Posts Tagged ‘RAF Cosford Air Show’

Time’s Flying to the RAF Cosford Air Show

Thursday, June 8th, 2017

S Titan

With the days until the Air Show at RAF Cosford seemingly flying by Air Show organisers are encouraging everyone to buy their tickets so they don’t miss out. On Sunday 11th June, the skies above Shropshire will be filled with the sights and sounds of aircraft from the hum of the Spitfire to the roar of the Typhoon.

The Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Hangar has once again been sponsored by the RAF Charitable Trust and is set to be one of the highlights of the ground displays. Jam packed full of immersive experiences there’ll be the chance to jump out of a plane, have a go at flying a fast jet or take part in an Air Race. Justine Morton, RAF Charitable Trust Director said ‘We are delighted to be sponsoring the STEM Hangar at the RAF Cosford Air Show, it showcases the diverse range of opportunities available within the fields and encourages all ages to get hands on and take part.’

Other ground displays include the Space Hangar which will be demonstrating the advancement in Space Technology and how the United Kingdom has been at the forefront of the development. The Vintage Village will be a chance for visitors to take a trip back to the 1960s while the Battlefield Support Village will give them a chance to see what a Forward Operating Base looks like.

The flying display is shaping up to be one of the best in the country with visiting nations including Italy and Switzerland sending a variety of aircraft including the PC-7 9 ship display team who will perform their stunning aerobatic displays to wow the crowds. Along with the international participants the Royal Air Force are showcasing the awe-inspiring displays from the Red Arrows, Chinook and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

With the Air Show rapidly approaching, organisers are reminding visitors that they are not able to purchase admission tickets at the gate. Air Show Tickets, priced £25.00, are currently available from the Air Show website and selected retail outlets including the RAF Museum and local Tourist Information Centres. Accompanied under-16s enter the Air Show for free, making the event a superb family day out. The RAF Cosford Air Show is an advanced ticket only event, for more details see www.cosfordairshow.co.uk.

Museum aircraft join Air Show line-up

Tuesday, May 23rd, 2017

BAe Harrier GR9

A collection of aircraft from the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford will be joining the line-up in a static display at the RAF Cosford Air Show, taking place on Sunday 11 June 2017. Aircraft confirmed to appear include the British Aerospace Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP), the BAe Harrier GR9A and completing the Museum’s display at this year’s show is the Hawker Hurricane IIc.

As part of the Air Show’s key theme this year ‘International Co-operation’, the British Aerospace Experimental Aircraft Programme (EAP) and the BAe Harrier GR9A will be rolled out from the Museum hangars and exhibited outside on the airfield, forming part of a unique display of aircraft which are manufactured in multinational environments. These aircraft show the evolution of aircraft design and construction from single manufacturer through joint company schemes to multinational component manufacture. Both aircraft are sure to be a popular attraction for aviation fans visiting the show, which attracts in excess of 50,000 visitors each year.

This year’s RAF Cosford Air Show will also be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, originally formed as the Historic Aircraft Flight in 1957. This national treasure and jewel in the RAF’s crown will be marking the anniversary with a special flying display. On the ground, the RAF Museum’s Hawker Hurricane IIc will be on static display allowing aviation fans to get up close to one of Britain’s most iconic aircraft and the main aircraft of RAF Fighter Command squadrons during the Battle of Britain.

RAF Museum Cosford Curator, Al McLean said:
“This is the perfect opportunity for aviation fans and photographers to get stand-alone photos of our aircraft outside of the hangar, particularly the EAP which is unique to Cosford and is rarely seen outside. We are delighted to be able to support the show again this year with static aircraft displays and we hope they will prove popular with visitors.”

In addition to the aircraft displays, the Museum’s Access and Learning team will be running workshops in the Whittle Innovation Centre on the airfield throughout the day, where families can take part in rocket car activities, in free drop-in sessions. There will also be the opportunity to try on some of the jackets, hats and flying goggles from the Museum’s handling collection and view some of the objects used by RAF personnel through the years. To find out more about the Museum and the wide range of learning opportunities available, head to the Whittle Innovation Centre and speak with the team.

RAF Museum Cosford Access and Learning Manager, Julie Brierley said:
“Last year was our first time exhibiting at the Air Show and we were delighted that over 1,000 visitors took part in our STEM workshops. This year, we will again be showcasing some of the activities we run with school groups and we actively encourage families to get involved and have a go. There will be free rocket car workshops running throughout the day in the Whittle Innovation Centre building, situated on the airfield and we hope that families will join us for some hands-on fun.”

Tickets for the RAF Cosford Air Show are advanced sale only and cost £25 per person with free entry for accompanied under 16s. Tickets will not be available to purchase on the gate so to avoid disappointment, visit the show’s website www.cosfordairshow.co.uk and book online. Tickets are also available to purchase in advance from the Museum.

Italians to Whip up a Storm at RAF Cosford Air Show

Friday, May 12th, 2017

Italian Air Force Tornado

The flying display line-up for the RAF Cosford Air Show received yet another exciting boost this week, with the news that the Italian Air Force will be sending an A-200 Tornado to perform on Sunday 11th June!

The Panavia Tornado is a swing-wing, combat aircraft, jointly developed by Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom in the 1970s. The Tornado will be familiar to many Air Show visitors, as the type is also flown by the Royal Air Force, but this will be the first time an Italian example, operated by 311º Flight Group, part of the Reparto Sperimentale Volo, will be appearing at the event. It is hoped that the jet used for the flying display will be adorned in a special paint scheme, unveiled earlier this year in Italy, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 311° Gruppo.

The Italian Air Force will also be sending a C-27J Spartan, a tactical transport aircraft, for static display at the Air Show. Air Show Deputy Director, Marilyn Summers, said, “The Tornado is another display item which will thrill and excite our audience, complimenting the amazing line-up of RAF aircraft which are already committed to perform during the six-hour flying display. We are anticipating yet another sell out so we recommend purchasing Air Show tickets as soon as possible to avoid missing out!”

With the Air Show rapidly approaching, organisers are reminding visitors that they are not able to purchase admission tickets at the gate. Air Show Tickets, priced £25.00, are currently available from the Air Show website and selected retail outlets including the RAF Museum and local Tourist Information Centres. Accompanied under-16s enter the Air Show for free, making the event a superb family day out. The RAF Cosford Air Show is an advanced ticket only event, for more details see www.cosfordairshow.co.uk.

Cold War jet on Course for RAF Cosford Air Show

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2017

Sea Vixen by Rich Cooper

Today the Air Show Office released exciting news that the world’s only flying de Havilland Sea Vixen will be making an appearance in the flying display at the RAF Cosford Air Show on Sunday 11th June.

The Sea Vixen is an iconic British fast jet fighter, with an eye-catching twin-boom design, that flew from aircraft carriers at the height of the Cold War in the 1960s and 1970s, helping to transform the nation’s carrier aviation capability. She was one of the UK’s most notable aircraft designs of the time, with cutting edge technology. With power-folding swept wings and hinged nose-cone, she epitomised the radical and innovative thinking of British engineers and designers of the time, whose designs overcame the challenges of the times.

Today the Sea Vixen operated by Navy Wings, registration ‘G-CVIX’ is the sole remaining Sea Vixen in flying condition in the world. The aircraft is based at RNAS Yeovilton, and flies in her authentic 899 Squadron colours.

Air Show Operations Manager, Peter Reoch, said, “The Sea Vixen is one of the most popular aircraft on the UK air display and will be a highlight of the six-hour flying display on Sunday 11th June. For those of you that love the noise and rumble of fast jets, this will really hit the spot. The line-up for the flying display is now nearing completion, but there may still be one or two surprise additions to announce!”

With the Air Show only five weeks away, and tickets selling fast, organisers are encouraging those wishing to attend to purchase their tickets soon! Air Show Tickets, priced £25.00, are currently available from the Air Show website and selected retail outlets including the RAF Museum. Accompanied under-16s enter the Air Show for free, making the event a superb family day out. The RAF Cosford Air Show is an advanced tickets only event, tickets will not be available on the gate.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Combat Helicopter Showcase at RAF Cosford Air Show

Tuesday, April 25th, 2017

Army Air Corps Apache

The flying displays planned for the RAF Cosford Air Show 2017 were today boosted by the exciting news that the popular Chinook & Apache helicopters would be performing in the skies over Shropshire on Sunday 11th June.

The Royal Air Force has one of the largest fleet of CH-47 Chinook helicopters in the world, primarily used for trooping, resupply, and battlefield Casualty Evacuation, the aircraft can carry up to 55 troops. However, despite its size, the Chinook is an extremely agile aircraft and the flying display will showcase its surprising manoeuvrability to Air Show visitors.

The Army Air Corps will also be bringing their impressive WAH-64 Apache to the Air Show, with the Attack Helicopter Display Team set to wow the crowds, with their flying display complimented by stunning ground based pyrotechnics. The Apache attack helicopter carries a mix of weapons including rockets, Hellfire missiles and a 30mm chain gun, making it one of the Army’s most capable pieces of equipment. As well as performing in the flying display, there will also be an Apache parked in the static displays to allow visitors to get a closer look at the impressive helicopter.

Both helicopter types are attending the Air Show as part of the ‘Battlefield Support’ theme, showcasing aircraft which have proved vital in recent conflicts. The Royal Air Force’s newest support helicopter, the Puma HC2, will also be at the Air Show on static display, as part of the Battlefield Support ground displays.

Air Show Chairman, Wing Commander Chris Jones said, “We’re really excited to have so many combat helicopters from the UK armed forces on show this year, both in the air and on the ground. With Merlin, Wildcat, Griffin & Squirrel helicopters already confirmed to attend, visitors will be able to see a great selection of helicopters from across the UK Armed Forces on Sunday 11th June. As well as the array of military helicopters we are pleased to welcome a selection of civilian helicopters including the last airworthy Westland Whirlwind alongside its current counterpart, the AW189 used by HM Coastguard for Search and Rescue Operations.”

With the Air Show rapidly approaching, those wishing to attend are encouraged to purchase their tickets soon, as they will not be available to purchase at the gate. Air Show Tickets, priced £25.00, are currently available from the Air Show website and selected retail outlets including the RAF Museum. Accompanied under-16s enter the Air Show for free, making the event a superb family day out.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

RAF Aircraft Showcased at Air Show Media Launch

Friday, April 21st, 2017

Skymaster

Visitors to this year’s RAF Cosford Air Show can once again be transported back in time as the popular Vintage Village returns on the showground, bigger and better than ever before!

This year’s Village will showcase the 1960s; one of the most defining eras of the 20th century. Marilyn Summers, Air Show Deputy Director, said, “We are very pleased to welcome the University of Wolverhampton back as sponsor of the Vintage Village. Staff and students will be bringing along some exciting displays including a 1960s hospital ward and a fashion show. The Vintage Village always gives our visitors the chance to learn about the history of the time in a fun atmosphere and we have some really exciting things planned!”

This year’s live stage pays tribute to the stars of the 1960s with a great mix of performers. Themed food and drink outlets including Lily’s Secret Vintage Tea Room will help set the atmosphere. There will be a chance to reminisce in the Kids Fun Zone, try a spot of retail therapy with a host of Vintage trade stalls and test your skills at the 1966 World Cup penalty shoot-out!

Traders interested in booking a pitch for the Vintage Fair should email averyvintageevents@gmail.com for further details.

A host of motor enthusiasts will be in attendance with some fantastic vehicles including the RAF Mini Club bringing along some wonderful examples of the iconic 1960s brand.

Aircraft enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the static line-up planned for the Vintage Village including a number of iconic aircraft from the period including an O-2 Skymaster and Jet Provost. New for this year will be a cockpit sections display, with exhibits to include a cockpit from an English Electric Lightning.

RAF Cosford Air Show is a fantastic family day out with something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets are on sale now and organisers are encouraging attendees to purchase their tickets soon as the Air Show is, once again, an Advance Ticket Only event. Adult tickets cost £25.00 and accompanied under-16s enter for free.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

RAF Aircraft Showcased at Air Show Media Launch

Saturday, April 1st, 2017

Cosford Air Show 2017

Various Royal Air Force aircraft were showcased at last monday’s Media Launch of the RAF Cosford Air Show 2017, giving a sneak preview of what’s to come on Sunday 11th June.

With RAF Cosford hosting the Royal Air Force’s only official Air Show, it comes as no surprise that all the RAF display teams are scheduled to perform at the show, including the world famous Red Arrows flying their nine Hawk jets. The Eurofighter Typhoon is also scheduled to perform a thrilling solo display, with Flt Lt Ryan Lawton showcasing the power and agility of the combat aircraft. The RAF’s Grob Tutor is returning to the Air Show circuit for 2017, and Sqn Ldr Andy Tagg was on hand at the Media Launch to show off the Tutor aircraft. Displays from the RAF Falcons and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will also form part of the six-hour flying display.

As well as dazzling displays in the air, there will also be an array of aircraft on static display across the airfield on Sunday 11th June which visitors will be able to get up close and personal with. Two of the aircraft types which are scheduled for static display at the Air Show, a Tucano T1 and Squirrel HT1, were present at the Media Launch today. The organisers said that more aircraft would be announced over the coming weeks.

With the Air Show fast approaching, and with no tickets available at the gate, those wishing to attend are being encouraged to purchase their tickets soon. Air Show Tickets, priced £25.00, are currently available from the Air Show website and selected retail outlets including the RAF Museum at Cosford and Hendon. Accompanied under-16s enter the Air Show for free, making the event a great family day out.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Unique Tribute Planned for BBMF Anniversary at RAF Cosford Air Show

Tuesday, March 14th, 2017

BBMF Spitfire

The RAF Cosford Air Show is set to debut a unique flypast from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight on Sunday 11th June 2017. This year the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight celebrate their 60th Anniversary, so a special display consisting of four BBMF Fighters performing alongside the ever-popular Avro Lancaster has been specially planned for the RAF Cosford Air Show.

Since its inception 60 years ago, the BBMF, originally known as the Historic Aircraft Flight, and their historic aircraft have been adored by the nation. Initially formed in 1957 the flight comprised of three Spitfires before growing to become the household name that now consists of six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Lancaster, Dakota and two Chipmunks.

Squadron Leader Andrew Millikin, Officer Commanding BBMF, said “I am delighted to be displaying at RAF Cosford on our 60th Anniversary. It will be the first of only 3 venues where we will display the Lancaster with 4 fighters. This will feature a 4 ship tailchase and synchro display. It will be a unique spectacle and one well worth catching.”

As well as the historic aircraft from the BBMF, the flying display will also consist of displays from all the Royal Air Force Display teams, including the Red Arrows and the Typhoon. Other highlights currently confirmed for the flying display include the Swiss PC-7 Display Team, the only airworthy Westland Whirlwind and a mock airfield attack by a pair of BAC Strikemasters.

Tickets to the RAF Cosford Air Show 2017 are on sale now and visitors are encouraged to buy their tickets soon with Early-bird tickets currently priced at £22.00 per adult until Monday 27th March. Once again the Air Show is Advanced Ticket only with no tickets being available to purchase on the gate. With parking included and accompanied under 16s entering for free, the RAF Cosford Air Show is great value for money.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

RAF Displays Boost Flying Display line-up for Air Show

Friday, March 10th, 2017

Cosford Airshow Logo - Crown Copyright

A number of star attractions have today confirmed their attendance at the RAF Cosford Air Show. These attractions, and others, are set to wow the crowds as part of the flying display on Sunday 11th June.

Annual highlights of the Air Show for many visitors, the RAF Red Arrows display team will once again be demonstrating their world-famous flying skills with their thrilling display. The team, officially titled the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, have recently returned from an epic three-month tour of Asia showing the ‘Best of British’ which included their first ever display flown in the Republic of China. The Red Arrows are the second formation display team to confirm their attendance at the RAF Cosford Air Show 2017, with their counterparts from Switzerland, the Swiss PC-7 Team, announced by the Air Show Organisers last month.

The awesome power and agility of the RAF’s Eurofighter Typhoon will also be showcased in the flying display. The Typhoon is the Royal Air Force’s primary air defence fighter, with a delta-wing construction and a top speed of over 1500 miles per hour. Other highlights from the Royal Air Force in the air will include a parachute jump from the RAF Falcons, solo display from the RAF Tutor and a unique flypast from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to celebrate their 60th anniversary, exciting details of which will be revealed soon.

Wing Commander Chris Jones, Air Show Chairman, said, “We’re thrilled to be offering such a diverse array of aircraft as part of our six-hour flying display, showcasing the best of the Royal Air Force in the skies above RAF Cosford, the home of RAF engineering. These displays will complement those already announced; including the Strikemaster Pair, Westland Whirlwind, Muscle Biplane and the Hawker Hurricane. This year’s flying display is really shaping up.”

Organisers expect confirmation of which Royal Air Force aircraft will be available for static displays to be announced in the coming weeks, as well as further aircraft from other branches of the UK military and International military aircraft.

Visitors are advised to buy their tickets early to avoid disappointment, as the Air Show is once again Advanced Tickets Only. The RAF Cosford Air Show is a great value for money family day out, with accompanied under-16s entering for free. Early bird tickets are currently priced at £22.00 per adult and can be purchased at www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Swiss Display Team to Wow Crowds at RAF Cosford Air Show

Thursday, February 16th, 2017

Swiss PC-7 Display Team

Organisers of the RAF Cosford Air Show today revealed the exciting news that the Swiss Air Force would be sending their elite PC-7 Team to perform in the skies over Shropshire on Sunday 11th June.

The Swiss PC-7 Team were formed in 1989 and they are named after their aircraft; the Pilatus PC-7, which is a military training aircraft manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft of Switzerland. Their display is designed to showcase the skills of the Swiss Air Force pilots, with uniquely choreographed formations flown with precision timing – Swiss-ness at its best!

This will be the first time that the Swiss Air Force PC-7 Team have displayed at RAF Cosford, making them a must-see attraction for fans of the aviation event which attracts more than 50,000 spectators to the air base each year. Air Show Operations Manager Peter Reoch said, “We’re extremely pleased to welcome our friends from the Swiss Air Force back to RAF Cosford, and are delighted that their award-winning PC-7 Team will be performing here for the first time. We hope this is the first of many aircraft coming from Europe to participate as part of our ‘International Co-Operation’ theme at the Air Show in 2017.”

The organisers are also expecting confirmation on which Royal Air Force aircraft will be performing in the flying display within the next few weeks. With this in mind, they are reminding visitors that discounted Early-Bird ticket prices are still available until midnight on Monday 27th March and to take advantage of the savings available! The Air Show will, for the third year running, be an Advanced Ticket Only event, with no tickets available for sale at the gates.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk