UK Airshow News – Page 58

Fly Folkestone campaign ready for take-off

FOLKESTONE AIRSHOW, planned to be ‘bigger and better’ than the event which made a successful come-back after nine years last June, was officially launched on Wednesday, January 23. Brand-named ‘Fly Folkestone – Turn a Memorable Day Out into a Wonderful Weekend’.

Representatives from local authorities, business and community organisations gathered at The Grand Hotel, Folkestone, to hear Project Manager Yvonne Holder outline the proposals for this year’s event and to listen to a keynote speech from Visit Kent Chairman Amanda Cottrell, OBE.

Organised by the Folkestone Town Centre Management Ltd and with support from local public authorities and aviation agencies, launched Fly Folkestone the collective name for the 3 day fun-filled event from Friday 7th June to Sunday 9th June inclusive.

The Flying display on Saturday 8th June will be supported by an action-packed week-end programme of ground events, activities and entertainment on the Leas, in the Harbour area.

This year it is hoped to attract 100,000 visitors (almost double last year’s figure) with significant numbers being expected from the Continent. There is a potential to generate £12.6 million for the local economy.

Fly Folkestone is totally committed to a “Buy Local” ethos, supporting local businesses and contracting local suppliers wherever possible.

Become a Friends of Folkestone Airshow – VIP Package

Why not become a Friend and receive an exclusive VIP package including;

Complimentary Official Souvenir Programme
Reserved seat on the chequer board (roof of Leas Cliff Hall)
Complimentary drink upon arrival
Afternoon tea finger buffet
Meet Keith Wilson (author of “Red Arrows in camera”)
Purchase “Red Arrows in camera” at special discounted price

£55 per person, buy 2 for £100 and save £10.

www.folkestoneairshow.com

Air Tattoo Is On Top Of The World

One of the most widely-read newspapers in the United States has featured the Royal International Air Tattoo among its top 10 best airshows in the world.

USA Today, which has more than 2 million readers, listed the Air Tattoo alongside other aviation events in Canada, Germany, Florida and Nevada.

It stated: “The Royal International Air Tattoo should top your list of must-see events. RIAT includes in-air performances, two miles of stationary aircraft to check out and interactive activities for visitors of all ages.”

The full list is: Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford, Gloucestershire; Florida International Air Show, US; EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Wisconsin, US; Sun ‘n’ Fun International Fly-in, Florida, US; Tannkosh, Germany; Reno Air Races, Nevada, US; Miramar Air Show, San Diego, US; Abbotsford Airshow, Canada; Great Tennessee Air Show, US; Bournemouth Air Festival, UK.

Earlier this year, a leading UK aviation website – UK Airshow Review – announced that the Air Tattoo had provided six of the Top 10 airshow moments of 2012.

Air Tattoo spokesman Richard Arquati said it was great to know that the Air Tattoo’s reputation stretches across the Atlantic and is recognised as a truly global event not only by aircraft enthusiasts but also by the wider public.

He added: “Our aim is to create a memorable family day out that blends all the thrills of a seven-hour flying display with an exciting range of interactive entertainment on the ground.”

Tickets for this summer’s Air Tattoo, which takes place at RAF Fairford on July 20-21, can be purchased online at www.airtatoo.com or by calling the Ticketline on 0800 107 1940.

Cosford Club Snaps Up Major Photographic Sponsor

Following on from the exciting announcement of the brand new hospitality and enthusiast enclosures at the 2013 RAF Cosford 75th Anniversary Air Show, organisers have unveiled that Nikon will officially sponsor the exclusive “The Cosford Club”.

The Cosford Club is a keenly anticipated feature to this year’s air show, providing a dedicated crowd line enclosure designed to keep guests close to the action with an unrestricted view of the flying display and providing private toilet facilities and refreshment outlets.

Guests to The Cosford Club will also enjoy the opportunity to trial some of the newest Nikon equipment available. Photographs taken whilst trying out the Nikon products can be downloaded instantly via the stand and even entered into the air show photographic competition with an exclusive prize up for grabs. They will also have a demonstration stand in the public trade area to raise awareness of the latest Nikon technology.

One lucky member of The Cosford Club will be chosen at random to win an amazing “day in the life of…” behind the scenes at RAF Cosford including the opportunity to ride in the back of a taxiing Jaguar T2 jet aircraft. For further information about how to become a member of the exclusive The Cosford Club then visit the official air show website at www.cosfordairshow.co.uk.

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

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

Green Light for Reds at RAF Cosford

RAF Cosford’s 75th Anniversary Air Show is extremely pleased to announce that the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, has been nominated to attend the event on Sunday 9th June.

Regularly acknowledged as one of the World’s premier aerobatic teams, the Red Arrows return to their usual 9-ship formation this year in what promises to be a spectacular display for their 49th season.

Air show spokesman Master Aircrew Chas McHugh said: “We are delighted that the Red Arrows have nominated us as one of the displays they will perform during this year’s season. The Reds inspire and enthral millions of people every year and we are very excited that such an iconic team has chosen to share the experience with us during such a special anniversary year for RAF Cosford.”

Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to enjoy the Red Arrows, along with many other aircraft during the 5½ hour flying display, from one of the new hospitality enclosures which have been introduced for the 2013 show. For details of the range of packages available to suit all requirements and budgets, please visit the air show website www.cosfordairshow.co.uk.

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

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

Love is… A Vulcan at the Air Tattoo

If aircraft received Valentine’s Day cards then Vulcan XH558, which has just been confirmed for this summer’s Royal International Air Tattoo in the Cotswolds, would be inundated today!

That’s the belief of the airshow organisers who have chosen Valentine’s Day to announce the participation of an iconic aircraft that continues to inspire strong feelings of passion among its army of supporters.

Vulcan XH558 is the only flying example of this large Cold War bomber in the world having been restored to flying condition in 2007 following a public fundraising campaign by the Vulcan to the Sky Trust (VTTS) that helped raise more than £7 million.

The appeal of the delta-winged Vulcan owes as much to its curvaceous design as it does its sheer size and power. In the air, its thunderous yet graceful display is one of the most eagerly-anticipated on the UK airshow circuit.

As well as watching its display at RAF Fairford on July 20-21, visitors will be able to visit the Vulcan Village within the Air Tattoo’s Vintage Zone to find out more about the aircraft and talk to members of the aircrew.

Air Tattoo Chief Executive Tim Prince said: “It was people’s love for the Vulcan and their desire to see it fly again that enabled the incredible fundraising team to do the impossible and bring this amazing aircraft back to flying condition.”

VTTS Director Michael Trotter said that whilst he hoped Vulcan XH558 would appear at many more Air Tattoos, there was a possibility that this may be her last one. He said: “The engineering team is working with leading aviation industry specialists to ensure that XH558 can continue flying for as long as possible, but there are complex technical issues to be resolved.

“The Air Tattoo audience is substantial and very appreciative. We are always asked if we will be at Fairford as it is important both in the UK and for the aircraft’s overseas supporters, many of whom come over specially to see her fly at the airshow.”

The Air Tattoo is the world’s greatest airshow and is staged in support of the RAF Charitable Trust. July’s event will feature a thrilling seven-hour flying display, a large static aircraft park and a wide range of interactive family entertainment. For a full list of all the visitor opportunities and to purchase Earlybird tickets, visit www.airtattoo.com – all under-16s go free.

Sensational Family Event Wings & Wheels Returns

The unmissable, sensational summer event for the whole family, Wings & Wheels, returns on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th August 2013 at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey (home to BBC’s Top Gear). *NEW* attractions will blow your mind and famous favourites in the air and on the ground 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 has historically included show favourites the Red Arrows, Avro Vulcan, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Team Breitling Wingwalkers, accompanied by witty and knowledgeable commentary from aviation experts and display pilots. The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekends visiting aircraft and Dunsfold’s resident Boeing 747 in the ‘Wings Park’.

You don’t need to be a petrol head to delight in the ‘Wheels’ of the show as the paddock gleams with perfect paintwork and the deep murmur and reverberation of finely tuned engines fills 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.

We’ve revamped our Wheels Zone which features interactive displays from clubs and a *NEW* crowd line parade. The Stunt Zone not only returns with fast action figure of eights, entwined donuts, a battle competition and rally driving drift display, but hosts gravity defying demonstrations of balance, back flips and somersaults in some hair raising pyrotechnic stunt performances proving two wheels are just as dramatic as four!

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

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 1940s Zone will swing to the beat of jive dancing master-classes, while 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, kids driving, paintballing, kit-plane demonstrations, aviation and motoring simulators, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, a Wall of Death, fairground, emergency services demonstration and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts.

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.

The 9th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th August 2013, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 18:00.

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 £65 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 with proceeds going to nominated charities: Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

Blades Just the Ticket For Air Show

As tickets start to go on sale today for this summer’s Cosford Air Show, organisers have unveiled the first aircraft to take part in the thrilling six-hour flying display.

The Blades aerobatic display team, who perform their breathtaking manoeuvres around the world, have confirmed they will be among a number of star attractions at the air show on Sunday, June 9, joining celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the West Midlands’ RAF station.

During their display, the four pilots, all former members of the RAF Red Arrows, perform 30 separate manoeuvres in their high-performance Extra EA-300s.

The announcement comes on the same day tickets for the popular Royal Air Force airshow go on sale (February 1). Last year more than 38,000 people attended the air show and organisers are anticipating another bumper turn-out at the West Midlands’ largest aviation event.

Air show spokesman Amanda Butcher said: “To mark RAF Cosford’s 75th anniversary, we are working on a special opening sequence to the flying display which I am sure the crowd will enjoy. Visitors will also be able to view a wide range of ground exhibits and displays demonstrating the various activities carried out at the Shropshire base since 1938.”

Visitors to the website will also be able to view details of the new hospitality enclosures, offering a range of packages to suit all budgets. This includes information on the keenly-anticipated “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.

One lucky member of The Cosford Club will be chosen at random to win an amazing “day in the life of…” behind the scenes at RAF Cosford including the opportunity to ride in the back of a taxiing Jaguar T2 jet aircraft. Details of pricing and further information can be found on the official air show website.

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

Jupiter enters Air Tattoo orbit

By Jove! Organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in the Cotswolds have just been told how the Colombian Air Force intends to trump its historic and colourful participation at last summer’s airshow.

The South American country says it is planning to send one of its latest – and largest – military aircraft, a KC-767 ‘Jupiter’ tanker/transporter, to the Air Tattoo on July 20-21. The aircraft will come from 811 Transport Squadron based in the country’s capital, Bogota.

Last year, the Colombian Air Force made its European airshow debut at the Air Tattoo, sending two aircraft: a small T-90 Calima trainer and a colourfully-painted C-130H Hercules on the 5,200-mile trip to the UK.

Colombia has one of the best equipped and trained air forces in South America and, among its many roles, plays an important part in fighting drug-related terrorism.

Air Tattoo Chief Executive Tim Prince said: “Last year, the Colombians sent one of the most eye-catching aircraft we have seen at the Air Tattoo for a long while and we wait with bated-breath to see what touches down in July!

“It’s not every year that we get the opportunity to welcome aircraft from South America. I’m delighted that they found last summer’s visit to us so valuable and enjoyable that they are keen to make the long journey once again – with an even more exciting aircraft.”

RAF Delivers Air Tattoo Xmas Gift

Organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo have described news of the Royal Air Force’s plans for next summer’s airshow as an exciting, early Christmas present.

In a letter to the organisers this week, the RAF outlined an ambitious programme of involvement at the Air Tattoo, which takes place at RAF Fairford, in the heart of the Cotswolds, on July 20 & 21, 2013.

The RAF’s Air Command said it hoped to send a flying VC-10 transport aircraft and TriStar air-to-air tanker plus a C-17, A330 ‘Voyager’ and C-130J/K Hercules for either the flying display or static park.

Other RAF aircraft earmarked for the airshow include a Tornado, Search & Rescue Sea King helicopter, the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The RAF said it also supported plans by the airshow organisers to bring together all the Typhoon operators of the world in line with its operational theme SkyGuardian.

A number of potential, exciting set pieces for the flying display were also suggested by the Royal Air Force, but airshow organisers said they were keeping these under wraps until next year.

Air Tattoo Chief Executive Tim Prince said: “Though we shall have to wait until spring to receive official confirmation of exactly which RAF aircraft will be attending, it’s great to receive such positive news so early.

“It is important for us to make sure that the Air Tattoo provides the most effective engagement opportunity for the Royal Air Force because of the incredible support they give us each year. Having knowledge of their plans so early on is fantastic and gives us a great head start with our planning. It was like receiving an early Christmas present!”

People planning to visit the Air Tattoo next summer have until Sunday, January 6 to take advantage of a specially-priced Super Earlybird ticket, which offers a saving of 33 per cent on the price of admission. For full details, visit www.airtattoo.com

Duxford 2013 Air Shows

We are delighted to announce our air show season for 2013.

Tickets for all air shows are now on sale, in good time to solve all your Christmas present dilemmas!

Plus, we’ve got a fantastic Early Bird offer running until Thursday 28 February 2013 – receive a 15%discount plus a free child ticket with every adult or senior ticket purchased in advance.

If you’re purchasing tickets for Christmas presents, we recommend that you make your purchases byTuesday 18 December for UK delivery.

Spring Air Show

Remembering the Mighty Eighth

Sunday 26May

Starting the air show season in spectacular style, the Spring Air Show brings together contemporary and historic aircraft for a fabulous day of flying.

This year, the Spring Air Show commemorates the 70th anniversary of the United States Army Air Force arriving at RAF Duxford in April 1943. We’ll look at the impact of the American Forces on the course of the Second World War in Europe and their cultural influence on the East Anglian community.

Historic US warbirds will take to the skies as we remember the time when the stars and stripes flew at RAF Duxford.

Flying Legends Air Show

Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July

A worldwide following has ensured that the Flying Legends Air Show is the heritage air show event in the aviation calendar. Each of the historic aircraft on display at the Flying Legends Air Show is a living tribute to the outstanding skills of the people who built,maintained and flew themand to the dedication of those who have brought these stunning aircraft back to life.

The Flying Legends Air Show presents these iconic aircraft in a spectacular display that honours their history and aerial achievements. The flying display promises an unmissable fusion of power, sound, excitement and nostalgia as a series of rare and unique piston-engined aircraft perform their breathtaking flights over the historic airfield at IWM Duxford.

The Early Bird offer does not apply to the Flying Legends Air Show.

The Duxford Air Show

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September

The Duxford Air Show is the highlight of our programme of flying events, featuring an amazing array of aerial displays. We showcase contemporary jet aircraft, historic warbirds, aerobatics and much more!

With rare combinations of aircraft and show-stopping performances, The Duxford Air Show is a truly entertaining aerial spectacle.

Autumn Air Show

Sunday 13 October

The Autumn Air Show closes the flying season in relaxed and informal style.

We’ll be throwing the spotlight on the historic aeroplanes that are operated by flying partners based at the museum, with displays by some of the iconic aircraft that call IWM Duxford home.

Join us for a celebration of IWM Duxford’s flying heritage, which continues to thrive today.

Early Bird Offer

We’re offering a marvellous Early Bird discount of 15%on IWM Duxford 2013 air show tickets. The Early Bird offer is available until Thursday 28 February 2013. After this date, the normal advance purchase discount of 10% applies.

Tickets can be purchased online at iwm.org.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01223 499 353. The Box Office is open from Monday to Friday from9.30amto 4.30pm.

There is no booking fee but a postage and packing fee applies per transaction.
Please note that the Early Bird offer does not apply to the Flying Legends Air Show (Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July 2013).

Air show tickets will be on sale in advance until:

Spring Air Show

Recommended booking date for overseas postal delivery is Thursday 2 May

Closing date for UK postal delivery is Monday 13 May

Flying Legends Air Show

Recommended booking date for overseas postal delivery is Thursday 20 June

Closing date for UK postal delivery is Monday 1 July

The Duxford Air Show

Recommended booking date for overseas postal delivery is Thursday 15 August

Closing date for UK postal delivery is Monday 26 August

Autumn Air Show

Recommended booking date for overseas postal delivery is Thursday 19 September

Closing date for UK postal delivery is Monday 30 September

VIP Packages for the Flying Legends Air Show

Enjoy a choice of two very special air show experiences with our unique range of hospitality passes which offer the best seats in the house at the Flying Legends Air Show (Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July 2013).

The Bremont Flight Lounge, only available at the Flying Legends Air Show, provides guests with an elegant and luxurious location at the heart of the flying action. Join your guests in the tastefully themed luxury marquee where you can enjoy the very best of hospitality, commencing with a champagne and canapé reception, followed by a gourmet delicatessen-style buffet and concluding with a traditional English afternoon cream tea.

Sit back in the comfort and style of the Bremont Flight Lounge garden andmarvel at our world-famous flying display.

Gold Pass offers relaxed entertaining at its best. Enjoy a fine view of the flying action and access to a fully equipped hospitality marquee. Choose a delicious dish fromour in-house Gourmet Deli Bar or bring your own picnic lunch and relax in comfort as you watch the flying display from the heart of the flight line.

Gold Pass can be purchased online at iwm.org.uk.

Flying Legends – two words which instantly evoke the very best of classic aircraft displaying atIWM Duxford in one of the world’s most celebrated air shows.

For further details on the Bremont Flight Lounge, please email: flyvip@fighter-collection.com

VIP Packages for The Duxford Air Show

Enjoy a very special air show experience with our range of hospitality passes which offer the best seats in the house at The Duxford Air Show (Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 2013).

Our PlatinumPass offers seats at the heart of the flying action, together with access to a sumptuous hospitality marquee where you can enjoy a delectable two-course lunch before enjoying a thrilling flying display from the comfort of a private garden enclosure. Platinum Pass is perfect for corporate entertaining or a special family celebration.

Following its successful debut last year, the Silver Pass enclosure is available at The Duxford Air Show 2013. Enjoy all the atmosphere and activities that the air show has to offer from the convenience of the Silver Pass marquee, specifically created with families inmind. There will be activities to entertain all the family and a refreshment point selling drinks and snacks.

Book your Gold or Silver Pass before Thursday 28 February 2013 and enjoy up to £20 off the standard ticket price.

Tickets for Silver, Gold and PlatinumPass can be purchased online at www.iwm.org.uk.