If you glance into the West Midlands' skies this weekend, you may spot one or two unusual aircraft. That is because The Midlands Air Festival is taking place this weekend, continuing through to Sunday, May 31.
Now in its eighth year, organisers have pledged a weekend packed with family entertainment featuring the 'very best in aviation entertainment'. Visitors can look forward to the renowned nightfire show, spectacular aerial displays and hot air balloon launches that promise to captivate audiences of all ages as they paint the skies with vibrant colours.
Ground-level attractions will include plenty of entertainment options alongside numerous trade stands.
According to Coventry Live, on Saturday and Sunday gates open at 5:30am ready for the early morning hot air balloon mass ascent. Gates close at 9:30pm on Saturday and 9pm on Sunday.
Camping tickets have sold out but festival tickets remain available on the website. Those planning to attend must purchase tickets beforehand as they won't be sold on the gate. A day ticket costs £38.98 for adults and £19.48 for teenagers aged 13 to 16. Entry is free for children aged up to 12. Two-day and three-day tickets are also available. Carer and companion tickets can be obtained when accompanied by at least one paying adult.
Parking is complimentary, though disabled parking or an upgrade to premium parking will need to be arranged through the website. Balloon flights are on offer at the festival but seem to have already sold out. You can visit the website for the most up-to-date information.
What can I see at the festival?
Saturday, May 30
- 05:30: Car Parks and Event Opens
- 06:00 - 08:00: Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent
- 08:00 - 09:00: Model Hot Air Balloon Display
- 09:00 - 10:00: Model Aircraft Display
- 10:00 - 12:15: Hot Air Balloon Tethering
- 11:00 - 11:30: Model Aircraft Airfield Attack Display
- 12:15 - 15:05: Air Display (Part 1)
- 15:05 - 16:05: Hot Air Balloon Tethering
- 16:05 - 19:00: Air Display (Part 2)
- 19:00 - 20:30: Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent
- 21:30: Gates Close
Sunday, May 31
- 05:30: Car Parks and Event Opens
- 06:00 - 08:00: Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascent
- 08:00 - 09:00: Model Hot Air Balloon Display
- 09:00 - 10:00: Model Aircraft Display
- 10:00 - 11:35: Hot Air Balloon Tethering
- 10:25 - 10:55: Model Aircraft Airfield Attack Display
- 11:35 - 15:05: Air Display (Part 1)
- 15:05 - 15:55: Hot Air Balloon Tethering
- 15:55 - 18:30: Air Display (Part 2)
- 18:30 - 19:30: Hot Air Balloon Special Shapes Display
- 21:00: Gates Close
