Posts Tagged ‘Airshow’

Raf Cosford Strengthen Line-Up With Fast Jet Training Aircraft

Tuesday, March 19th, 2013

RAF Cosford’s 75th Anniversary Air Show is pleased to announce the confirmed attendance of the RAF Tucano and Typhoon display teams to the event on Sunday 9th June.

The 2013 RAF Typhoon display team is brought to you this year by 29(R) Squadron based at RAF Coningsby and will continue to wow crowds with their impressive display of force and grace. 29(R) Squadron will undertake the entire 2013 display season throughout the UK and beyond. The squadron is responsible for the training of future RAF Typhoon pilots that began their advanced flying training on the Tucano aircraft.

Now a regular in the display season, the RAF Tucano aerobatic display never fails to surprise and impress visitors with its capability and agility given its purpose of training student aircrew. For 2013 the Tucano Display team has decided to commemorate the 70th anniversary of 72 Squadron’s involvement in North Africa in support of the Tunisian campaign during World War II. During this period, 72 Squadron flew a selection of Supermarine Spitfires including Mk VIII and Mk IX variants, which ties into the over-arching theme of this year’s RAF Cosford Air Show.

Air show spokesman, Flight Ops Manager Master Aircrew Chas McHugh said: “We are delighted that the RAF Tucano and Typhoon aircraft are joining us for this year’s anniversary event. Training has always been an important part of RAF Cosford’s history and so having these aircraft as part of the flying display will not only excite the crowds but will be an important reminder of the hugely diverse background of the West Midlands’ RAF Station.”

Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to enjoy the Tucano and Typhoon displays, alongside the famous RAF Red Arrows and 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.

Red Arrows to Headline Wings & Wheels Weekend

Thursday, March 14th, 2013

The unmissable, sensational summer event for the whole family, Wings & Wheels, is thrilled to announce the Red Arrows will be headlining both Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th August 2013 when the Show returns to Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey (home to BBC’s Top Gear).

Currently undertaking winter training in Greece the iconic diamond 9 formation is back for their 49th display season with three new team members Flt Lt Mark Lawson, Flt Lt Steve Morris and Flt Lt Oliver Parr.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director comments: “We are delighted to confirm the Red Arrows are joining us at Wings & Wheels on both days. The aerodrome has a special relationship with the team, not least because this is where their aircraft were built and tested, but also we are one of the few airshows on the circuit where they can land and take-off as part of their display. We’ve also secured some other fantastic air and motoring demonstrations and look forward to announcing more of the line-up over the coming weeks.”

The ‘Wings’ of the event treats visitors to outstanding and diverse 4 hour air displays accompanied by witty and knowledgeable commentary from aviation experts and display pilots, a close-up inspection of all the weekends visiting aircraft and a tour of Dunsfold’s resident Boeing 747 in the ‘Wings Park’.

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.

We’ve also 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.

Fly Folkestone campaign ready for take-off

Wednesday, March 6th, 2013

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

Cosford Club Snaps Up Major Photographic Sponsor

Wednesday, February 27th, 2013

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

Saturday, February 23rd, 2013

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.

Airscene 2014 Airshow Calendar Competition

Saturday, December 1st, 2012

Next years competition will officially open on 1st May 2014, there are a few changes from previous years, and it starts with the early entry phase, which opens today.

2013cc winning entry <<< The 2013cc winning entry.

The early entry phase is for photos which were taken during the 2012 airshow season, max 1 entry per person/household in the early entry phase. Shortlisting for this phase will take place in April and there are only 25 places on the shortlist for early entries.

Other changes to nexts years competition include a maximum number of available shortlist places (150 in total including the early entry phase) – each of the 5 months from May to September will have an allocation of 25 places, however unused places will be carried over to the next month.

As usual sponsors will be contacted in the new year, so there are no prizes currently listed, but rest assured there will be a whole pot of goodies up for grabs again.

For further information and to enter please visit http://www.airscene.co.uk/competitions/2014calendar.php.

Good Luck!


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RAF COSFORD TO MARK AVIATION MILESTONES

Tuesday, November 20th, 2012

The 75th anniversary of RAF Cosford will be one of three special milestones marked at the RAF Cosford Air Show in June 2013.

The announcement was made by Air Show Chairman Wing Commander Mike Wilson at the launch of next year’s event, which will take place on Sunday, June 9.

Also being celebrated will be the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire entering RAF service and the 40th anniversary of the Jaguar aircraft.

Taking centre stage at the launch were four former RAF jets: two Jaguar GR3s, which taxied into position alongside a Jaguar T4 and a Harrier GR3. The Jaguar first entered RAF service in 1973 and was decommissioned in 2007.

Wg Cdr Wilson said he planned to build on the Air Show’s achievements in 2012 by making the event even more exciting in 2013.

He said there would be more military displays, a bigger exhibition area and hospitality areas catering for families and corporate guests. A special ‘Cosford Club’ will also be established, offering up to 200 visitors a unique opportunity to see behind-the-scenes and enjoy the Air Show from a prime viewing area. One lucky club member will also get the chance to take a ‘taxi’ ride in the back of a Jaguar.

Reinforcing the Air Show’s commitment to support local industry and business, Wg Cdr Wilson said that where possible, he will be looking to increase the £1.5 million boost given to the local economy by this year’s event.

He added: “If you come to RAF Cosford in June 2013 you will see respect for our heritage, the integrity to get the job done, an attitude that puts service before self and a desire for excellence in all that we do.”

During the launch, the RAF Benevolent Fund and the Royal Air Forces Association were each presented with a £15,000 cheque, the proceeds from this year’s Air Show. A further £5,000 went to local charities.

Among the guests at the event was Master Aircrew Chas McHugh, an aviation artist, who has designed the artwork for next year’s Air Show. Chas, who lives in Shropshire, has served in the RAF for 35 years. He is currently a helicopter crewman instructor.

Chas said: “It was great to learn that my design had been chosen as the official poster for next year’s RAF Cosford Air Show. It was a challenge to come up with the finished artwork but I am pleased with the results and I hope it will encourage the public to come along.”

Tickets for the air show, priced £20 in advance or £25 on the gate, will be on sale at www.cosfordairshow.co.uk from January but Gift Vouchers and enclosure places can be bought now. Standard admission tickets are free for children under 16 when they are accompanied by an adult.

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Autumn Air Show celebrates the 70th anniversary of the mighty Mustang

Wednesday, September 19th, 2012

The Autumn Air Show on Sunday 14 October closes the air show season in relaxed style.

One of the highlights of the Autumn Air Show will be a display by P-51Mustang Ferocious Frankie alongside Spitfire IX from the Old Flying Machine Company, presenting the might of the Merlin engine in these legendary American and British fighter aircraft.

Also flying will be North American TF-51 Mustang Miss Velma from The Fighter Collection.

These thrilling displays commemorate the 70th anniversary of the first flight of the Merlin-engine Mustang, a pivotal moment in aviation history which was initiated by events at RAF Duxford.

During the Second World War, the Air Fighting Development Unit (AFDU) was based at RAF Duxford. The AFDU provided technical intelligence to the RAF, developing operational tactics and testing captured enemy aircraft.

It was a phone call from Wing Commander Ian Campbell-Orde, Commanding Officer of the AFDU at RAF Duxford, to Ronnie Harker, Rolls-Royce service-liaison pilot, which started the sequence of events which would result in the matchless combination of the Mustang aircraft and the Rolls-Royce engine.

Harker was offered the opportunity to fly one of the new Allison-engine Mustangs that had recently arrived at RAF Duxford. He flew the aircraft on 30 April 1942 and was clearly impressed with its manoeuvrability, speed and agility. In his report, he commented “The point that strikes me is that with a powerful and good engine like the Merlin 61, its performance should be outstanding, as it is 35mph faster than a Spitfire V at roughly the same power.”

A subsequent visit to RAF Duxford by Willoughby Lappin, Personal Assistant to E W Hives, Director and General Works Manager at Rolls-Royce, ensured that the proposal was taken seriously and soon thereafter a meeting about the Mustang took place between Rolls-Royce and the Air Ministry.

After much backroom research, performance investigation testing and correspondence between Rolls- Royce, the American Embassy, North American Aviation (the aircraft manufacturer responsible for the Mustang) and the Air Ministry, the first aircraft was assigned for conversion. This, together with subsequent developments in the aircraft’s propeller and fuel injection, resulted in the definitive American long-range single-seat fighter and an enduringly iconic aircraft that continues to amaze spectators with its aerial dexterity.

IWM Duxford air show favourites displaying at the Autumn Air Show include the Black Cats Lynx Pair from 702 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Yeovilton; the Apache helicopter from the Army Air Corps at RAF Wattisham; BAE Systems Hawk from 208 Squadron at RAF Valley; Shorts Tucano from the Central Flying School Flight at RAF Linton-on-Ouse; Beechcraft King Air from 45 Squadron at RAF Cranwell and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Douglas DC-3 Dakota.

Showcasing historic aircraft based at IWM Duxford, there will be displays by B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B; North American F-86 Sabre; two Spitfires; two Curtiss P-40 Warhawks and a Goodyear Corsair.

Join us for the Autumn Air Show as we commemorate the innovation that led to the formidable Mustang fighter aircraft and celebrate another fantastic air show season at IWM Duxford.

There is still time to purchase your tickets in advance to save 10% and get a free child ticket, which is available with every adult or senior ticket purchased.

This offer is on advance ticket purchases only; it cannot be used on the day of the event.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.iwm.org.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01223 499 353. The Box Office is open from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

There is no booking fee but a postage and packing fee applies per transaction.

Advance tickets will be available until:

5pm on Friday 28 September for overseas postal delivery

5pm on Wednesday 3 October for UK postal delivery

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What are you doing on sunday 7th July 2013?

Wednesday, September 12th, 2012

Wrong! Well at least one of you is… One of you (namely the winner of this years calendar competition) will be going to RAF Waddington International Airshow (Waddo as it is affectionately know by its tens of thousands of fans) with a vehicle pass (for vehicle and up to 5 persons) courtesy of the team at Waddington.

Waddo is one of the UK’s biggest and favourite airshows, with typical crowds averaging 140,000.  This year saw the arrival of the Black Eagles in the UK, now there will be some who stop me to credit RIAT with this, but hey… Waddo showcased them first – all credit for having an earlier date in the calendar.

The main purpose of the event is to increase public awareness and understanding of the RAF and its role today. All proceeds from the Air Show are donated to RAF and local charities each year.

The spectacular 7-hour flying display normally features the fabulous Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the RAF Falcons freefall parachute team and many more military and civilian aircraft from the UK; it is also heavily supported by military forces from around the world. Ground displays include 2 exhibition hangars, funfair, classic cars display, pleasure flying and much more!

To find out more about Waddo Airshow visit http://www.waddingtonairshow.co.uk/

To enter the Airscene 2013 Calendar Competition visit http://www.airscene.co.uk/competitions/2013calendar.php

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Airbourne Marks 20 Year Anniversary With a New High

Monday, September 3rd, 2012

Airbourne celebrated its 20 year anniversary in style with its busiest day ever on Saturday 11 August.

With record crowds flocking to the seafront to see the first ever Vulcan bomber display in Eastbourne, by 2pm car parks at Beachy Head and Five Acre Field became completely full for the first time in the show’s 20 year history.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Neil Stanley said “I have never seen so many people on the seafront, we certainly had our best turn out ever for the Vulcan. It was wonderful to see this huge gleaming hulk of a jet appear from around the corner at Beachy Head – simply amazing!

Thank you to everyone who supported the event this year, whether by volunteering, donating or purchasing the programmes and radio headsets – its all helping us to keep Airbourne soaring high.”

Thousands continued the celebration on Sunday evening heading to Princes Park for coverage of the London 2012 Closing Ceremony, along with a parachute jump from The Tigers and fireworks from the beaches.

Donation buckets counted so far already amount to the most donations ever collected at Airbourne. Organised by the Eastbourne Hospitality Association, funds are being split with 30% to the RNLI Eastbourne charity and 70% towards the cost of Airbourne. Programme sales have also topped those from last year with just a limited number left to purchase and proceeds supporting the future of Airbourne.

Eastbourne Hospitality Association Vice President, Marco Giorgi said “There was a real feel good factor about the show this year, people really want Airbourne and were more than happy to donate towards the show and the RNLI. The message seemed to get across for the first time this year that if people donate just £1 each then the future of Airbourne is assured. The show costs a huge amount to put on and can never be taken for granted. However well it’s supported financially, that £1 in the bucket gives the organisers a clear message that the people of Eastbourne want the show to continue”.

The Vulcan display proved a real hit bringing in extra crowds, with Southern Railway seeing record numbers of visitors into Eastbourne station.

Eastbourne Station Manager, Graham Thrower said: “Over 36 per cent more people used Eastbourne station to get to and from the airshow compared to Saturday last year. To be fair to everyone, we once again instigated a queuing system which worked extremely well. Everyone was in good spirits, and everyone got home with the minimum amount of delay to their journey.”

EHA Vice President, Marco Giorgi also added “Hotels restaurants and pubs were all packed over the weekend, especially for Saturday’s Vulcan display – superb! Well done to all of the organisers for taking a risk on the Vulcan.”

A low bank of cloud and mist directly over Eastbourne seafront on Thursday did however lead to the cancellation of flying displays that day. The low cloud base of only 300 feet in Eastbourne and 1-200 feet at Shoreham Airport, meant that some aircraft could not get airborne and others could not display safely.

However crowds still enjoyed the ground displays, including the new tri-service exhibition with new exhibits of an inflatable assault course, Army paint balling and an Apache helicopter simulator all proving very popular. Blue skies early on Friday meant visitors enjoyed bonus practice flying displays from many teams in the morning followed by a full display in the afternoon.

For fans who missed the show, exclusive photos and cockpit footage are available to view online, including the Jet Provost display and the Royal Navy Raiders Parachute jump. Fans can also share their own photos and video on the Airbourne Facebook page.

There is still time to donate or buy a special edition 20th anniversary souvenir programme. To buy or donate online visit the Airbourne website or donate at the Eastbourne Tourist Information Centre or Seafront Office.

Airbourne returns in 2013 from Thursday 15 – Sunday 18 August.

http://www.eastbourneairshow.com/

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