A RECORD number of visitors have attended air shows at Imperial War Musuem Duxford this year, it has been announced.

Almost 100,000 people have turned out in 2010, compared to 76,444 visitors in 2009.

In a superb year that commemorated not only the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain but also the 65th anniversary of B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B, visitors flocked to the air base to celebrate the iconic aircraft of the Second World War and to honour the bravery of the men that flew them.

Over 11,000 visitors saw the Battle of Britain commemorations get off to a flying start at the Spring Air Show in May, while over 27,000 visitors experienced the glorious sights of more than 50 classic warbirds performing a number of stunning displays at the Flying Legends event in July.

The Battle of Britain Air Show last month was the highlight of a remarkable year of 70th anniversary commemorative events – some 44,000 visitors attended to pay their respects to the ‘few’ and the aircraft they flew.

IWM Duxford’s 2010 air show season concluded with the Autumn Air Show, which saw 12,668 visitors celebrate the 65th birthday of B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B.

Museum director Richard Ashton said: “I am delighted that this year’s air show season enticed so many visitors to IWM Duxford.

“I’m particularly proud of this year’s programme of events commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and I’m delighted that so many visitors joined with us in those commemorations.

“We now look forward to next year’s air show season and hope that visitors will return to enjoy another fantastic programme of events in 2011.”

While the air show season has now concluded for 2010, plans are already in place for the 2011 events programme:

• Spring Air Show - Sunday May 22

• Flying Legends - Saturday and Sunday July 9 and 10

• The Duxford Air Show - Saturday and Sunday September 3 and 4

• Autumn Air Show - Sunday October 16

Further information regarding themes and content for each air show will be released in due course.