1943 Spitfire to take to the skies for the Clacton Airshow

The aircraft has been added to this week's line-up

Clacton Airshow
Author: Harrison CablePublished 24th Aug 2026

The 33rd Clacton Airshow, which takes place on the 27th and 28th of August, will feature an appearance by the iconic Spitfire MH434, among other exciting attractions on the Essex Sunshine Coast.

Organised by Tendring District Council, this year’s event will see a lineup of aerial displays alongside ground activities for families and aviation enthusiasts.

Spitfire MH434 is being sponsored by MRL Productions for its special appearance at the event. Built in 1943 at Vickers-Armstrong's Castle Bromwich factory, this aircraft boasts a remarkable wartime history and has been featured in various films such as Operation Crossbow and Battle of Britain.

Visitors to the West Greensward Airshow site can witness aviation technology firsthand and explore career opportunities in the industry. The RAF Careers Engagement team will provide a replica Typhoon cockpit experience and the Batak reaction challenge.

Replica Typhoon cockpit

On the ground, the RAF will showcase career displays and aviation exhibits, while the flying programme will include aircraft like the RAF Grob Tutor T1, used for training future pilots.

The Red Arrows are appearing at the event

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration, and Tourism, expressed excitement for the ground activities complementing the aerial displays, creating a unique festival atmosphere. "Clacton Airshow is a fantastic family event, promising entertainment both on the ground and in the air," Henderson said.

This year’s event theme, A Celebration of Aviation, will be brought to life with displays from the RAF Red Arrows, Spitfire MH434, the MiG-17F, and many more, including a twilight performance featuring the Desert Spitfire.

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