Aviation enthusiasts, families and visitors from across the South West are set to descend on Cotswold Airport this summer as the airport prepares to host its annual Open Weekend on 4 and 5 July 2026.
Running from 10am to 4pm on both days, the event will provide a rare opportunity for members of the public to get up close to a diverse range of historic and modern aircraft, with opportunities to step aboard some of aviation’s most iconic airliners alongside a packed programme of displays and family-friendly attractions.
Among the highlights is the chance to explore the resident Boeing 747 ‘Negus’, allowing visitors to experience the legendary ‘Queen of the Skies’ from the inside. Guests will also be able to board the VIP-configured Boeing 727 M-STAR, an aircraft that is rarely accessible to the public.
The weekend will feature high-speed taxi demonstrations by former Royal Air Force Buccaneers, while visitors can also view an impressive collection of aircraft including a P-51D Mustang, Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX, aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, a Royal Navy Merlin helicopter and aircraft operated by Navy Wings.
More than 50 visiting aircraft are expected to attend, complemented by a wide range of attractions on the ground. These include a Red Arrows flight simulator, helicopter rides, airside tours, military vehicles, classic cars, steam engines, Gloucestershire Police displays, animal handling experiences, live music, food and drink vendors, two licensed bars and an Alpine Formula 1 show car.
The event will also showcase the work of the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, whose helicopter and crew will be operating from the airport throughout the weekend, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the organisation’s life-saving missions across the region.
Suzannah Harvey, CEO of Cotswold Airport, said: “Our Open Weekend is all about bringing aviation to life for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re passionate about historic aircraft, fascinated by modern aviation, or simply looking for a fantastic family day out, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
“We’re delighted to welcome the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, military and civilian aircraft operators, exhibitors and enthusiasts from across the country for what promises to be one of our biggest and most exciting events yet.”
The annual Open Weekend has become one of the airport’s flagship public events, combining aviation heritage with interactive experiences and community engagement, while giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the UK’s most distinctive aviation locations.
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