Belgian Air Component F-16AM Fighting Falcon Display Dates

Posted by Flightline UK on 27/02/2008 under Seaside Shows | Be the First to Comment

There are four UK dates so far announced for the solo F-16AM display from Belgium’s No 1 squadron this year – RIAT, Sunderland, Leuchars and Duxford’s Autumn Air Show

Mayday Mayday – Vulcan hits turbulence en route to Displays

Posted by Flightline UK on 18/02/2008 under Warbirds and Classic Jets | Be the First to Comment

Avro Vulcan XH558 has run into the headwinds of the current economic conditions.

The return of the aircraft to air displays is at risk of being slowed to a stop because potential sponsors have drawn in their purse strings and are not making available the expected funds. With three month’s work still needed to ready the aircraft and its crew for air displays, the lack of funding to start this last phase is now endangering the return of the Vulcan to the beginning of the airshow season.

“We need to start the rest of the test flight programme with the return of good weather at the beginning of March, but we still have to have £150,000 in our hands before we can do that, plus confidence that we will go on raising at least £50,000 per month after that. Right now we look like we’re going to be starved of funds at this critical moment for the Vulcan. Every week’s delay to the restart from the end of February will push the first display appearance back by another week. What we are asking people for now is a fraction of what we have raised already, but it is needed now!”, says Dr Robert Pleming, Chief Executive of the Vulcan to the Sky Trust.

Having delivered on their promise of August 2006 to put Vulcan XH558 back into the air, on 18th October 2007, Robert Pleming’s loyal team at Bruntingthorpe Airfield, Leicestershire are determined not to fail to meet the public’s expectations of the Vulcan’s return to the air display world this summer.

Over £6million has been spent on returning Vulcan XH558 to flight, of which £2.7million has come from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The rest – the majority – has come from public donations, making XH558 truly the public’s aircraft.

“I’m afraid that if we don’t fly again soon, the door will start to close on the future of the Vulcan in flight. We won’t be able to carry out our role of ‘Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future’, providing a once-seen, never-forgotten sight to a new generation of youngsters, stimulating interest in design and engineering, and telling people about an important period in our Nations history“, continues Robert Pleming, “With the public’s help, the triumphant return of this much-loved aircraft this summer will become the not-to-be-missed spectacle of the season. But we sincerely hope that companies will also give serious consideration to taking up the sponsorship opportunity of the year.”

Keith Mans, Chairman of the Vulcan to the Sky Trust agrees: “Once again, we are dependent on the goodwill of other people to ensure that XH558, the people’s aircraft, continues to fly. In August 2006, the public responded magnificently to our plea for support, and as the result of the £1.3million donated, XH558 took to the air last October. We are praying that people will rise to the somewhat smaller challenge we now face, and help us by making a donation and/or joining the Club today, to ensure that we are able to keep our promise to give XH558 back to the Nation this summer”

Donations may be sent to VTST, Bruntingthorpe Airfield, Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 5QS, By donating online at http://www.vulcantothesky.com or by ‘phone to 0116 247 8145

Companies who want to take advantage of the very real corporate sponsorship opportunities should contact Michael Trotter on 07803 141483.

French Air Force Mirage 2000C Solo Display Dates

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Two UK dates have been included in the Mirage 2000C schedule: BigginHill and Waddington

Bear Clocks Up RAF Flying Hours

Posted by Flightline UK on 13/02/2008 under Any other business | Be the First to Comment

A cuddly bear has clocked up more flying hours with the RAF than most people would see in their lifetime.

And when the toy’s adventures finally come to an end it will be auctioned off to raise funds for the RAF Association (RAFA).

“Boss Bear” began his travels at the 2006 RAFA Shoreham Airshow. Since then the House of Lords teddy bear has gradually wound its way around the world.

John Periam, the Shoreham Air Show Press Officer, said: “His pilot’s log book has more flying hours than most would see in their life time plus some interesting stories, photographs and autographs with celebrities and crew members. His jumper has more squadron badges on than it can now take so we have had to start putting them on his rucksack.”

The patron of the 2006 RAFA Shoreham Airshow, HRH Princess Alexandra, signed the cover of his log book and the bear was last seen flying off with the Merlin Display Team back to their base. Since then he has flown with the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, accompanied squadrons at most RAF Bases in the UK and even participated in Operation Red Flag.

He was the first bear to qualify on the Nimrod R1 in an electronic surveillance role – flight deck and rear crew – and the Commanding Officer of 51 Squadron even commented: “Boss Bear is an outstanding aviator, it has been a pleasure to fly with him.”

Not one to be confined to the British Isles, the bear has also flown with the US Air Force on F16s, F18s, B52s and the B1B – although it was reported that he suffered a little motion sickness while over the Grand Canyon.

Other flying roles have taken him up with most civilian display teams including “The Blades” led by Andy Offer and his team of ex-Red Arrow pilots, also Vic Norman’s Guinot Wingwalkers. Not to miss any opportunity he was even winched up by the Royal Navy and displayed with the Navy Black Cats helicopter team as well as the Sussex Police Helicopter.

To date his highlights have been two fly-bys over Buckingham Palace and the Lord Mayor’s Show in London.

Tony Hirons, the RAFA Corporate Communications Manager, said: “He was enjoying life so much that, after he re-appeared at last year’s Shoreham Airshow, we felt it would be nice for him to continue his travels. He was then seen flying off to RAF Cranwell in the Display Tucano and we gather he is currently making his way to RAF Leuchars. He has contacts in high places and could even be flying on Air Force One before too long!”

Boss Bear was donated by Bob Franklin who has been a supporter of the Shoreham Airshow for many years. Following this year’s RAFA Shoreham Airshow on August 30 and 31, the bear will be putting up his flying boots and looking for a suitable home with all his memorabilia.

John Periam added: “I know he is very keen to raise a lot of money for RAFA when this happens and we will be deciding nearer the time how we can do this, plus there has even been some interest in a book being published about his adventures!

“With seven months flying still left, his aim is to meet as many people as possible as he wants to make sure he beats as many records as he can!”

Raptor makes UK debut at Air Tattoo

Posted by Flightline UK on under Military Airshows | Be the First to Comment

The world’s most advanced jet fighter will make its UK debut at the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire this summer.
The F-22A Raptor, from the US Air Combat Command, represents a new generation of fighter aircraft incorporating state-of-the-art stealth technology, sophisticated weaponry and vectored thrust giving it an unrivalled combination of secrecy, power and manoeuvrability.
With a top speed of 1,140mph (Mach 1.72) and a range of almost 2,000 miles, the F-22A is capable of outperforming any existing fighter aircraft in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

Visitors to the Air Tattoo on July 12-13 will be the first in the UK to witness the precision aerial manoeuvres and unique capabilities of the world’s only operational fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Piloting the aircraft will be Major Paul ‘Max’ Moga from the Air Combat Command F-22A Demonstration Team based at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. Maj Moga, who has more than 250 combat hours, is the first F-22A demo pilot.

Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said the F-22A Raptor represented a giant leap forward in fighter aircraft capabilities and would set the standard for aerial combat for years to come.
“I am delighted that the US Air Force has chosen the Air Tattoo to demonstrate its latest fighter. British aircraft enthusiasts have been looking forward to seeing the F-22A for some time and I am delighted that this summer will see their wish come true.

“That the US Air Force has chosen the Air Tattoo to showcase its premier fighter demonstrates how significant our airshow is to military chiefs and aerospace companies across the world.”

The Royal International Air Tattoo is staged annually in support of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. This summer’s event will include official celebrations to mark the RAF’s 90th anniversary. For more details, visit http://www.airtattoo.com

Great Vintage Flying Weekend Cancelled

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A press release from the G-VFWE website has announced the sad cancellation of this popular event:-

“It is with the greatest regret that I must announce the CANCELLATION of this year’s G-VFWE. The event, planned for Hullavington Airfield from 16th-18th May, will NOT now take place.

All pilots and trade participants who have already booked in will shortly receive an official notification together with a refund of their monies – less a nominal amount for processing. Bookings received after 01/02/08 will receive their cheques back ‘uncashed’.

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL OTHER EVENTS WILL TAKE PLACE AS SCHEDULED SUBJECT TO ANY CHANGES BY THEIR RESPECTIVE ORGANISERS. PILOTS SHOULD CONTINUE TO REGISTER FOR THESE VENUES IN THE NORMAL WAY.

Every effort was made to keep G-VFWE ‘flying’ for another year but it was all, sadly, to be without any tangible success.Thank you for your support and interest.

Terry A. Booker, Ops Manager.”

French Air Force Alpha Jet Solo Display Dates 2008

Posted by Flightline UK on 08/02/2008 under Any other business | Be the First to Comment

Sadly there will be no displays by the French Air Force Alpha Jet in the UK this year.

USAF F-22A Demo Schedule 2008

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The following information has been released on airshowbuzz.com :-

March
6-9 Davis Monthan AFB, AZ Heritage Training
29 Tyndall AFB, FL
30 NAS Meridian, MS

April
26 Charleston AFB. SC

May
3-4 March ARB, CA
10-11 Pittsburgh, PA
16-18 Andrews AFB, MD
24-25 Jones Beach, NY

June
20-22 Langley AFB, VA
28-29 Elmendorf AFB, AK

July
11-13 Fairford, UK
14 Farnborough, UK
19-20 Dayton, OH

August
1-3 Oshkosh, WI
9-10 Fairchild AFB, WA
15-17 Chicago, IL
23-24 Greenfield, IN

September
6 Shaw AFB, SC
12-14 Reno, NV
20-21 NAS Oceana, VA

October
3-5 MCAS Miramar
18-19 Dobbins AFB, GA
25-26 Holloman AFB, NM

November
1-2 Lackland AFB, TX
8-9 Nellis AFB, NV

Sywell Airshow Latest

Posted by Flightline UK on 06/02/2008 under Civilian Organised Airshows and Trade Events | Be the First to Comment

The biannual show which returns on the 24th August 2008 is to be preceded by a Vintage Rag Wing Fly In on the 23rd August 2008. Details soon to be available on www.sywellairshow.co.uk

Keep checking the site for regular updates on booked acts, news and special guests!

New Country, New Cities and New Pilot for Red Bull Air Race World Series 2008

Posted by Flightline UK on under Red Bull Air Race | Be the First to Comment

Sweden was today unveiled as the latest country to host a round of the incredible Red Bull Air Race World Series. The announcement that a race will be held in Stockholm for the first time was made by Bernd Loidl (CEO) in the dramatic surrounds of Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport in Austria.

Bids from around the world were considered before the final calendar was decided. For the first time, Detroit will appear as the second city in America to host a round of the 2008 World Series. Spain will also host a race. In addition Rotterdam is back on the calendar after a successful Red Bull Air Race in the Dutch city in 2005.

Ten cities in all will make up the 2008 Red Bull Air Race World Series calendar with the traditional season opener in Abu Dhabi on the 10th and 11th of April. The remaining cities, who all hosted a round in 2007, are San Diego, London, Budapest, Porto and Perth.

“This is an exciting time for the Red Bull Air Race World Series. With an adapted race format, a selection of spectacular and diverse host cities and the world’s best pilots ready to battle it out, I’m looking forward to an incredible 2008 season,” said Loidl.

Each race will comprise two days of competition: Qualifying and Race Day. A new race format will see all twelve pilots compete on Race Day for the first time.

South African Glen Dell will make his debut in the Red Bull Air Race World Series in 2008, with Dutchman Frank Versteegh and German Klaus Schrodt retiring from the sport. This means that twelve of the world’s top pilots will contest the 2008 Red Bull Air Race World Series flying through the challenging, twisting race tracks just metres above the ground with points awarded for the fastest times and least number of penalties.

The overall winner will be crowned Red Bull Air Race World Champion after the season finale in Perth, Australia in November.

In 2007, there were four million spectators at the ten races held worldwide and over 400 million on television. In the Red Bull Air Race, the world’s best pilots reach speeds of 400 km/h, enduring forces of up to 10 Gs as they navigate a low-level aerial race track made up of air-filled pylons.

XXV (F) Squadron Enthusiasts Day

Posted by Flightline UK on 05/02/2008 under Royal Air Force | Be the First to Comment

Tickets are now available for the 25(F) Squadron Enthusaists Day on 29th March. Payment is voluntary with the suggested donation being £30. Visitors will not only get access to a photocall of RAF and NATO aircraft, but also access to a Hardened Aircraft Shelter completed with QRA Tornado F3 and a behind the scenes look at life at 25(F) Squadron. More details can be found on the events website:-

http://www.25squadron.org.uk/enthusiasts-Day/

Confirmed participants so far include:-

• 11(F) Squadron Typhoon F2/T1A
• 29(R) Squadron Typhoon F2/T1A
• IX(B) Squadron Tornado GR4
• 12(B) Squadron Tornado GR4
• 43(F) Squadron Tornado F3
• 100 Squadron Hawk T1
• 23 Squadron Sentry AEW1
• 55(R) Squadron Dominie T1

Amongst the aircraft invited there are some overseas participants including Norwegian and Belgian F-16s and French Mirage 2000D.

Spitfire at Thundersprint 2008

Posted by Flightline UK on 03/02/2008 under Royal Air Force | Be the First to Comment

Spitfire fans will have the chance to see this magnificent aircraft display in a unique setting right on the edge of Northwich, Cheshire, on Sunday May 11

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire will perform at Thundersprint 2008 – an incredible mix of classic motorcycle racing, street entertainment and fine food which takes over this pretty market town during the second weekend in May.

The Thundersprint festival has free admission, free parking and provides a packed day’s entertainment for the whole family. Turn one corner and there’s a 1960s Grand Prix star munching on a home made wild boar pie. Walk round the next and find thoroughbred classic race bikes mingling with Morris Dancers and Jazz bands: there’s no-where like the Thundersprint!

As the tension builds for the start of four hours of non-stop racing, the BBMF Spitfire roars across the sky in salute and the thunder of the mighty Merlin engine echoes from Marks and Spencer’s store wall! Truly, an unmissable experience for any fan of classic aircraft – and one which is absolutely unique to the Thundersprint.

Spectator entry to the Thundersprint is free, as is parking, but arriving early is recommended because Northwich gets very busy.

For more information visit www.thundersprint.com or 01928 740 498.

New colours for Breitling Jet Team

Posted by Flightline UK on under Display Team News and Dates | Be the First to Comment

Patrouille du Monde is reporting that as well as adding a further aircraft to thier display, the Breitling Jet Team will appear in a new colour scheme for the 2007 season. The team are due to visit the UK for the Biggin Hill International Air Fair over the 7th-8th June

Eastbourne Airbourne to charge admission?

Posted by Flightline UK on 02/02/2008 under Seaside Shows | Be the First to Comment

An article in the local Eastbourne News suggests that in future the public may have to pay admission to enter the seafront for Airbourne, Eastbounrne International Airshow. Charging for seafront airshows is nothing new in the UK. Southport has been doing so since 2002 and a similar scheme was run at Margate during the two years that the Kent Air Show was held.  The article says “Spectators will be charged to enter a fenced-off area at Airbourne in a bid to find the cash the council needs to provide public services.” In an opinion page, it goes on “No-one will like paying to be in the hub of Airbourne activity, but the entry fee is likely to be modest and is probably overdue for such excellent entertainment.”

2008 has certainly seen a tough start for organisers as we have already lost the Lydd airshow due to a lack of sponsorship or available funds. The Royal International Air Tattoo has also increased admission costs on top of introducing day specific tickets. Throughout the air display industry, costs have risen dramatically from all sides  (operators, insurance, policing etc.) though some enthusiasts have remained blinkered to the reality as has been evident on a number of enthusiast forums. Eastbourne is certainly one of the highlights of the UK display calendar and hopefully such as scheme would help safeguard the events future if introduced properly.

Patrulla Aguila Display Dates 2008

Posted by Flightline UK on 01/02/2008 under Any other business | Be the First to Comment

The Spanish Air Force Aerobatic Display Team, Patrulla Aguila, have released their display dates for 2008. Their only UK display is the RAF Waddington International Airshow in July.