The Red Arrows will not perform at this year’s Blackpool Air Show. The world-famous display team performed for hundreds of thousands of people in the resort last August. But this year it will be in North America for a 13-date, month-long tour. However, the Red Arrows have been confirmed for the Southport Air Show on 29 and 30 August.

Will Myles, Head of VisitBlackpool, said: “We fully respect the important role they play in representing the UK at home and around the world, and we look forward to welcoming them back in future years.” The RAF is still supporting Blackpool with its Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight displays teams. The Red Arrows have been performing in Blackpool since the 1990s.

Although the jets will be back in the UK after the American tour, they will be grounded for mandatory maintenance checks while the show takes place. Organisers are working to find a replacement.

The American tour is expected to generate more than £2.5bn in direct foreign investment for the UK.

At the Southport show, the team of Hawk jets will be joined by Spitfires, Hurricanes and Dakotas.

Sefton Council’s Paulette Lappin said: “It’s no secret that they are one of the most iconic display teams in the world and their performances always create a truly special atmosphere along our coastline.

“We have been working hard in the background for many months to get the Red Arrows and other stunning RAF aircraft to appear.”

Will Myles added: “In the coming weeks, we will reveal the full programme of high-impact displays, crowd favourites, and exciting new additions that will ensure the event continues to deliver the world-class experience our visitors expect.”

Meanwhile, an RAF Spokesperson said: “I can confirm that due to the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team returning from their USA Tour and then a subsequent mandatory crew stand-down and aircraft maintenance activity, the ‘Red Arrows’ will not display at the Blackpool Air Show 2026.”

Air Officer Commanding No. 1 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson, said of the Red Arrows’ US tour: “We’re honoured to accept the US military’s invitation for the Red Arrows to participate in these special Fourth of July events in the country’s 250th year.

“I hope the Red Arrows’ trademark combination of close formation flying, speed and world-class precision will excite and inspire the hundreds of thousands of people attending these shows.”

The Red Arrows’ last United States tour was in 2019.