Formerly known as the biggest free seaside airshow in the world, Airbourne lost its title last year when the Borough Council introduced an entry fee for the four day airshow.
Thankfully Airbourne is returning to being free this year. Last year's £5 entry was a mistake. I love this event. I find everyone from the RAF, Army, Royal Navy and Marines to be very friendly and are always happy to talk to children and grown ups alike.
The displays don't seem to be as varied as they have been in previous years, but this is largely down to operational commitments by the armed forces.
The Red Arrows are always a huge attraction and tend to take to the skies for around 10-15 minutes for their display - normally they do at least two over the four days. Also the RAF Falcons were very popular in the past, but they weren't at the event last year, as the Western Lawns are now deemed to be too small for them to land in, after one Falcon suffered a nasty accident in 2007.
Other displays which often turn up include the Hawk, Tucano, US Air Force, F16s, Merlin, Sea King, Chinook, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Wing Walkers and the Eurofighter - which is very loud!
On the ground, there's the RAF Village, which is a good area for children to collect stickers from pilots and crew, as well as autographs. This is also where the recruitment stand is. There are also simulators and planes available for you to sit in the cockpit. Elsewhere in the arena, there tends to be a dog display. Last year the RAF Police Dogs weren't there, but the Essex Dog Display Team - who are non-military - were. The Royal Marines also performed an unarmed combat display last year, and in the past, various ATC branches have taken on each other.
If you go along, prepare for big crowds as around half a million visit the Western Lawns and seafront over the four days. Also leave early to make sure you can get parked ok, or use public transport. There is a park and ride set up from Five Acre Field, and a bike park for those cycling in.
The event's been going for around 17 years now, which proves its popularity. There's little cover around the display area, so take along umbrellas - just in case! - and suncream.
In the evenings, there's often activities at the bandstand. The final evening sees the Sunset Ceremony, which features one of the planes return for a final display before disappearing into the horizon. After dark there's a massive firework display. If you go to this, be warned, it takes a very long time to get out of town again by car. read more
