Unique Bomber Joins Air Tattoo Stars
The legendary Vulcan bomber will be among the stars at next month’s Royal International Air Tattoo when it demonstrates its grace and immense power during the airshow’s seven-and-a-half-hour flying display at RAF Fairford on July 16-17.
The Vulcan, one of the most iconic warbirds of the Cold War era, was restored to flying condition in 2008 following a massive £7 million public campaign. Fundraising continues to keep the aircraft in the air each year and it remains one of the most popular flying displays during the UK airshow season.
Vulcan XH558, which was built in 1960, enjoyed a 33-year career in the RAF, including service during the Falklands War. Along with the Valiant and the Victor, the three aircraft comprised the Royal Air Force’s legendary V-bomber force, designed to protect the UK from nuclear threat from the 1950s to the 1980s. It is the only flying Vulcan bomber in the world. Next year will mark the Vulcan’s 60th anniversary after first flying on August 30, 1952.
Air Tattoo Chief Executive Mr Tim Prince said few aircraft could rival the Vulcan’s iconic design and raw power.
He said: “Whenever the Vulcan displays there’s a tangible sense of excitement amongst the crowd. Like Concorde, you feel you are witnessing something quite special when you see it roar along the runway and start to take off. It’s simply awe-inspiring.”
This summer’s Air Tattoo will be marking its 40th anniversary and hosting a gathering of specially-decorated ‘Tiger’ aircraft from the NATO Tiger Association. ‘Tiger’ aircraft come from NATO squadrons that have a Tiger or Big Cat in their emblem and their association marks its 50th anniversary in 2011. The ‘operational’ spotlight STAR 11 will focus on aircraft and equipment involved in the roles of Strike, Attack and Reconnaissance.
Nine aerobatic display teams from around the world will be performing in the flying display along with aircraft from countries including the US, Oman, Turkey, Sweden Italy, Austria, Denmark and Jordan. On Sunday, visitors will also be able to see a one-off lunchtime performance by X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke.
Tickets are available by visiting www.airtattoo.com or calling 0800 107 1940. All tickets must be purchased in advance. All accompanied under-16s go free.
