It certainly will be destination Westport this May as the town hosts an airshow, loop-the-loops will swirl around the sky, and pilots will conduct nifty tricks with precision and a daredevil attitude, creating a day for the whole family to enjoy along Westport Quay on Sunday, May 14.
A number of domestic and international aircraft will be on display along one of Mayo’s incredible coastlines. At last week's launch of the show the organisers were delighted to announce some of the confirmed aircraft taking part at the event. They include (1 ) The Breitling Wingwalkers - the world's only aerobatic formation wingwalking team. (2 ) Catalina Flying Boat – Which was one of the widely used flying boats of World War II. (3 ) The BAC Strikemaster – A British jet-powered training and light attack aircraft. (3 ) Eddie Goggins – The flying Dentist (4 ) Gerry Humphreys – The Flying Farmer and (5 ) Irish Historic Flight Foundation – The Boeing Stearman Biplane and The Chipmunks will be showcased. The full airshow line up will be announced over the coming weeks.
Speaking at the launch of the Westport Airshow Tom Gilligan, director of services at Mayo County Council, said: “The Westport Airshow is one the main events of Westport's 250th anniversary celebrations and indeed will be one of the biggest events to take place on the Wild Atlantic Way this year.” As well as aerobatics in the sky, there will be family entertainment including a fun fair along the quays, sample the delights from artisan food and craft markets and there will be helicopter pleasure flights from the iconic Westport House.
“There is something for everyone from the activities in the sky to all the fun of the fair on the ground. Westport really is the place to be on May 14. We’re really looking forward to welcoming the many visitors to the town to help celebrate our birthday,” said Councillor Christy Hyland, chairman of the Westport250 Committee.
The ground activity starts at 1pm with the airshow starting at 3pm. To get the most out of the Wesport Airshow, organisers are advising spectators to arrive early and plan their journeys in advance. More information about the event can be found at www.westportairshow.com