A POPULAR air show will not be taking to the skies this summer amid concerns around social distancing.

Eastbourne’s international airshow was due to take place between August 12 and 15 after being cancelled in 2020.

However, the event - called Airbourne - has been “hopefully” rescheduled for 2022 due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, said organisers

The decision to cancel the event was made taking into account the “continuing forms of social distancing measures” and “ensuring the safety of Eastbourne’s residents and visitors”.

The organisers will now look at how Airbourne can become a sustainable event in the hope that it can return on 18 – 21 August 2022.

Eastbourne Borough Council lead for tourism and enterprise, councillor Margaret Bannister said “Airbourne draws thousands of spectators each year and with large ticketed events, such as Glastonbury, confirming postponements due to concerns over managing numbers of attendees, it would be impossible for us to safely manage numbers at a non-ticketed event as popular Airbourne.

“The decision to postpone has not been taken lightly however we know that it is the responsible one to make.

“There will still be plenty to look forward to this summer with plans well underway for a range of smaller, ticketed events throughout August where numbers can be managed safely in line with social distancing restrictions with updates to be announced soon – watch this space”

All work on Airbourne so far will be rolled over to 2022, including the supported charities and the People’s charity choice.

All those booking trade stands, hospitality and seating will be contacted in due course with options to transfer to 2022 or receive a refund.

Fans can sign up for next year’s event online at www.eastbourneairshow.com to become an “Airshow Insider” and be the first to hear exclusive event and flying announcements for 2022.