- Stagecoach renews partnership with South Ayrshire Council for one of Scotland's biggest free outdoor events
- Frequent park and ride shuttle buses and popular open-top flight commentary service return for 2026
- Visitors encouraged to plan ahead, use public transport where possible and book parking in advance
Stagecoach is once again partnering with South Ayrshire Council to help hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to this year's International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight, taking place on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 September.
Returning to Ayr's Low Green, the free event will feature spectacular flying displays on Friday evening from 6.15pm until approximately 8.40pm and Saturday afternoon from 1.30pm (display times are subject to change), alongside a bustling Festival Village packed with entertainment, activities, food and drink, fairground attractions and attractions for all ages.
As the event's official transport partner, Stagecoach will once again operate its popular park and ride shuttle service, helping visitors travel quickly and conveniently while easing congestion in Ayr town centre.
The bus operator will also bring back its popular open-top commentary bus, providing a dedicated platform for the Flight Director to deliver live commentary and expert insight throughout the flying displays.
Shuttle buses will operate every few minutes throughout the event, carrying customers from designated park and ride sites directly to drop-off zones, just moments from the heart of the festival.
Visitors are encouraged to use public transport where possible. However, pre-bookable parking will be available, with a park and ride operating from Ayr Racecourse on both days and an additional park and ride from Rozelle on the Saturday.
Customers planning to park are encouraged to book in advance through South Ayrshire Council. Booking ahead is highly recommended, as paying on the day will incur a surcharge and spaces are subject to availability.
Visitors travelling by bus are encouraged to plan ahead using the Stagecoach Bus App and can take advantage of great-value group tickets, alongside free bus travel for people under 22 and over 60 with a valid concessionary pass.
Fiona Doherty, Managing Director of Stagecoach South Scotland, said:
"The International Ayr Show is one of the highlights of the calendar and we're delighted to continue our partnership with South Ayrshire Council to help people enjoy everything this fantastic event has to offer.
"Whether you're travelling from across Ayrshire or further afield, our frequent bus services and park and ride shuttle service provide a simple, convenient and reliable way to experience the festival while helping to reduce congestion in the town.
"We're looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors on board and helping make another memorable Festival of Flight."
Councillor Alec Clark, South Ayrshire Council's Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, said:
"We're pleased to be partnering with Stagecoach again to ensure our park and ride service runs efficiently and smoothly, dropping visitors off right in the centre of the action.
"The airshow brings huge crowds to Ayr each year, so planning your journey ahead is key to making the most of the weekend. If you're parking in one of our car parks, book ahead to take advantage of our limited-time discounts."
The International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight attracts around 260,000 visitors across the weekend, making it one of Scotland's largest free outdoor events.
The festival showcases an impressive programme of aerial displays alongside live entertainment, family activities, food and drink, fairground attractions and market stalls.
Further information on Stagecoach services for the event will be announced closer to the festival.
