Posts Tagged ‘RAF Cosford Airshow’

Mighty Vulcan Returns to RAF Cosford

Tuesday, February 17th, 2015

Vulcan Bomber by Peter Van Loey

One of Britain’s most iconic aircraft will be roaring over Shropshire on Sunday 14th June, in an appearance dedicated to Sir Jack Hayward, which is sure to be a highlight of the thrilling flying displays planned for the event.

Visitors to the RAF Cosford Air Show will be treated to a full flying display of the mighty Avro Vulcan, a British cold-war nuclear bomber. Affectionately referred to by its registration,XH558 is the only flying example of the Vulcan, which was returned to the skies in 2007 after a lengthy public fundraising campaign.

Air Show Spokesperson Peter Reoch said, “We are extremely pleased to be welcoming the XH558 back to RAF Cosford,as it is undoubtedly one of the most popular aircraft on the UK air show circuit. The Vulcan’s display will be one of many highlights which make the RAF Cosford Air Show a great day out for all the family.”

The Vulcan is just one of the many exciting aerial displays planned for the show, which for the first time will not be selling tickets on the gate. The move to become Advance Ticket Only is part of the efforts by show organisers to continually improve traffic flows to the event. Visitors are advised to buy their tickets early, to ensure they don’t miss out on seeing the Vulcan’s unique blend of graceful design and raw power.

The Vulcan’s display at RAF Cosford will be dedicated to Sir Jack Hayward, who passed away in January. Sir Jack was a huge supporter of XH558’s restoration, withhis dramatic £500,000 donation saving the project in 2006. Dr Robert Pleming, Chief Executive of Vulcan to the Sky said;”It is extremely gratifying for us to be invited to appear once again at the RAF Cosford Air Show, where many of XH558’s supporters will be able to enjoy her wonderful display and where we have received such an incredible welcome in the past. It is also particularly pleasing to be appearing because of the relevance of this historic location to the Vulcan in respect of our close affinity with the National Cold War Exhibition, part of the RAF Museum Cosford.”

For the first time, tickets for the RAF Cosford Air Show 2015 are advance sale only. Adult tickets are priced £22.00 with accompanied under-16s coming free! For more details on the event and to purchase tickets, visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Cosford In A Class Of Its Own

Sunday, March 30th, 2014

At the recent launch for this summer’s RAF Cosford Air Show, organisers unveiled more information about aircraft confirmed to take part in the thrilling six-hour flying display.

The announcement that the ever-popular Blades and the exciting four ship Yakovlevs are both coming on 8 June, as well as the Red Arrows, brings the total number of aerobatic teams up to three. Other aircraft that will feature include two which support this year’s special photo-reconnaissance theme – the Canberra PR9 and the Spitfire PR11. For the Spitfire it will be “welcome home” to RAF Cosford where she was based for a time during WWII.

The jet line up includes the classic Hunter T7 and the RAF Typhoon and at the other end of the scale will be the distinctive pair of Boeing Stearman biplaneswith the BreitlingWingwalkers and the classic aircraft of the Great War Team.

On the ground three large hangars will feature interactive displays covering the wide range of engineering and technical skills taught at RAF Cosford, with one totally dedicated to a Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths exhibition and all of the individual specialist schools each having their own area, many including the chance to get that all-important photo in the cockpit.

One ground display unique to RAF Cosford will be a line-up celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the first light of the Kestrel, the prototype for the Harrier. The RAF Museum’s beautifully restored Kestrel will be brought up to date with static examples of the Harrier GR3 and GR9 and the naval variant the FA2, on special loan for this year’s celebration.

Advance tickets are on sale now at £20 with children under 16 coming free.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Prince Performs For Record Cosford Crowds In World First

Tuesday, June 11th, 2013

Cosford Apache demo Prince harry

As the dust finally starts to settle back over the RAF Cosford airfield, spectators are still talking about the surprise Royal visitor who showed off his flying skills to a record crowd at the Air Show on Sunday 9th June.

Captain Wales, better known as Prince Harry, smiled and waved to the public as he completed the pre-flight checks on his Apache attack helicopter before demonstrating the incredible abilities of the Army Air Corps aircraft.

In his first Air Show performance, Captain Wales flew alongside an RAF Chinook helicopter in the humbling Medical Emergency Response Team demonstration, highlighting how the two aircraft work together out on operations in the life-saving role. He then went on to take part in the individual Apache display, showing off the agility and grace of his deadly attack helicopter.

The Prince couldn’t have picked a better day for his debut on the Air Show circuit, as the record crowds enjoyed glorious summer weather with initial estimates indicating an attendance in excess of 50,000.

The 28 year old Royal co-pilot gunner has been drawn from a pool of suitably qualified and experienced, operationally ready, Apache aircrew and ground crew and therefore may be selected to display at other Air Shows throughout the summer.

Other highlights of the 2013 event included a special formation display between the RV8tors and Vulcan XH558 as well as inspiring performances from the RAF Red Arrows and Typhoon jets.

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

For more information or to book tickets please visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or call 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min).

Post Show Announcement From The RAF Cosford Air Show 2013

Monday, June 10th, 2013

The RAF Cosford Air Show saw record attendance on Sunday 9th June. The highlights of the show included an appearance by the Vulcan XH558 accompanied by the two Rv8s, the RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the RAF Typhoon display. On the ground a whole range of new exhibits and interactive displays provided entertainment for all the family.

An appearance by Captain Wales (Prince Harry) flying the Apache took the crowd by surprise and was a first for the Air Show circuit. On the ground a visit from Carol Vorderman helped launch the Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics area and her visit and the programme signing session by the Red Arrows both proved popular with the public.

Unfortunately the large crowd numbers led to congestion on the roads and many people were delayed getting to the show. On the day organisers introduced contingency parking spaces and everybody who arrived at the show was able to get in. Air Show Spokesman Amanda Butcher said “We worked hard with the Civilian Police and the Highways Agency to try to manage the huge volume of traffic trying to get to the show and we thank the vast majority of the members of the public for their patience. We did ask those without tickets not to come but many did still travel and that added to the volume of traffic.”

Anybody who was unable to get to RAF Cosford and wishes to apply for a refund should visit the Air Show website for further information on how to do so. Applications will be addressed on an individual basis.

www.cosfordairshow.co.uk

Anticipation Heats Up For Cold War Line Up At Cosford

Tuesday, June 4th, 2013

Vulcan Bomber by Mr Jamie Hunter

Avro Vulcan XH558 leads the way with several cold war era jets lined up for various displays at the RAF Cosford 75th Anniversary Air Show this Sunday 9th June.

With pre-show ticket sales already breaking recent records, the West Midlands’ premier aviation event looks set to be one of the best ever. One of the key reasons for anticipation reaching fever pitch is the confirmed appearance of the World’s last remaining flying Avro Vulcan, which will, subject to serviceability, be roaring through the Shropshire skies in what could be her last year of flight.

Kept in the air by the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, the aircraft that retired in 1993 after 33 years of service with the RAF returned to the skies in October 2007 and has been facing a long and determined battle to stay airborne ever since.

Wing Commander Mike Wilson, the Chairman of the Air Show Executive Committee, says “The RAF Cosford Air Show team is delighted to welcome XH558 and members of the Vulcan to the Sky organisation to the 2013 event. As it represents a cornerstone of British aviation heritage, the Avro Vulcan is truly a remarkable aircraft. We are looking forward to seeing its iconic shape gracing the skies over RAF Cosford once again and hope that our guests will be as thrilled as we are by the Vulcan’s appearance.”

In addition to XH558, RAF Cosford will also be providing a flying display by a Jet Provost aircraft, which was used as a jet trainer for RAF aircrew throughout the 1950’s, 60’s and beyond. On the ground, a 1970’s Harrier GR3 is the star in a keenly anticipated exclusive to the Cosford static display, with a reconstruction of an operational field hide used as they were with the Harriers in Germany throughout the East/West divide.

As well as the celebrations of its 75th anniversary, RAF Cosford also looks to showcase its current day activities in the form of the Jaguar jet. Another Cold War aircraft, these last remaining Jaguars are used to help train the next generation of RAF aircraft technicians and engineers. A duo of the aircraft will be performing a demonstration taxi on the morning of the Air Show to provide the public with an extremely rare opportunity to witness the jet in action.

Further to the Cold War aircraft, a diverse collection of other vintage and modern aircraft will also be showing off their abilities on Sunday. With displays from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight with their enchanting Lancaster, Spitfire, Hurricane and Dakota aircraft, to the emphatic demonstrations by the RAF Typhoon and the RAF Red Arrows. With over 25 aircraft on offer, the Air Show will boast a bumper flying display lasting over 6½ hours.

With ticket sales projected to be sky-high and the great British weather finally emerging, visitors looking to make the most of their day and reduce any possible travel delays are encouraged to exploit a special Air Show train timetable. This provides extra services throughout the day right into the heart of RAF Cosford, which is served by its own railway station. Dropping you off right next to the airfield, it is just a short walk to the pedestrian entrance. Those who purchase their Air Show admission ticket with their rail travel will also be able to enjoy the discounted advance rate.

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

For more information or to book tickets please visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or call 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min).

(Vulcan photo by Jamie Hunter)

Carol Counts Down To Cosford

Saturday, June 1st, 2013

With less than 10 days to go until the RAF Cosford 75th Anniversary Air Show, Carol Vorderman has confirmed her attendance on the day in support of a selection of engineering-orientated exhibits for the public to enjoy on Sunday 9th June.

The focus of the displays is to develop an interest and educate young people in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) to inspire the future generation of technical-minded individuals through the medium of interactive activities.

In order to help achieve these aims, TV personality Carol Vorderman will be there to help promote interest in various opportunities available within the spectrum of STEM. Carol will join a number of female RAF personnel and act as the ideal role model for the female presence in the STEM community today. This is highlighted by a Spitfire on display by the RAF Museum Cosford which focuses on appreciating Women in Engineering during their roles in the Air Transport Auxiliary in World War II.

When speaking about her appearance at the STEM exhibition at this year’s RAF Cosford Air Show, Carol says “I’m really looking forward to the RAF Cosford Air Show. I’ll be taking the opportunity to meet some of the organisations promoting Science and Engineering careers and I’m hoping to have a go at some of the activities on offer myself. With an outstanding flying display lined up as well it should be a great day out!”

Additional displays will include a wide array of exhibits with everything from flight simulators and scientific demonstrations to rocket cars and 3-D virtual reality environments, with many offering the opportunity to interact with the displays to provide a truly hands-on experience. Also in attendance will be Jaguar Land Rover with a spectacular display of some of their finest cars including a brand new 2013 Jaguar F-TYPE as well as the XKR model used in the 2002 hit James Bond film ‘Die Another Day’.

The STEM exhibition supports a diverse selection of ground displays aimed at all ages right across the show ground including both military and civilian demonstrations. The flying displays also promise to entertain, with over 6½ hours of airborne excitement. With over 40 aircraft performing, don’t miss your chance to witness the spectacular RAF Red Arrows, Vulcan XH558, the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and many more!

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

For more information or to book tickets call 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min), or visit visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk.

Fun Fair and Festivities Inspire Family Fun at RAF Cosford

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

This year RAF Cosford celebrates its 75th Anniversary and the annual Air Show aims to provide one of the greatest family orientated summer days out in the West Midlands with non-stop entertainment for all ages, with opportunities to enjoy everything from a fun fair to unique ground displays this Sunday 9th June.

The Air Show organisers, who in 2013 are in their second year of arranging the event, are building on that reputation by providing some excellent opportunities to make what already promises to be a great day out even better!

Children under 16’s enter the event for FREE when accompanied by an adult and, for the first year ever, there will be exclusive family meal deals at a number of catering outlets spread out over the site. Consisting of two adult meals and two children’s meals, including food and hot or cold drinks, the meal deal outlets will be well signposted to ensure that you can make the most of these special offers. Individual children’s meals, including food and a drink, will also be on offer from as little as £5.

This year’s event boasts one of the best flying displays that RAF Cosford has ever welcomed to the Air Show and this is supplemented on the ground by a wide array of static aircraft displays. These include a number of open-cockpit displays so little ones and adults alike can have the opportunity to sit in a jet once capable of flying faster than 1,000mph! Ground displays will also involve a host of competitions and games for children to enjoy including a penalty shootout and the chance to make your own model aircraft.

The airfield will also accommodate a fun fair that promises to get your blood pumping, with rides on offer including all your favourites from dodgems and galloper horses to tea cup rides and a wide selection of stalls and games.

For those in need of some retail therapy, a craft fair will be available in one of the hangars for you to check out a huge choice of both local and national hand-made products. There are also many exhibitors and stalls outside on the show ground itself selling everything from aircraft models and clothing to experience days out and perfumes. The RAF Air Cadets will also have a large exhibition, including a climbing wall as part of their own interactive displays, with various Air Cadet Squadrons on hand to have a chat about the opportunities available to you and your little ones.

The popular arena demonstrations will return for 2013, this year sponsored by Free Radio. ‘The Free Radio Arena’ will play host to some exciting spectacles such as a Field Gun Run and performances from the Royal Air Force College Band. You may even get the opportunity to meet and get a photo with Free Radio’s own HumFree the Hamster too!

Air Show spokesman Flying Officer Sam Jewell says “A vast majority of our visitors are those looking for a wonderful family day out and so we put great deal of effort into making sure that we cater to all ages and interests with our activities on the ground. This year we’ve managed to organise so much entertainment around the airfield that, coupled with a flying display lasting over 6½ hours, will provide a truly thrilling experience.”

Over those 6½ hours, the whole family will have the opportunity to marvel at some phenomenal flying displays. With over 25 on offer, don’t miss your chance to witness the spectacular RAF Red Arrows, Vulcan XH558, the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and many more!

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

For more information or to book tickets visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or call 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min).

Visitors looking to make the most of their day at RAF Cosford and reduce any possible travel delays are encouraged to exploit a special Air Show train timetable which provides extra services throughout the day. For those further afield, see our website for coach companies operating excursions near you www.cosfordairshow.co.uk/coachtravel.html.

RAF Cosford Reveal Line-Up For Air Show Extravaganza

Thursday, May 16th, 2013

With just a few weeks remaining until the 2013 RAF Cosford Air Show, organisers confirm the complete line-up of flying displays ready to thrill the crowds on Sunday 9th June.

Despite boasting an already impressive schedule, the event organisers are hinting that the roster of aircraft in attendance might still grow in the weeks leading up to the show and suggest that visitors will be treated to more than they bargained for.

One of the key themes to this year’s Air Show is the celebration of RAF Cosford’s 75th Anniversary, with the flying display kicking off with a special flypast of aircraft associated with the history of the West Midlands base.

In a similar light to last year’s surprise visit by an RAF VC10 tanker aircraft, the organisers have managed to secure an exclusive fly-through by a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. The presence of the Brize Norton based C-130 currently makes Cosford the only RAF Air Show this year to offer the aircraft in its flying display.

The extensive collection of airborne displays on offer this year includes some of the greatest aircraft ever to take to the skies. Since its appearance was confirmed a few weeks ago, Avro Vulcan XH558 from the Vulcan to the Sky Trust has become one of the most hotly anticipated displays on the day. What’s more, the support from the last airworthy B-17 Flying Fortress in Europe, known affectionately as ‘Sally B’, also helped stir interest for the family day out as the list of well-known vintage aircraft has grown.

As one of only three remaining RAF sponsored Air Shows across the country, the military presence will be strong over the Shropshire station of RAF Cosford including the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight with their Lancaster, Spitfire, Hurricane and Dakota aircraft. RAF display aircraft will be in abundance and highlighted by the Eurofighter Typhoon providing an unforgettable display, alongside the World famous RAF Red Arrows performing their unique demonstration of professional excellence that promises to wow the crowd.

Military rotary aircraft will also provide a number of key displays, with an RAF Sea King helicopter providing a role demonstration of the vital work they carry out 24 hours a day. Members of the public will be able to enjoy displays flown by an RAF Chinook and an Army Air Corps Apache both individually and combined as they complete their own displays followed by a Medical Evacuation demonstration to provide an insight into one of their key tasks on deployed operations.

Aerobatic displays will be sure to get the adrenaline pumping as a number of teams, including the popular RV8tors and The Blades, show off their dare-devil flying skills and demonstrate the ultimate example of accuracy and agility.

Air Show spokesman Flying Officer Sam Jewell says “The RAF Cosford Air Show has developed one of the most promising line-ups for a number of years and we are thrilled to be able to offer members of the public such a spectacular day out. Combined with a unique and diverse selection of activities and exhibits on the ground, this year’s event looks set to be one of the best on offer nationwide and we hope that members of the public will join us for what promises to be a fun-filled family day out.”

Other confirmations for Sunday 9th June include the Breitling Wing Walkers, O’Briens Flying Circus, the SWIP Team, Aerostars, an F-86 Sabre and a privately-owned Supermarine Spitfire. Additional military displays include the RAF Grob Tutor and Shorts Tucano training aircraft, as well as the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team, an Army Air Corps Lynx helicopter and the Royal Navy Historic Flight with their Sea Fury aircraft.

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

For more information or to book tickets visit www.cosfordairshow.co.uk or call 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min).

Visitors looking to make the most of their day at RAF Cosford and reduce any possible travel delays are encouraged to exploit a special Air Show train timetable which provides extra services throughout the day. For those further afield, see our website for coach companies operating excursions near you www.cosfordairshow.co.uk/coachtravel.html.

RAF Cosford Air Show Keep Feet Firmly On The Ground

Sunday, May 12th, 2013

The RAF Cosford Air Show has always prided itself on not just being the Midlands’ premier aviation event, but also a fun-filled family day out that provides a wide range of interactive and engaging activities on the ground this Sunday 9th June.

This year the event will focus on celebrating the 75th Anniversary of RAF Cosford itself and this will be reflected in a number of displays by the various schools and training establishments currently based at the Shropshire station. Together they will provide an insight into the rich heritage of first class technical and engineering operations that RAF Cosford has become known for. These will include a demonstration of radar and computer equipment from No 1 Radio School and a display of armed aircraft & escape equipment from the Weapons & Survival Equipment Training Squadron. An array of activities will also be on offer from the School of Physical Training, a demonstration of hydraulic principles provided by the Avionic & Mechanical Training Squadron and an interactive opportunity for visitors to attempt various hand skills with the Trade Foundation Training Squadron. 238 Squadron will be opening the cockpits of their fast jets to allow people the rare opportunity to sit in the aircraft and experience what it’s like for the pilots of the RAF.

In addition to the anniversary celebrations, a wide variety of other exhibitors, stands, arena displays, bands and charities will also attend the show. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy everything from the Cosford Military Wives Choir and a fair ground, to aviation artwork specialists and a host of conservation and wildlife groups.

Free Radio this year will sponsor a demonstration arena to be known as ‘The Free Radio Arena’ and will play host to some exciting spectacles such as a Field Gun competition and performances from the Royal Air Force College Band. You may even get the opportunity to meet Free Radio’s own HumFree the Hamster too!

The RAF Air Cadets will have a large exhibition manned by various Air Cadet Squadrons there to discuss the opportunities available to you and your little ones. For those old enough to think about joining, the RAF Careers recruitment team will be on hand to inform those that also want to ‘Rise Above The Rest’ in the Royal Air Force.

Air Show spokesman Marilyn Summers says “Not only will the Air Show provide a thrilling flying display, but we also aim to keep the whole family entertained with a wide and varied selection of activities on the ground. From the fun fair, the RAF Museum, static aircraft displays, military exhibitions and a craft fair. A number of stands by Nikon, who sponsor our exclusive ‘The Cosford Club’, will be available to display some of the very latest photography equipment, so we are sure that visitors will find something here to suit everyone’s interests.”

The ground exhibits help make the Air Show a unique day out, coupled with an incredible 5½ hour flying display on offer. Aircraft confirmations include Vulcan XH558 from the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, B-17 Flying Fortress ‘Sally B’ and a number of RAF aircraft including the Typhoon & Tucano display teams, a medical evacuation demonstration including Chinook & Apache helicopters and the world famous Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows.

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, by calling the 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min plus network charges), or at various other outlets details of which can be found on the website. Advance adult tickets are priced from £20, representing a 20% discount on tickets bought on the day and FREE admission for children under-16 accompanied by an adult as well as FREE car parking.

RAF Cosford Make Air Show Even More Accessible

Saturday, May 4th, 2013

A partnership between the RAF Charitable Trust and the Event Mobility Charitable Trust will help increase the accessibility for disabled visitors to the RAF Cosford Air Show on Sunday 9th June.

The Event Mobility Charitable Trust was founded in 1998 with the sole aim of providing electric scooters and manual wheelchairs for disabled, mobility impaired and elderly people to enjoy a day out at an event or show.

Air Show spokesman Flying Officer Sam Jewell says: “The RAF Cosford Air Show team is extremely pleased to be able to offer our visitors this new service for those that might require it. It important to the organisers that everybody, regardless of ability, is able to enjoy a wonderful day out and we hope that this will help go that little bit further to help.”

The Air Show also offers a special parking area on hard-standing and with accessible toilets nearby, for those displaying the nationally recognised blue wheelchair symbol. However, with all parking being on the showground many disabled visitors prefer to use the standard public car park which is central to all attractions.

The RAF Charitable Trust and the Royal International Air Tattoo have a long-standing record of working with disabled people through the Flying Scholarships for Disabled People, and the historic links with Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader. The Director of the RAF Charitable Trust Air Commodore (retired) Tim Winstanley said: “The Trust’s objectives include the aspiration to ‘Encourage air education and aviation-mindedness’ so that it is hugely important that those who require additional help to gain access to all parts of the RAF Cosford Air Show should be able to do so safely and efficiently.

As such the Trust is delighted to be able to be involved with the provision of mobility scooters at the RAF Cosford Air Show 2013.”

In order for visitors to reserve an electric scooter or manual wheelchair, they must either print out an advance booking form from the website www.eventmobility.org.uk/events-bookings.asp or contact the EMCT office on 01386 725391 to request a form to be posted. Please be aware that advance bookings cannot be made by phone. Alternatively, please browse the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section.

For further information as to how the RAF Cosford Air Show ensures that guests with disabilities can enjoy the spectacular flying and ground displays in the same conditions as all our visitors, please visit the accessibility area of our website at http://www.cosfordairshow.co.uk/accessibility.html.

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, by calling the 24-hour ticket line on 0871 230 1083 (10p/min plus network charges), or at various other outlets details of which can be found on the website. Advance adult tickets are priced from £20, representing a 20% discount on tickets bought on the day and FREE admission for children under-16 accompanied by an adult as well as FREE car parking.