The Duxford Summer Air Show (4–5 July 2026)

Kicking off the major weekend events is the highly anticipated Duxford Summer Air Show. Taking place on the 4th and 5th of July, this event is designed to deliver sky-high entertainment for the entire family.

It perfectly balances the roar of contemporary fast jets with the nostalgic hum of historic piston engines. One of the most thrilling highlights confirmed for the 2026 iteration is the participation of the internationally acclaimed Flying Bulls.

This precision display team is slated to bring a magnificent array of vintage power to the Cambridgeshire skies. Spectators can witness the unmistakable twin-boom silhouette of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, alongside the North American B-25J Mitchell, North American P-51D Mustang, Chance Vought F4U-4 Corsair, and the Grumman F8F-2 Bearcat.

Complementing this historic lineup will be the sheer brute force of the Royal Air Force. The Typhoon Display Team from No. 29 Squadron will tear through the skies, demonstrating the pinnacle of modern aerial agility. The beloved Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) will also grace the event with a majestic Douglas C-47A Dakota III, accompanied by a Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane on Sunday.

The Battle of Britain Air Show (12–13 September 2026)

As summer gives way to autumn, the mood at Duxford shifts to one of profound remembrance. The Battle of Britain Air Show, scheduled for the 12th and 13th of September, transports visitors directly back to the summer of 1940.

This event is far more than a standard aviation display; it is an immersive, period-accurate experience where attendees are encouraged to don 1940s attire, dance to vintage big bands, and explore living history encampments.

The aerial displays are entirely dedicated to the warbirds that defined the era. The skies will hum with the sound of Rolls-Royce Merlin and Griffon engines as an unparalleled gathering of historic fighters take flight.

The undisputed zenith of this weekend is the legendary Duxford 'Big Wing' finale, an emotionally charged spectacle where dozens of Supermarine Spitfires and Hawker Hurricanes take to the air simultaneously in a massed formation. It is a uniquely moving tribute to the aviators of the Second World War.

Special Flying Events: Evenings and Finales

Beyond the two flagship weekend shows, IWM Duxford is hosting special atmospheric events to expand the aviation experience.

On Saturday, the 22nd of August, the venue hosts the Duxford Flying Evening. This event offers a rare opportunity to witness historic aircraft silhouetted against the fading light of dusk.

As darkness falls, the atmosphere transforms dramatically, culminating in an awe-inspiring display of airborne pyrotechnics and fireworks launched directly from the wings of aerobatic aircraft.

Closing out the main season will be the Duxford Flying Finale on Saturday, the 3rd of October. This event serves as a final, celebratory gathering of the aviation community before the winter maintenance period begins. It provides enthusiasts with one last opportunity to hear the engines roar.

Themed Flying Days

Throughout the 2026 season, Duxford runs a series of smaller, themed 'Flying Days'. These intimate events offer curated flying displays intertwined with full access to the museum's extensive collections.

VE Day Flying Day (9 May): Marking the victory in Europe, this day features historic titans like the Supermarine Spitfire Mk I, Hawker Hurricane Mk I, and the Grumman Wildcat. D-Day Flying Day (6 June): A solemn retelling of the Normandy landings through the aircraft that flew above the beaches.

The Americans Flying Day (24 July): Honouring the shared aviation history between the United Kingdom and the United States, acknowledging the vital role American forces played while stationed in Britain.

Essential Information and Logistics

For those planning to attend any of the 2026 events, preparation is crucial. IWM Duxford operates a strict advance-ticket policy; no tickets will be available to purchase at the gate. To accommodate families, children under fifteen are granted free entry with every standard adult ticket.

If driving, the site is accessible via Junction 10 of the M11. A parking permit must be booked simultaneously with your admission tickets.

The closest railway station is Whittlesford Parkway, and IWM Duxford provides a complimentary shuttle bus service connecting the station to the airfield on major air show weekends.

For a premium experience, visitors can upgrade to the VIP Gold Experience, offering exclusive marquee access and prime viewing spots.