Dublin Docklands quays to shut for FlightFest – the ‘biggest fly past in aviation history’

The best vantage point for tomorrow’s FlightFest in Dublin is any place along the quays from the Custom House to the O2 arena, organisers have said.

However the 35 aircraft will also be visible from Dollymount beach and Ringsend for spectators who would prefer to sit in their cars.

Billed as the biggest fly-past in Irish aviation history, organisers have said the event will go ahead weather permitting. They are hoping, despite a mixed forecast, to avoid the twin aviation enemies of low cloud and high winds when the aircraft pass over the city between 2pm and 5pm. The event has been organised by the Irish Aviation Authority with Dublin City Council as part of the Gathering Ireland celebrations.

Among the aircraft taking part will be two second World War aircraft – a B17 Flying Fortress and a Catalina flying boat – along with jets such as a 1948 F86 Sabre fighter, numerous Air Corps planes and commercial aircraft, including an Airbus A34O owned by Etihad.

The Liffey quays will be pedestrianised between the East Link toll bridge and the Custom House from 6am to 7pm. Adjacent streets will also be closed to traffic. The Samuel Beckett bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic but will remain open for pedestrians. The Sean O’Casey Bridge will be closed to pedestrians for safety reasons. Pedestrians will not be allowed to congregate on other bridges. Tara Street Dart station will also be closed, as will the George’s Dock Luas stop. Some Dublin Bus services in the area of North Wall Quay and Sir John Rogerson’s Quay will be rerouted.

Spectators are advised not to drive into the city and are encouraged to come early, as festival events begin at noon with activities including music acts and street performers.