Midlands Air Festival 2025

jbiggadike
6 days ago
2 min read

The Midlands Air Festival 2025, held from May 30th to June 1st at the picturesque Ragley Hall in Warwickshire, once again captivated aviation enthusiasts and families alike. Despite blustery winds, the rain mercifully stayed away, allowing the three-day spectacle to unfold in all its glory.

A Historic Setting for Aerial Excellence

Ragley Hall's sprawling estate provided a stunning backdrop for the festival's diverse aerial displays. The natural amphitheater-like grounds offered unobstructed views, enhancing the experience for attendees. The event seamlessly blended the grandeur of historic aviation with modern aerobatics, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

Highlights from the Midlands Air Festival 2025

Red Arrows and RAF Falcons

The Royal Air Force's Red Arrows delivered their signature precision aerobatics across all three days, drawing gasps and applause from the crowd. Complementing them, the RAF Falcons parachute display team executed flawless jumps, showcasing their exceptional skill and coordination.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight

A poignant tribute came from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, featuring the iconic Lancaster bomber and Spitfire. Their synchronized flypasts served as a moving homage to the heroes of World War II.

Felix Baumgartner's Red Bull Bo 105

Thrill-seekers were treated to an electrifying performance by Felix Baumgartner piloting the Red Bull MBB Bo 105 helicopter. His aerobatic maneuvers defied gravity and showcased the helicopter's remarkable agility.

Debuts and Rare Appearances

The festival marked the UK debut of Historic Helicopters' Westland Sea King HAR3, performing a captivating Search and Rescue demonstration. Equally notable was the appearance of the F-86 Sabre from France’s Mistral Warbirds, bringing Cold War-era jet power to the skies.

Sally B's 50th Anniversary

Celebrating 50 years of operation in the UK, the B-17 Flying Fortress 'Sally B' graced the festival with its majestic presence. As Europe's last airworthy B-17 bomber, its flights were both a tribute and a highlight of the event.

Ballooning Marvels and Nighttime Spectacles at Midlands Air Festival 2025

Mass Hot Air Balloon Ascents

Each morning and evening, the skies above Ragley Hall were adorned with vibrant hot air balloons. The mass ascents, featuring over 100 balloons, created a mesmerizing tableau of color and motion, enchanting attendees of all ages.

Nightfire Extravaganza

As dusk settled, the Nightfire show illuminated the night. Aerobatic displays by the Twister and Extra 300 aircraft, enhanced with pyrotechnics, dazzled the audience. The spectacle culminated in a synchronized hot air balloon glow, followed by a breathtaking fireworks finale, leaving an indelible impression on all present.

A Festival to Remember

The Midlands Air Festival 2025 successfully combined historical reverence with contemporary excitement. Its diverse program, set against the idyllic backdrop of Ragley Hall, offered something for everyone—from aviation aficionados to families seeking a memorable day out. The festival's ability to adapt and deliver, even amidst challenging weather conditions, underscores its reputation as a premier event in the UK's airshow calendar.