Monday 28 March saw the ‘Save Airbourne’ fundraising launch event at Devonshire Quarter, giving airshow fans and businesses the chance to meet the teams behind the summer event and find out how they can support the airshow.
Displaying vintage programmes and video presentations from George Bacon Display Commentator and Dave Walton Display Director, the event was a celebration of Airbourne over the years and attendees were able to find out more about plans for this year’s show, including the VIP packages and hospitality services on offer, in addition to meeting representatives from the 2022 Airbourne charities.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s lead member for Tourism and Culture Councillor Margaret Bannister said, “Our first ‘Save Airbourne’ event was a flying success! With over 100 attendees throughout the duration of the event, I’d like to thank everyone that came along, it was a pleasure to meet so many local businesses and Airbourne supporters and we were thrilled to receive thousands of pounds in sponsorships and supporters packages on the night, getting us closer to our income target goal.
I’d also like to extend special thanks to one lovely couple that had travelled over 80 miles in order to attend the event and make a donation. The team behind Airbourne are so appreciative of this gesture and it just goes to show how much our airshow means to fans.
With just a few months to go until Airbourne takes to the skies once again, we hope to host another ‘Save Airbourne’ event soon, with more details to be announced.”
Robert and Elaine Hacker, proud supporters of Eastbourne Airbourne said, “My wife & I travelled from Kent to be part of the recent Airbourne event, which we enjoyed, meeting up again with friends old and new.
“We continue to support Airbourne in tribute to my father, who was 21 Squadron RAF. One of his roles was loading the Lancaster and the Bristol Blenheim with their armoury. Long may Airbourne continue.”
Airbourne is a free show and will return from 18 – 21 August 2022 with the RAF Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Typhoon confirmed to display at this year’s show, with more displays to be announced soon.
Organisers have released packages to help meet the growing income target of around £400,000 to break even. With increasing flying display and security costs the show must cover its cost this year or face being grounded for good in 2023.
To book seating, memberships, hospitality, trade, sponsorship and advertising or to simply donate, visit EastbourneAirshow.com.
