An estimated 1,000 boaters in a fleet of 200 boats gathered off the County Wicklow coast this afternoon for a spectacular edition of the Bray Air Show.
A selection of pleasure craft from small fishing boats and RIBs right up to to 60–foot yachts were part of the combined armada that were treated to some of the best views for over an hour of spectacular aerial displays at the annual weekend event.
Visiting aircraft gave some heart–stopping displays for shoreside crowds of up to 90,000 on Bray Promenade but the best of all was dished up to those afloat with dizzying displays directly over boaters off Bray Head.
Ringside seat – boaters got great views off the Bray coast
Headlining today was an F-18 jet from the Spanish air force demonstrating the very best of aerobatic skill and performance. The Royal Jordanian Falcons also wowed the crowd flying Extra-300 L aerobatic aircraft. A little more sedate but equally special were displays of a 74–year old Catalina Flying Boat and a beautiful vintage Aer Lingus DC-3 aircraft resplendent in 1940s livery. There was plenty of other Irish talent on display with Eddie Goggins, aka ‘The Flying Dentist’, the Irish Air Corps and the Irish Historic Flight Foundation flying Stearman and Chipmunk aircraft. The Irish Coast Guard also demonstrated a safe water rescue. A fitting tribute was paid to the courageous crew of the R116 who tragically lost their lives earlier this year.
Performances by international acts included the ‘Swedish Air Force Historic Flight’ team flying Viggen jets, a British Spitfire and a Seafire and a MiG aircraft as well as a pair of ‘Vampires’ representing Norway.
A Celtic jet team from Brittany in France, ‘Patrouille Tranchant’, flying four Fouga jets were one of the highlights following their magnificent fly-over above Croke Park and U2’s homecoming gig last night.
As well as spectacular scenes in the air at the Bray Air Display there was plenty of fun to be had on ‘terra firma’. On the ground family-fun activity included a food & craft village, a fun fair and live music.
In a unique mixed gathering of both power and sailing craft, families afloat enjoyed a sunshine–filled afternoon at what is now one of Europe's top shows. Above the Celtic jet team from Brittany in France, ‘Patrouille Tranchant’, flying four Fouga jets
