There's some welcome news for aviation fans, now Spring is here, as show organisers announce the iconic ‘Muscle Biplane' will join the line-up for the much-anticipated Manston International Airshow this August (Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 August 2025). Tickets are now on sale with an Early Bird discount valid until the end of May for anyone planning a Summer adventure in Kent.
The Muscle Biplane, appropriately named the Jet Pitts, is based on the Pitts S2S and has been specially modified for excellent performance and superb power to weight radio. Powered by two jet turbine engines, in combination with a six-cylinder 8.5 litre Lycoming 540 engine, the Muscle Pitts is designed to provide the ultimate in spectacular aerial entertainment.
Crowds will be entertained by ace pilot Rich Goodwin, when the Muscle Biplane hovers like a Harrier and performs double-hammerheads and the amazing Tower of Power.
The Pitts Special series of aircraft, whose design turns 80 this year, will form part of the largest ever gathering of these incredible machines on static display at Manston International Airshow to celebrate their milestone anniversary. The Muscle Biplane joins confirmed acts The Great War Display Team and the OV-10 Bronco from the Bronco Demo Team, as well as RAF Falcons Display Team and flypasts from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Typhoon. Further additions to the flying programme to be announced in coming weeks..
The two-day family-friendly event will celebrate aviation throughout Manston's history as an airfield, from its early development during World War One, through its RAF and Cold War years to its more recent commercial and recreational use. Visitors can expect to see a range of civilian display teams, harking back to the Golden Age of Aviation from the 1920s and ‘30s.
The ground-based element of the show will also provide something memorable and educational, with live arenas showcasing thrilling displays covering over 100 years of aviation and transport history. Attractions will include military vehicles and classic cars, along with a variety of exhibitors and food concessions, live music, a funfair and community stalls.
Manston International Airshow organiser Bill Giles said: "The Airshow will have an educational focus and will raise both awareness and money for several national and local charities. We look to celebrate the past, present and future of aviation at the historic Manston Airport this Summer."
Riveroak Strategic Partners, the owners of Manston Airport, is donating the use of the airfield as a venue in order for the event to raise a generous amount of money for the chosen charities.
Day tickets start at £32.30 for adults aged 17 and over (full price £35.84 from 1 June) and a family day ticket for two adults and two children aged 5-16 at £81.29 (full price £91.39 from 1 June). Prices include booking fee. There are also concessions and children under five and registered Carers go free.
Tickets include free car parking or use of a free shuttle bus service which will be operating from designated local hubs to help reduce traffic to and from the show.
To buy tickets and for more information about the show and full terms and conditions go to the website: www.manstoninternationalairshow.com
For trade and sponsorship enquiries please go to the website: https://manstoninternationalairshow.com/traders-and-exhibitors/ and https://manstoninternationalairshow.com/sponsorship
Or email: [email protected]