Manston Airport, an abandoned UK airport that closed its doors in 2014, is preparing to reopen for its first event in over a decade. The Thanet-based airport, located in Kent, will host an international airshow next summer, marking a significant milestone as it transitions toward its planned redevelopment as an international travel hub. This two-day event is being hailed as a “last hurrah” for the site in its current state, as renovations for its transformation are slated to begin in 2026.
The Manston International Airshow: A Glimpse of the Airport’s Future
Scheduled for summer 2025, the Manston International Airshow will showcase an array of aerial performances, with participants including the Belgium-based Bronco Demo Team OV-10B. The event promises to draw aviation enthusiasts and families alike, with flight demonstrations, static aircraft displays, and interactive exhibits.
The airshow aims to celebrate the airport’s history while generating public interest and support for its redevelopment plans. Organizers view this event as a bridge between the airport’s storied past and its promising future as a key player in UK aviation.
A Decade of Dormancy and Ambitious Plans for the Future
Manston Airport ceased operations in 2014 due to financial difficulties and declining demand. However, the site has remained a point of interest for local communities and aviation advocates who have pushed for its revival. In 2026, the airport will undergo extensive renovations to transform it into a fully operational international travel hub, with a completion target set for early 2028.
The redevelopment project is expected to include upgrades to runways, passenger terminals, and cargo facilities, positioning Manston as a vital gateway for air freight and passenger traffic in the southeast of England. The project is part of a broader effort to enhance the UK’s aviation infrastructure, catering to the growing demand for air travel and cargo capacity.
The airshow and subsequent reopening plans have generated excitement among aviation enthusiasts and the local community. Residents and officials have expressed optimism about the economic benefits of the airport’s revival, including job creation and increased tourism in the region.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has been working closely with the airport’s stakeholders to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards for the airshow and future commercial operations. Additionally, local councils are supporting the redevelopment with funding and logistical coordination.
A Broader Trend in UK Airport Revivals
Manston Airport’s story is not unique. Doncaster Sheffield Airport, another UK airport that ceased operations in 2022, is also in the final stages of securing an operator for its reopening. These developments reflect a broader trend of revitalizing dormant airport infrastructure to meet the rising demand for air travel and freight capacity.
The reopening of Manston Airport and its airshow event could set a precedent for other abandoned airports, demonstrating the potential for these facilities to contribute to regional and national aviation strategies.
Looking Ahead
The Manston International Airshow is set to draw significant attention to the airport’s transformation plans, offering a glimpse of its potential as a modern travel and logistics hub. As renovations commence in 2026, the airport is poised to play a critical role in bolstering the UK’s aviation sector, with promises of economic revitalization and enhanced connectivity for the southeast region.
For now, the airshow will serve as a nostalgic yet forward-looking celebration, bringing Manston Airport back into the spotlight after a decade of silence.
