Scottish Airshow bids to raise spectator numbers

SCOTTISH Airshow organisers today revealed they hoped to significantly increase spectator numbers by putting on bigger displays at this year’s events in Ayr and Prestwick Airport.

They have set a target of 95,000 people compared to the 60,000 drawn to the re-launch of the show last year after a 22-year gap. Picture: TSPL

They have set a target of 95,000 people compared to the 60,000 drawn to the re-launch of the show last year after a 22-year gap.

The 5-6 September spectacular will again feature an aerial display from Low Green in Ayr, with a static display of aircraft at the airport the next day.

FOLLOW US

Twitter | Facebook | Google+

Subscribe to our DAILY NEWSLETTER (requires registration)

SCOTSMAN TABLET AND MOBILE APPS

iPhone | iPad | Android | Kindle

Details will be announced next month.

Organisers want to boost attendance at the aerial display by 50 per cent from 50,000 to 75,000, and double numbers at the airport from 10,000 to 20,000.

They said a funding deal with South Ayrshire Council had enabled the expansion.

Chairman Bob Alexander said: “The breakthrough in this is that we have been guaranteed a level of funding which will allow us to increase the size and quality of the whole event in 2015.

“There are some very big companies who recognise the potential of the Scottish Airshow and are looking to assist us in our plan to make this the biggest outdoor event in Scotland and one of Britain’s best aviation festivals.”

South Ayrshire Council leader Bill McIntosh said: “I am particularly pleased we are looking forward to increased numbers of people attending.”

Last year’s display included a Lancaster, Hurricane and Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The original Scottish International Air Show ran from 1967 to 1992, attracting up to 100,000 spectators. It included a prototype Concorde in 1972.