UK Airshow News – Page 51

Super Hornet To Create Airshow Buzz

RIAt Super Hornet

Boeing has announced that it will be displaying its powerful Super Hornet on the Saturday and Sunday of the Royal International Air Tattoo, July 12-13, 2014.

The multi-role fighter, originally developed for the United States Navy but now also in service with the Royal Australian Air Force, has appeared several times at the Air Tattoo in two-seat F/A-18F form since its debut in 2004.

Once again, its manufacturer Boeing will lease a US Navy example for the RIAT 2014 flying displays. It will offer a rare chance for a British audience to witness at close quarters the power and manoeuvrability of the Super Hornet, a development of the earlier F/A-18 Hornet that will itself be displayed at the Air Tattoo this year by the Swiss Air Force.

The single-seat F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F are both combat-proven aircraft from operations by the US Navy in theatres such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

Boeing test pilots have put on some exciting displays in the Super Hornet at previous Air Tattoos, and 2014 will be no exception. Their efforts have featured several times in the RIAT flying display awards, showing the qualities that make the F/A-18E and F so popular with service pilots.

Air Tattoo spokesman Richard Arquati said: “The Super Hornet is an outstanding display aircraft, rarely seen at British events. I am sure that the Boeing test pilots will show its capabilities to fine effect.”

The Air Tattoo is staged annually in support of the RAF Charitable Trust. Tickets for the event are only available in advance.

Specially-priced Earlybird tickets for next summer’s Air Tattoo are available until May 31 from www.airtattoo.com or by calling 0800 107 1940. All accompanied under-16s go free. Free parking.

Photo credit: Ben Dunnell

RAF line-up confirmed for Wings & Wheels 10th Show

BBMF Wings & Wheels

Plans for the 10th annual Wings & Wheels have got off to a flying start with confirmation from the RAF that the Red Arrows, Tucano and Tutor as well as iconic legends from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane – will all be part of the weekend’s aviation line-up.

The Red Arrows are celebrating their 50th display season this year and recently unveiled a striking new Union flag tail design to their Hawk aircrafts, the most significant change to the look of the Team’s famous aircraft in its history. Headlining the Show on Sunday 24th August, the Red Arrows will also help Wings & Wheels celebrate 40 years since the Hawk first flew from the Aerodrome.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director, Wings & Wheels comments: “We are delighted to confirm the RAF’s allocation at Wings & Wheels this year which is just the start of a series of announcements for our air and motoring programmes. The Show and airfield celebrate some very special anniversaries this year and plans are underway to make it the best event yet.”

As well as enjoying RAF aircraft in action, visitors to this summer’s Show will also get the opportunity to meet some of the pilots and crew, watch over two hours of motoring action on the Top Gear track and participate in the Zones and shows throughout the Arena.

The 10th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th August 2014, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Tickets start from £20 for adults, £45 for a family (2 adults and 3 children aged 5 – 15yrs), £6 for children aged between 5 and 15yrs and under 5s are free. Hospitality packages start from £150 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2014 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

The Red Arrows are coming: official

THE famous RAF Red Arrows aerobatic team will be the star performer on the first day of Folkestone Airshow, Saturday, June 7, it has been announced by organiser Open Air Promotions Ltd. To round off an exciting day, the Folkestone-based event management company is also to stage a spectacular live concert on Folkestone seafront.

Said project manager Yvonne Holder: “It’s wonderful news that Folkestone has been included in this year’s displays by the Red Arrows. The team is in great demand by air show organisers all over the country. Its appearances, of course, are subject to operational requirements.

“A fantastic line-up of military and other aircraft has been assembled to thrill residents and visitors during the Airshow weekend. As well as ‘The Reds’, it includes a Lancaster and two Spitfires of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Tucano and Grob Tutor aerobatic planes and the Breitling Wingwalkers, the only formation wingwalking team in the world.

“And that’s not all. Starting at 7pm, we are presenting ABBA Björn Again plus multi-instrumentalist star Chris Andre plus a grand firework finale. It’ll be an evening to remember. Ticket information is posted on www.folkestoneairshow.com“.

The timetable of events in the air and programme of displays, exhibitions, entertainment and activities to be held on the Leas and in the harbour area on June 7 and 8will be announced shortly.

Shepway District Council leader Cllr David Monk said: “I am pleased that the Red Arrows are coming back to thrill us with their breathtaking aerobatic display. The district council and Folkestone Town Council have again made funds available to pay for the Red Arrows display”.

RAF Announces Air Tattoo Highflyers

RIAT Typhoon display

The Royal International Air Tattoo was given a boost this week after the RAF announced which aircraft would be starring along with the Red Arrows in this summer’s flying programme.

Legendary aircraft such as the Lancaster, Spitfire, Hurricane and Dakota will be joined by the RAF’s state of the art multi-role combat aircraft, the Typhoon and the basic trainer aircraft, the Tucano on Saturday July 12 and Sunday July 13. The Typhoon and Tucano will also be flying on Friday, July 11, as part of the special Red Arrows Pit Day.

The power and agility of the Typhoon makes it one of the most eagerly anticipated performers at the airshow. Piloting the multi-role combat aircraft in 2014 will be Flt Lt Noel Rees from 29 (Reserve) Squadron based at RAF Coningsby.

Demonstrating the capabilities of the Tucano,which provides basic fastjet flying training to RAF and Royal Navy student pilots, will be Flt Lt Dave Kirby. The aircraft, which features the Royal British Legion logo, poppies and the words ‘Lest we Forget’, is operated from No 1 Flying Training School, at RAF Linton-on-Ouse.

As well as enjoying RAF aircraft in action, visitors to this summer’s Air Tattoo will be able to get close to a wide range of RAF aircraft parked in the Showground. There will also be the opportunity to meet many of the pilots and crew.

Air Tattoo Chief Executive Tim Prince said that once again, the RAF has demonstrated the immense value it sees in the airshow, in terms of public engagement opportunities and international diplomacy.”

He said: “The Air Tattoo provides the Royal Air Force with a unique platform on which to highlight the capability of its aircraft and the dedication and skill of all those who fly, maintain and support them. Not only will airshow visitors will be able to see the RAF’s operational aircraft and those from the BBMF that have earned legendary status but they will also be able to join us for the biggest international celebration marking the Red Arrows’ 50th display season.”

The Air Tattoo is staged annually in support of the RAF Charitable Trust. Tickets for the event are only available in advance. Specially-priced Earlybird tickets for next summer’s Air Tattoo, on July 11-13, are available until May 31 from www.airtattoo.com or by calling 0800 107 1940. All accompanied under-16s go free. Free parking.

Red Arrows Confirmed For All Four Days Of The 2014 Bournemouth Air Festival

18th February 2014: It’s officially a first for the Bournemouth Air Festival, but the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows have confirmed today they will be displaying at on all 4-days of the much anticipated summer event.

Jon Weaver, Air Festival Director said; “We’ve only found out today and can’t believe we have been allocated the Red Arrows for all 4days of the Air Festival, its incredible news. For us as a Festival, the organisers, teams of people behind the event and the hundreds of thousands of people who attend, it really shows how far we have come to have such superb RAF support. We have great plans to develop this year’s festival and with news like this – it can only get better!”

It’s a momentous year for the Reds as they celebrate their 50th display season and with this a recently unveiled new tailfin design. The makeover is the most significant change to the look of the Team’s famous aircraft in its history. In the shape of a Union flag, the striking new tail design reflects the Best of British and emphasises the Red Arrows’ role as ambassadors for the United Kingdom and as the public face of the Royal Air Force.

Timings are yet to be confirmed, more information will be released at the Air Festival launch event at the end of March – www.bournemouthair.co.uk

Air Show Ticket Sales Flying High

Cosford ticket advert

Tickets for this year’s RAF Cosford Air Show have only been on sale for a few days but are already selling fast; this year with ticket numbers capped you will need to get in early to guarantee your tickets.

Air Show spokesman Amanda Butcher said “Last year saw our biggest ever crowd which put unacceptable pressure on the local roads causing delays. To prevent this happening again we will be putting a cap on ticket sales, this could mean that we will not have any available on the day if advance sales continue at the present rate.”

Visitors to the website will also be able to view details of the hospitality enclosures, offering a range of packages to suit all budgets. This also has information on the “The Cosford Club” a dedicated crowd line enclosure designed to keep guests close to the action with an unrestricted view and providing private toilet facilities and refreshment outlets.

Other attractions include something for the whole family with over five hours of flying displays, craft fair, interactive indoor exhibitions and an arena as well as plenty of rides and other activities for children.

Standard air show tickets can be purchased online at www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or by calling the 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (calls cost 10p per minute plus network charges). Advance tickets are priced from £20, representing a 20 per cent discount on tickets bought on the day (£25 subject to availability). There’s FREE car parking and FREE admission for all under-16s accompanied by an adult.

All profits made from the RAF Cosford Air Show are donated to local and Service charities.

Canberra PR9 to display at Abingdon Air & Country Show

The iconic and celebrated Canberra XH134, the world’s only airworthy PR9, will join an array of aviation acts, including the Breitling Wingwalkers, Trig Team and a P40 Kittyhawk, at the Abingdon Air & Country Show on Sunday 4th May.

In her first scheduled airshow of the year, XH134 will perform a revised display, showcasing the exceptional PR9 capabilities, under the skilled piloting of Sqn Ldr Dave Piper and Flt Lt Mike Leckey. Incorporating a variety of impressive manoeuvres, visitors will be captivated by the power and noise of XH134.

Designed as the RAF’s first jet bomber, the Canberra had an exceptional career spanning 55 years of active service, before retiring from operations in July 2006. Following an extensive restoration by C2 Aviation, XH134 unveiled the striking new silver colour scheme of the Midair Squadron in September 2013, and will be flanked by two Hawker Hunters as the 2014 season progresses.

Aircraft owner, Michael Davis, explains, “The refined PR9 display showcases XH134 in all her glory. Demonstrating the sheer power and capabilities of the photo reconnaissance aircraft, it is a pleasure to introduce XH134 back to the display circuit.”

Speaking of the new air display, Sqn Ldr Dave Piper comments, “It is an honour to fly such an internationally recognised aircraft, in front of crowds who have supported her restoration from the outset.”

The annual Abingdon Air & Country show, located at Abingdon Airfield, is staged to raise money for the Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance Trust, donating over £45,000 since 2007. Over 9,000 visitors are expected this year.

www.abingdonfayre.com

Swiss Turn Airshow Into Joint Celebration

Patrouille Suisse

The Swiss Air Force has ensured the Red Arrows won’t be the only aerobatic display team celebrating an aviation landmark at this summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford on July 11-13.

It has announced plans to send their aerobatic display team, the Patrouille Suisse, in their 50th anniversary year, along with an F-18 Hornet and Super Puma helicopter to take part in the Air Tattoo’s flying display.

Air Tattoo organiserssaid that official celebrations markingthe 50th display season of the Red Arrows would also include the Patrouille Suisse in order that their anniversary was also recognised.

Formed in 1964, the team fly six F-5E Tiger IIs painted in a bright colour scheme that incorporates the red and white of the Swiss national flag. The pilots, who are all volunteers from various frontline squadrons, are famed worldwide for performing precise formations at high speed.

Air Tattoo spokesman Richard Arquati said that as an international celebration of aviation,it was important thatthe Air Tattoo recognised important anniversaries being celebrated by other participatingair arms.

He said: “The Swiss have particular cause to celebrate this year. Not only is it the 50th anniversary of the Patrouille Suissebut it is also the 25th anniversary of their PC-7 aerobatic display team. On top of that, the Swiss Air Force will also be marking the 100th anniversary of military aviation in their country. Given all these anniversaries, we’re really pleased that the Swiss have agreed to support our airshow in such an incredible way.”

The Swiss Air Force have been regular visitors to the Air Tattoo since first attending the airshow at RAF Greenham Common in 1979 with the Patrouille Suisse. Then, the team flew six Hawker Hunter F-58s before switching to their current Northrop F-5E Tiger II jets in 1995. Accompanying the display team on their first visit was a Swiss Air Force de Havilland Venom FB.4, which was presented as a gift, to the Royal Air Force Museum.

This summer could be one of the last times the Patrouille Suisse perform in the UK after it was announced last year that the team would be disbanded in 2016 due to the withdrawal of the F-5 from Swiss Air Force service.

Specially-priced Super Earlybird tickets for next summer’s Air Tattoo, on July 11-13, are available until the end of January from www.airtattoo.com or by calling 0800 107 1940. All accompanied under-16s go free. Free parking.

Official Launch Event of Folkestone Airshow 2014

Folkestone airshow launch top gun

Folkestone Airshow will return on 7th and 8th of June 2014 to be even bigger and better than ever before. However, this year we will be running additional events in advance to raise funding and awareness. The first of these exciting events is an Open Air Drive-In showing of the 1986 film, Top Gun.

On the Saturday 29 March 2014, the Rotunda site on Folkestone sea front will be transformed into a Drive-In Cinema, complete with 30ft screen, food served to your car and surprise entertainment. And best of all, it’s free.

Book your tickets now at www.openairpromotions.eventbrite.co.uk.

This will be a fun event for the whole family. Please book your ticket in advance, to avoid disappointment, as this event has a limited capacity.

Open Air Promotions Ltd will be collecting funds for Folkestone Airshow 2014 at the event, which will go towards the People’s Flying Display. All funds raised for the People’s Flying Display will help us to bring the Breitling WingWalkers to Folkestone Airshow, and everyone who donates can see their contribution as the Aerobatic Team wow the crowds; filling the skies with amazing flying manoeuvres and showing their aerobatic abilities.

Wings & Wheels celebrates 10th anniversary

Dunsfold Airshow crowds

The sensational summer event for the whole family, Wings & Wheels, returns on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th August 2014 at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey (home to BBC’s Top Gear) to celebrate its 10th show. Famous favourites in the air and on the ground will blow your mind, whilst the attractions and Zones in the Arena will keep you entertained and buzzing with delight the WHOLE weekend.

Eyes to the sky as the ‘Wings’ of the event treats visitors to outstanding and diverse 5 hour air displays which have previously included show favourites the Red Arrows, Avro Vulcan, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Spitfire, Lancaster, Hurricane), Typhoon, Chinook, Tucano, RN Swordfish and Sea Fury, Apache Attack Helicopter, RN Lynx Black Cat Solo Helicopter Display, Team Breitling Wingwalkers, Glider FX and the Blades accompanied by witty and knowledgeable commentary from aviation experts and display pilots (please note the air display will be confirmed in March).

The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekend’s visiting aircraft and Dunsfold’s resident Boeing 747 in the ‘Wings Park’ (open for tours).

You don’t need to be a petrolhead to delight in the ‘Wheels’ of the show as the paddock gleams and the sound of finely tuned engines fill the air. Supercars and classic and vintage icons put on an awe-inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a 2 hour auto spectacular from Brooklands Museum. Included among the 360 entrants in 2013 were Porsche 911, Dodge Monaco, TVR Tasmin 280i, Ducati Mutistrada 1200s, Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, Ford GT40, Lotus Elise 49 and the stunning Benetton F1 B190.

The Wheels Zone features interactive displays from clubs and a crowd line parade whilst the Stunt Zone squeals with the sound of two and four wheeled hair-raising performances.

The Military Zone & Paddock adds some classic nostalgia to the ‘Wheels’, as the regal Military Vehicles complete a cavalcade for spectators before taking their place in the Zone’s living history and re-enactment displays including live battles.

The excitement and anticipation doesn’t stop at the main displays as the 32 acre public arena is bursting with a huge variety of interactive attractions containing all you need for a great family day out. The Hot Rod Zone hosts live rockabilly music, themed retail outlets and a stunning display of nostalgic and ‘kustom’ Hot Rod vehicles. The show arena also boasts laser quest, paintballing, kit-plane demonstrations, aviation and motoring simulators, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, fairground, emergency services demonstration and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts.

As the last plane touches down the party starts across the arena with a mix of musical evening entertainment. Swing, big band and jazz takes over the Military Zone, in the Wheels Zone is a mix of Rock n Roll, Doowop and Rockabilly and finally, taking centre stage in the middle of the Arena, is a covers band with something for everyone.

Taking the hassle out of your day the show includes added extras to make your experience even more enjoyable; over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, 2 bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, a raffle, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2014 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.