Northern Ireland International Airshow Pushed Back To 2028

Councillors have agreed to postpone the borough’s Air Show until 2028.

The decision, taken on Tuesday evening, will give staff three years to prepare and seek partnerships with larger mainland shows such as Farnborough.

Members said the delay would also allow focus on Armed Forces Day and USA 250 celebrations planned for 2026.

Concerns were raised about value for money, with councillors agreeing that all major council-run events — not just the Air Show — will undergo a one-off review in 2028. Officers will bring forward proposals on how those reviews should be carried out.

The committee’s decision will be ratified at a meeting of the full council next month.