Thousands of people have gathered along Dublin’s quays to attend today’s FlightFest in Dublin. Two R-V7s and an Airbus A330 started the show which has been billed as the biggest fly-past in Irish aviation history.

Despite a heavy downpour an hour before the event the rain has held off but winds remain strong.

Organisers said the best vantage point was along the quays from the Custom House to the O2 arena.

However, the aircraft will also be visible from Dollymount beach and Ringsend for spectators who would prefer to sit in their cars.

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The event has been organised by the Irish Aviation Authority with Dublin City Council as part of the Gathering Ireland celebrations.

Among the aircraft taking part will be two second World War aircraft – a B17 Flying Fortress and a Catalina flying boat – along with jets such as a 1948 F86 Sabre fighter, numerous Air Corps planes and commercial aircraft, including an Airbus A34O owned by Etihad.

The Liffey quays have been pedestrianised between the East Link toll bridge and the Custom House. Adjacent streets are also closed to traffic. The Samuel Beckett bridge is closed to vehicular traffic but is open for pedestrians.

The Sean O’Casey Bridge has been closed to pedestrians for safety reasons and pedestrians will not be allowed to congregate on other bridges. Tara Street Dart station has also been closed, as will the George’s Dock Luas stop. Some Dublin Bus services in the area of North Wall Quay and Sir John Rogerson’s Quay have been rerouted.

Spectators are advised not to drive into the city and are encouraged to come early, as festival events begin at noon with activities including music acts and street performers.