Dates for this year’s Bournemouth Air Festival have been announced, presenting an opportunity for businesses and sponsors to participate in the world’s biggest land and air festival by the sea.

Bournemouth Air Festival, organised by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council, will return on Thursday 29 August – Saturday 31 August this year.

Another jam-packed programme of world-class aerobatic displays will take to the skies, while plenty of entertainment for all ages will be accessible along 1.5 miles of award-winning coastline.

Fairground rides, Pier to Pier trading, fireworks, vintage displays, demonstrations from the Army and Navy, exciting night air displays and plenty more is all to be expected at this year’s festival.

The landmark event is also hoping to inspire budding engineers with an enhanced STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) Village on the beach. Further to its success in 2023, the innovation-inspired village will feature unique demonstrations and displays from industry-leading companies, both local and national.

Across four days, more than 600,000 people attended the last Bournemouth Air Festival. Over 11,000 copies of the official programme were sold; Bournemouth Air Festival social media accounts, which boast a combined following of more than 110,000 people, achieved over 1.8 million engagements; and the dedicated webpage was visited by over 1.4 million users.

Participating brands and sponsors, which have previously included Porsche, Sunseeker, Rowse and Marriott, each benefitted from the equivalent of £3.5 million in advertising value, while the festival itself was detailed in over 1,400 items of coverage from local, national and international media.

BCP Council is now inviting sponsors, traders and exhibitors to come forward to register interest in being part of this year’s festival, which has the largest single audience of any aviation event in Europe.

As only a limited number of spaces are available, we advise registering interest early to avoid disappointment.

Amanda Barrie, Director of Commercial Operations at BCP Council, said:
“With its iconic planes, aerobatics, plentiful entertainment and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere, Bournemouth Air Festival is a fantastic finale to the summer, drawing in crowds far and wide.

“This year we’re planning to make the festival even more memorable; listen out for further announcements regarding the event programme in the coming months.”

Councillor Millie Earl, Portfolio Holder for Tourism at BCP Council, continued:
“Bournemouth Air Festival marks a huge opportunity for sponsors, traders and exhibitors to get in front of consumers, grow and bring fresh eyes to their brand. The festival has the potential to bring a wealth of opportunities, whether your business is local, national or international.

“Whether you choose to sponsor display acts or the STEM Village, take a prime trading location on the cliff or beach, or have your brand featured in the widely sold official festival programme, the event is a chance to make meaningful connections and develop new relationships.”

Since last Summer, BCP Council has prioritised working with businesses and external organisations to operate a collaboratively funded, sustainable festival in 2024.

Looking forward, the council is now inviting expressions of interest from operators to manage and deliver Bournemouth Air Festival in its entirety from 2025 onwards, enabling forward-thinking businesses and organisations to take the lead in continually growing, developing and building the event into a one of a kind ‘Festival of the Air’ spectacle.
Councillor Earl added: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity to run, grow and shape an impactful event that has made a significant contribution to the local tourism economy over its remarkable 16-year history.

“Consistently attracting over half a million visitors, Bournemouth Air Festival boasts an eclectic atmosphere, with day and evening air displays and entertainment attracting a broad demographic. If you think your business could help to grow and develop the festival, and the festival could help you to grow and develop your business, we’d love to hear from you.”

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the business community, council officers and BCP Cabinet members who, amid passionate public appeal, have worked together on these plans to organise a sustainably funded festival this year, and in years moving forward.

“Our area is built on a visitor economy and these plans are about supporting the businesses that depend on the festival with a sustainable, long-term strategy. We also recognise the cultural value it brings in making the area a great place to live, work and play, and I’m excited to see what the future will bring.”

Sponsors, traders and exhibitors who would like to register interest in being part of the festival in 2024, should email Ali Perrins, Event Manager, at alison.perrins@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or apply online here: www.bournemouthair.co.uk/commercial/

www.bournemouthair.co.uk

Every week we will be unveiling new additions to our line-up ahead of this year’s show.

Kicking us off, we have a Spanish Navy Harrier returning to the skies this year after performing its dazzling solo display in 2023. We hope you are as excited as we are to see this incredible piece of aviation history known as the ‘Matador’, perform in July.

In our first static display update, the Finnish Air Force are providing one of their F/A-18C Hornets.
As we celebrate the North Atlantic Treaty Order Organisation (NATO)’s 75th anniversary, we hope to feature a collection of aircraft from NATO nations on the showground, so stay tuned for further announcements.

Adding to our ‘Pushing the Boundaries in Air and Space’ theme, we have an aircraft with a unique purpose, coming in the form of a Twin Otter, operated by the British Antarctic Survey.

From using skis to land, to operating in incredibly harsh conditions whilst undertaking scientific work, the striking aircraft is a must see this summer.

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Award-winning science editor and Times journalist Tom Whipple joins Yeovilton’s Fleet Air Arm Museum for a special lecture on Friday 15 March at 7.30pm to mark British Science Week.

Surrounded by 100 years of naval flying history and Europe’s largest collection of aircraft, Tom will explore his recent book The Battle of the Beams: The secret science of radar that turned the tide of the Second World War in a fascinating account of the radio war of 1939-45, dubbed as one of the great scientific battles in history.

Relying on first-hand accounts, as well as papers recently released by the Admiralty, The Battle of the Beams fills a huge missing piece in the canon of Second World War literature.
It combines history, science, derring do and dogged determination and will appeal as much to fans of Second World War history as to those fascinated by the science behind the beams that changed our lives.
Elliott Bailey, Public Programming Manager at The National Museum of the Royal’s Fleet Air Arm Museum said:
“The use of radar in the Second World War is intertwined with naval history and aviation heritage, and was a pivotal moment in the allied victory.

“In this evening talk, Tom Whipple brings this story to life in a series of entertaining and engaging anecdotes, detailing the history and science of this crucial invention- all drawn from his book”.

For a limited time, visitors can benefit from an early bird discount on tickets to this event. Until 18 February 2024 tickets cost just £12 per person (normal ticket price £15 per person) Tickets to the evening talk include light refreshments (tea and coffee). Doors will open at 7pm, with the event starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are available on the evening or by pre-booking https://www.nmrn.org.uk/events/battle-beams-secret-science-radar

As this event is taking place outside of normal museum opening hours, access to the wider museum will be limited.

Forthcoming events taking place at the Royal Air Force Museum Midlands in 2024:

This year, visitors to the RAF Museum Midlands can expect to see some brand-new additions to the events calendar.

A D-Day Weekend in June filled with live music and entertainment will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Flying Theatre shows will dazzle audiences on the stage and in the air, with daily shows in a pop-up amphitheatre during the six-week summer break! And Spies Week during October half term will see families taking part in Cold War espionage activities and spy shows.

RAF Museum Public Events Executive, Amy Bertaut said:
‘We’ve got an exciting events programme planned this year. Families can enjoy themed activities during each school break in addition to exploring the Museum’s vast collection of aircraft and interactive displays. We’ll be kick-starting the events programme in February half term with Sky’s the Limit, where we’ll be exploring RAF stories through a series of shows, storytelling, and trails. Families visiting us during Easter can enjoy a fortnight of all things STEM with our Space, Race and Fly! event, featuring science shows, a planetarium, and drone races. There really is something for everyone.’

The Museum will hold the annual Remembrance Service in November supported by RAF Cosford personnel and the Cosford Military Wives Choir. In December, the Royal Elf Force will be returning to the Museum with more Elf Cadet Training, where new recruits will take on festive challenges and help Santa with his biggest mission of the year!

For further information on any of the events taking place at the RAF Museum Midlands throughout 2024, visit rafmuseum.org/midlands. Admission charges apply for some events and activities, tickets are available online. Events may be subject to change and additional events may be added during the year.

The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.

www.rafmuseum.org

Savings come to an end on the 31st…

You have until midnight on Wednesday 31st January to grab yourself a discount on tickets or enclosures. Once they are gone, they are gone – so be quick to secure your ticket!
End of all discounted Saturday prices

Saturday Early Bird General Admission tickets will be ending on Wednesday 31st January, going up to full price.
At the same time, our 5% off offers on all Saturday enclosures will also be coming to an end.

We have limited availability on a number of Saturday enclosure upgrades, with many close to selling out. So secure your place now at the best possible price.

https://www.airtattoo.com/tickets-hospitality/hospitality-packages/

Date: 29 January – 29 February 2024 (Registration now open)
Cost: £20 per person / £15.00 Armed Forces entry

If your new year’s resolution is to get active, why not join forces with the RAF Museum for Operation Percy, a brand-new fundraising challenge!

Those taking part in Operation Percy will be challenged to complete 80KM or 80 laps in honour of Percy the Parachuting Penguin, the lucky mascot of Flight Lieutenant Stan Chapman of 158 Squadron Royal Air Force. The challenge will commence on 29 January, exactly 80 years since Stan and Percy’s daring parachute escape from a damaged Halifax Bomber.

Once signed up, participants will each receive a welcome pack and exclusive RAF Museum running T-shirt allowing you to complete the challenge in style. Pledge to fundraise £80 for the RAF Museum, and once you’ve hit your fundraising target you will be rewarded with a limited-edition Operation Percy commemorative coin. Challengers will have until the leap year on 29 February to complete the distance.

Percy is one of several lucky mascots on display at the RAF Museum, each with a remarkable tale to tell. Percy’s story began over Berlin on 29 January 1944, when the Halifax HX333 ‘J Jane’ he was on board was hit by flak and badly damaged. Flt Lt Stan Chapman quickly tucked his lucky mascot, Percy the Penguin, inside his flying jacket and parachuted out. They landed safely and were soon captured by German soldiers and spent the rest of the War as prisoners in Germany. Stan believed Percy was lucky because he and all his crew mates survived being shot down that night. The element of risk involved with flying, especially in wartime, is why over the years aviators try to ward off bad luck by having lucky charms or mascots.

RAF Museum Individual Giving Manager, Sophie Wallace said:
‘Support and fundraising from challengers will help the RAF Museum keep stories like Stan and Percy’s alive and shared for many years to come. Challenges like this are a great way for us to share some of the more unknown stories of the RAF, while raising vital funds. Registrations for Operation Percy are now open, and participants can take part in this virtual challenge anywhere in the world, and run, walk, cycle, or swim their way to victory. Those who want to see the real Percy and find out more about his story can visit the RAF Museum Midlands where he’s on public display.’

Let’s make Percy proud! For more information and to register for Operation Percy visit www.rafmuseum.org.
Entry costs £20 per person and all proceeds go towards supporting the RAF Museum’s mission to preserve the stories of the RAF and the brave men and women who served. Members of the Armed Forces Community (Cadets, serving personnel, veterans, and reservists) can register for the discounted rate of £15.00.

2024 Open Day Schedule:

The 2024 schedule of Heritage Centre openings, which begins on Easter Sunday, is included below:

First Open day – March 31st Easter Sunday

Sunday, 14th of April

Sunday, 28th of April

Sunday, 12th of May

Sunday, 26th of May

Sunday, 9th of June

Sunday, 23rd of June

Sunday, 14th of July

Sunday, 28th of July

Sunday, 11th of August

Sunday, 25th of August

Bank Holiday Monday 26th of August

Sunday, 15th of September

Sunday 29th of September

Sunday 13th of October

Sunday 27th of October

Final Open day November 10th Remembrance Sunday
Note that the Centre will be open from 10am until 4pm on each of these days. Parking and entrance will be Free, and disabled access and toilets will be available.

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The long-term in-depth restoration of the North American Harvard II B in Newark Air Museum’s on site workshop continues and recently work has been undertaken on preparing to refit the restored nose cowlings to the fuselage.

The previous owners had modified the cowling fixtures and fittings, which has been challenging the museum’s team of volunteers. However, a recent glimpse into the Workshop indicates that
progress is being made.

The airframe being restored is 42-12417 (Dutch AF B-163 and RCAF FE930) and the restoration programme is now well underway, with rumours of a potential reassembly being made sometime this year.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

15% off enclosures is now gone… hurry before 10% off goes too
Our 15% off enclosures offer has now ended, however you can still get up to 10% off if you buy your tickets today.

You’ll have to be quick though as we’re selling fast.

Sold Out:
Saturday Cotswold Club
Saturday Aviation Club
Saturday First Class Lounge
Saturday Lightning Pavilion

Others are hot on their heels. So don’t delay get yours today!

www.airtattoo.com/tickets-packages/

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT – Direct from the UK – DEC. 14, 2023 Major Donation from the RAF Museum to the Bomber Command Museum of Canada ”Halifax Project”

As your Curator and Halifax Project Manager we are searching worldwide to recover and restore a Halifax heavy bomber for our national memorial museum, BCMC, in Nanton, Alberta.

It is my pleasure to now announce a great donation by the Royal Air Force Museum – a right-hand Hastings outer wing panel – which is the same design as the Halifax outer wing panels except for the aileron attachment points.

After weeks and months of negotiations between BCMC and the RAF Museum – handled in the main by Harry Raffal – Head of Collections and myself as Halifax Project Manager, this ”new” wing section is a great donation to our project and a BIG leap forward in our progress.

Time constraints were tight just before Christmas but thanks to Harry and his team today we were able to bring this wing out of long-term storage at Cosford and transport it to Thirsk, Yorkshire – all thanks to our crane team and our sponsoring transport company ”POTTER PLANT HIRE” and president Giles.

How do you extract a 25 foot wing weighing 1,900 pounds from a big RAF storage hangar, —- with expert help and very carefully. Well done lads.
Today was that exciting day as we lifted – loaded – transported this SECOND 25 foot wing for our Halifax Project from RAF Museum Midlands in Cosford to the storage facility of Patrick Smart at Maddison 4X4 in Thirsk, UK.

At Patrick’s shop we will build the steel shipping cradle needed to hold this RIGHT wing, as the LEFT wing is already prepared in its cradle.

WHY the steel cradles for BOTH of these wings — over 50 feet of outer wing for our Halifax — because the RCAF will be airlifting these 2 wing panels direct from the UK to RCAF TRENTON, Ontario in the weeks ahead.

From there the wings will be going to our Halifax rebuildshop in Arnprior, Ontario – see the Facebook page called ”REBUILDSHOP” to see all of our Halifax rebuild magic performed by KNOX TECH — https://www.facebook.com/rebuildshopKT

See the photos and video of working on this little darling addition today, coming to Canada soon.
Our sincere thanks again to the RAF Museum and their great team for donating this treasure to us for the Halifax.

This is a great example of museums helping museums while sharing and saving our aviation history together.
regards, Karl – Curator

www.rafmuseum.org