Tri-Service

Shoreham Airshow Cancelled After 2015 Tragedy

The Shoreham Airshow won't be held this year after an air crash left 11 people dead during the event last August.

Organisers say they've made the decision out of respect for those killed when a Hawker Hunter jet hit the A27 - a road close to the airshow venue.

An interim report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch found the jet had expired ejector seat parts and an out-of-date technical manual.

The investigation into the tragedy is still ongoing, but a Shoreham Airshow spokesperson said the display might return in 2017.

A statement on the airshow's website read:

"Following careful consultation and consideration Shoreham Airshow Ltd has decided that the 2016 Shoreham Airshow will not go ahead."

"The decision has been taken primarily out of respect for all those affected by last August’s tragedy and also in view of the ongoing Air Accidents Investigation Branch investigation – and any review of their regulations that the Civil Aviation Authority may subsequently undertake.

"We understand that this decision may be disappointing for many who have been part of the extended Shoreham Airshow family over the years. We would like to thank everyone who has supported the air show for the last 26 years, particularly local volunteers and the surrounding community.

"When and if it is appropriate to do so, we will explore the possibility of a 2017 airshow. In the meantime, we continue to be fully committed to assisting the Air Accidents Investigation Branch with their ongoing investigation.

"The thoughts and deepest condolences of everyone at Shoreham Airshow Ltd remain with all of the victims of the tragedy."

The news has met a mixed reaction from the public, meanwhile. Roy Clark told the BBC he felt the airshow should "definitely go ahead". He said:

"Accidents happen - it was a tragedy, but that shouldn't actually stop something which has got such a long tradition."

Judith Brean disagreed: "This area is so built up I feel it's a danger anyway, and it would be very disrespectful to those who died to hold that again."