The air display at Felixstowe Carnival has been cancelled after changes to regulations following the Shoreham disaster saw insurance costs increase.

For many years, Felixstowe Carnival, this year taking place on July 23 and 24, has incorporated an air display.

However, organisers behind the event said that higher costs now associated with the running of air displays had caused them to cancel the attraction.

The decision was made at a meeting of the Felixstowe Carnival Committee on Monday.

In a statement released by the committee yesterday, it said the decision “was not made lightly” and that the committee was fully aware of what a popular part of the two-day carnival the air show had become.

Last month, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) increased the minimum altitude at which ex-military jets can perform aerobatic maneuvers, increased the minimum distance of separation between a civil display and a crowd, and strengthened the requirements for post-display reports in a bid to improve the quality of feedback on safety issues.

In addition, enhanced risk assessments and tougher checks on the experience, skill and health of pilots were introduced, while increased costs were imposed onto air display organisers, including higher insurance costs.

Sally Gallant, chair of the carnival committee, said: “We are a committee of volunteers, raising money for charity, and the insurance costs for the air display now make it unviable.

“Although we are very disappointed, we hope the community will understand our decision and come out to support us as much as they have in other years.

“The air display was one small part of the carnival. There are still many other great attractions for all the family. We have signed some terrific local bands and entertainers.

“The long-standing traditional procession through the town remains one of our highlights, as does the grand firework finale.

“I would appeal to people turn out to take part in the carnival and support local charities.”