San Javier is preparing to host one of the Region of Murcia’s largest tourism events, with more than 180,000 visitors expected to attend this year’s International Air Festival.
The event, organised by San Javier City Council, will take place from May 1 to 3 in Santiago de la Ribera, combining large-scale air displays with a broad programme of leisure and cultural activities.
Mayor José Miguel Luengo confirmed that over 45 aircraft will participate across the weekend, marking the festival’s third consecutive edition and its consolidation as a flagship event for both tourism and aviation enthusiasts.
Major air displays over the Mar Menor
The highlight will be the main air show on Sunday, held between 10:00 and 15:00 over the Mar Menor coastline. More than 20 teams and around 40 aircraft will take part, showcasing military, historic, sport, and aerobatic aviation.
Key attractions include the return of the Eurofighter Typhoon, the Mirlo formation—successor to Spain’s renowned aerobatic patrol—, the PAPEA parachute team, and the debut appearance of the NH-90 “Lobo” helicopter. Firefighting aircraft such as the Canadair UD13 will also feature, alongside helicopters from the Civil Guard, National Police, and regional emergency services performing live rescue demonstrations.
Civilian and international participants will include well-known pilots and teams such as Team Raven and the inclusive WeFly Team, made up of pilots with disabilities.
Sunset show and pre-event programme
Festivities will begin on Friday with training flights and ground demonstrations, followed by a Sunset air show on Saturday evening. The highlight of the night display will be the British team Aerosparx, known for illuminated aerobatics and pyrotechnic effects.
The programme also includes precision drills by the Army Honor Guard, staged across key locations in the town.
Music, family activities and exhibition spaces
Beyond aviation, the festival offers a strong family-oriented programme. Concerts will be held on Friday and Saturday, while the Play Zone will feature flight simulators, drone activities, and immersive experiences.
Visitors will also be able to meet pilots during autograph sessions and explore static aircraft displays and aviation-themed markets along the seafront promenade.
Transport, security and services
To accommodate the large crowds, approximately 12,000 parking spaces will be made available across six designated areas, supported by shuttle bus services operating on Sunday.
A comprehensive security operation involving more than 200 personnel—including police, Civil Guard, emergency services, and military units—will be in place. Medical provision will include a field hospital, first aid points, and ambulances, alongside reinforced cleaning and public facilities.
Local authorities have advised that traffic disruptions may occur from Thursday, with real-time updates available through official municipal channels.
With its blend of high-level aviation displays and extensive public programming, the San Javier International Air Festival is set to become one of the standout events on Spain’s spring calendar.
