AFTER thousands of visitors and residents took stock on a brilliant series of daytime displays on the opening act of the Bournemouth Air Festival, the wonders of Night Air brought Thursday's flying to a close.

The evening's displays began with the iconic Spitfire piloted by Phil O'Dell, which had everyone's eyes fixed on the skies.

As light continued to fade, the aerobatic sensations that are the FireFlies soared into view.

With on board illuminations partnered with the gentle release of fireworks, the pair of planes piloted by Jon Gowdy and Andy Durston put on quite the display, with accompanying music from Star Wars to complete the experience.

However, the explosive finale of crowd favourite Otto the Helicopter, partnered by a Piper Cub, brought the curtain down in style this evening.

Helicopter pilot Brendan O'Brien has racked up more than 13,000 hours on more than 300 different types of aircraft, but his dramatic pyrotechnic masterclass once again thrilled spectators.

Brendan will return to perform at Night Air again on Friday and Saturday evening, as will the FireFlies.

Tomorrow will also see a unique dusk display from the RAF Typhoon and an amazing showing from the Red Devils Parachute Display Team.

To see all our Air Festival coverage visit bournemouthecho.co.uk/air