The Jersey International Air Display has been a feature of the island for 72 years.

The largest free event in the island, it was awarded the Paul Bowen Trophy best European Air Display in 2013.

While it often attracts tourists and aviation enthusiasts from further afield, with surveys estimating a £1.5m value to the economy resulting from last year’s display alone, the festival has always aimed to connect the community. Organisers say they hope that, with support, they’ll be able to put on static displays and STEM areas in the Lower Park to complement the spectacle.

“The Jersey International Air Display is part of the DNA of our Island Community,” the team said. “Not only is it a significant event in the Island’s calendar for local and visitors alike, but with its origins in the previous Battle of Britain Air Display it also remains a poignant reminder of the reasons behind our Liberation, and our liberty. It also remains a significant day for relevant charities to raise funds to care for our military veterans.”

Just £5 per spectator

Organisers are hoping to raise at least £50,000 through crowdfunding.

The team said that, “if £5 was donated for every person who watched the display in the bay alone last year, not only would that fund the 2024 display, it would also start to put us on a more sustainable footing for future displays, which is our ultimate objective”.

In the event that the Air Display is not able to go ahead, organisers said all funds raised will be put towards the 2025 Display. In the event the Display is permanently cancelled, donations will be split evenly between Jersey’s Helping Wings Charity and British Military Service Charities.

As well as donations, the team said they would “always welcome any approach from anyone interested in assisting with supporting the Display and the organisation and logistics surrounding it”.

Donate via our fundraising page here – https://sportsgiving.co.uk/sponsor/activity/appeal-for-12-september-2024/jersey-international-air-display