’ oldest surviving aircraft returning to the skies as part of the airline’s 90th anniversary celebrations.
- Irish Air Corps – delivering a dynamic military display highlighting the professionalism and capability of Ireland’s military aviators.
- P-51 Mustang “Marinell” – one of the world’s most iconic Second World War fighters thrilling spectators with its unmistakable Merlin engine.
- National Flight Centre Pilot Academy – showcasing the next generation of IFR training aircraft and future pilot development.
- Richard Goodwin – demonstrating extraordinary precision muscle biplane aerobatics.
- Stellaer 212 PC-12 NGX – highlighting the versatility of one of the world’s most capable single-engine turbine aircraft.
- Strikemaster Jet – delivering the unmistakable sound and performance of classic military jet aviation.
- Team Raven – seven Van’s RV-8 aircraft performing breathtaking close-formation aerobatics.
Offshore, LÉ James Joyce of the Irish Naval Service provided an impressive maritime backdrop to the day’s flying programme.
A Unique Formation Celebrating Irish Aviation
One of the defining moments of the 2026 display was a truly iconic formation celebrating Irish aviation.
For the first time, spectators witnessed an extraordinary flypast featuring Aer Lingus’ state-of-the-art Airbus A321XLR flying in formation with the Irish Air Corps Silver Swallows display team.
The formation perfectly symbolised Ireland’s aviation heritage, bringing together the nation’s flag carrier and its military aviators in a powerful tribute to innovation, professionalism and national pride.
It was undoubtedly one of the standout moments of this year’s display.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond the spectacular flying, events such as the Bray Air Display play an important role in encouraging young people to consider careers across aviation.
Many of today’s airline pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, flight dispatchers and aviation professionals can trace their passion for aviation back to attending an air show as children.
At ASG, education sits at the heart of everything we do. Through our EASA Approved ATPL Theory programmes and specialist aviation training, we are privileged to help many of those future aviation professionals begin their own journeys towards rewarding careers in the industry.
The Bray Air Display continues to demonstrate that aviation is about far more than aircraft—it’s about people, teamwork, innovation and inspiring future generations.
Proud to Support Ireland’s Largest Air Show
Behind every successful air display is an enormous team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to ensure the event is delivered safely and efficiently.
ASG is proud to support the Bray Air Display and to play a small part in helping deliver one of Ireland’s most important aviation events.
Congratulations to the organising committee, volunteers, emergency services, participating organisations, display pilots and every individual whose hard work made the 2026 event such a success.
We already look forward to returning next year.
About ASG
ASG is an EASA Approved Training Organisation (ATO) specialising in airline pilot training, ATPL Theory, Flight Operations, aviation consultancy and professional aviation education. We are passionate about supporting the future of aviation by developing the next generation of aviation professionals while contributing to events that promote aviation across Ireland and beyond.
Learn more: www.asg.ie
