Costa Tropical skies roar once more. Credit: Motril festival aereo FB
Motril council has announced the 20th year of the International Air Festival on Sunday, June 20 with the event taking place along the local coastline and organisers expecting over 200,000 visitors for the full day of jaw-dropping aviation wonder.
Programme details for the milestone year
Mayor Luisa Garcia Chamorro presented the plans and said the festival roots among residents and tourists and called it Spain’s best aeronautical festival. She recalled its 2005 start with three helicopters and 500 spectators, now a key summer date for Motril and Costa Tropical. Organisers have described a balanced programme ranging from gliders to combat jets with helicopters prominent as tribute to the first event. This gathering will do wonders for the local economy and tourism across the Costa Tropical.
Featured international military and rescue aircraft
New elements include the Sikorsky MH-60R Romeo helicopter from the US Navy making its first appearance in Motril. This Rota-based aircraft ranks among the world’s most sophisticated naval helicopters. German air force Demo Team from Ala 51 flies Tornado jets in a rare display in Spain. German helicopters join US Navy, Maritime Rescue, INFOCA, Guardia Civil and National Police units.
Extensive safety measures and access information
Deputy mayor Jose Peña outlined the security plans with Local Police, Guardia Civil, National Police and fire services for thousands of visitors. Extra parking includes a new zone with nearly 500 spaces. Visitors should arrive early preferring public transport to avoid congestion. Attendees should arrive two hours early via Avenida Nuestra Senora de la Cabeza, Rambla de las Brujas or the Playa Granada road. Parking is expected, as in other years, to be slow moving entering the official parking. Not to worry though, as best views are expected to be from the beach. Still, those looking for a day of wonder watching the skies should arrive as early as possible to nab the best parking spots.
Drone flights are banned all day over restricted airspace risking serious penalties for violations. This year confirms the Motril’s airshow status as a top Spanish aviation event and key Andalucian summer draw.
