English Riviera Airshow
Brief
The English Riviera Airshow – formerly known as the Torbay Airshow – has been a highlight on the Torbay calendar since its launch in 2016, taking to the skies every year except during the Covid pandemic. This free, two-day spectacle draws thousands of visitors to the stunning South Devon coastline, bringing together world-class aerial displays from the likes of the RAF Red Arrows, family entertainment on land and sea, and a true sense of community celebration.
When Torbay Council sought to revitalise the airshow as a cornerstone of its English Riviera Destination Placemaking strategy, REM Events was appointed to take over full event management.
Our brief was simple, but ambitious. We were tasked to transform the airshow into a financially self-sustaining model that not only delivered an unforgettable visitor experience but also strengthened Torbay's position as a premier coastal destination.
To make this happen, we focused on three key goals: secure new sponsorship opportunities, develop diverse revenue streams, and deliver seamless on-the-ground operations. We also took on management of the media office to boost the airshow's national and international profile and support Torbay Council's wider placemaking ambitions.
Solution
Taking over the airshow was an exciting challenge, and we approached it with a clear plan and plenty of collaboration. We needed to deliver the essentials and more.
Working hand-in-hand with stakeholders
Our first step was to build strong relationships with everyone involved – from Torbay Council and the English Riviera BID to the flight programme team. Everything on the ground had to work perfectly with what was happening in the skies. Two days of action-packed flying needed flawless coordination, and that's exactly what we delivered.
A new approach to revenue
The event had to be financially sustainable. For this, we re-evaluated concessions, introduced paid parking, and brought in new commercial and brand partnerships. These changes gave the airshow a solid foundation for its financial future.
On-the-ground precision
From crowd flow to infrastructure, we made sure everything ran like clockwork. And by working closely with the flight programme team, we kept land and sky in perfect sync – so visitors enjoyed a seamless experience.
Boosting visibility
Our dedicated media office amplified the airshow with local, national and international coverage. We wanted to capture the spectacular displays in the skies and the family atmosphere over the two days. But this wasn't just about the event – it was about putting the English Riviera on the map.
Strategic rebrand
To link this landmark event with its destination, we partnered with the English Riviera BID to rebrand the event as the English Riviera Airshow. This gave the show a fresh identity and aligned it with the region's wider tourism strategy.
Outcome
The English Riviera Airshow delivered outstanding results, cementing its place as a flagship event for the region. By securing local business investment, strategic partnerships and diversifying revenue streams through paid car parking and concessions, we reduced reliance on council budgets, creating a more sustainable financial model for the future.
Robust security and safety protocols, combined with carefully planned infrastructure, ensured the event ran smoothly and safely for all visitors. Visitor numbers grew significantly, driving a positive impact on the local economy, reinforcing the airshow's role as a key destination attraction.
Stewardship of public spaces was a priority throughout, with meticulous planning for build and pack-down phases to minimise disruption and protect the environment. Behind the scenes, we successfully managed a complex network of stakeholders across air, land and sea, ensuring seamless coordination and compliance at every stage.
The result? A spectacular airshow that not only thrilled audiences but also strengthened community ties, boosted tourism, and set a new benchmark for operational excellence.
