Southend Airport has welcomed its first arrivals today as it plays host to RAF aircraft taking part in a number of airshows.

The famous Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) aircraft Spitfire, Lancaster and Hurricane have landed at the airport today - alongside the Typhoon display team (August 17).

This is as airport is becoming a base for the RAF aircraft this week which are taking part in the Eastbourne Airshow from August 17 to 20, Folkestone Airshow, which is also on August 20, and the Clacton Airshow on August 24 and 25.

Echo: One of the iconic arrivals todayOne of the iconic arrivals today (Image: Simon Murdoch)

The iconic Red Arrows are set to arrive at Southend Airport on Saturday, August 19, however the aircraft were forced to cancel their Eastbourne display today due to a technical issue.

The airport will be going live on Facebook at 7.45pm as they stream the Red Arrows' landing.

Echo: The BBMF aircraft arrived this afternoonThe BBMF aircraft arrived this afternoon (Image: Simon Murdoch)

These photos all taken by Simon Murdoch show the first arrivals as Southend Airport welcomes the aircraft this week.

This year, Southend Airport has confirmed it will not hold any events or offer ramp tours to aviation fans as they play host to the planes, due to safety precautions amid the growth in their commercial operations with airline partner easyJet.

Echo: No events are planned at the airport as its hosts the RAF aircraft this yearNo events are planned at the airport as its hosts the RAF aircraft this year (Image: Simon Murdoch)

A spokesman shared this afternoon: "Please note that we are not hosting public access tours this year; public safety is of the utmost importance, as is maintaining and adhering to strict safety and security regulations around the aircraft and airfield whilst commercial operations continue to take place.

"We understand that people will want to view the planes, regardless of the above. With that in mind, we are sharing an approximate timetable of their arrival, as below. If you do choose to visit the airport site, please do not put ladders against the perimeter fence and ensure litter is cleared/taken home with you.

"Any form of abuse towards airport staff will not be tolerated. Car parks are open as normal, but you will be expected to pay the regular rates."