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UK air events calendar 2009

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  All dates in italics are provisional. If your event isn't listed, please contact us with all the details.
  2009
  March
21 Elvington, N Yorks: Nightshoot! A night photo shoot will involve the Handley Page Victor K2 'Lusty Lindy' and the Museum's Blackburn Buccaneer S2. These Cold War veterans are both kept in immaculate condition and will be electrically powered up and the external lighting switched on to enable a unique view of these aircraft in a 'live' condition - a rare and interesting photographic opportunity for the general public and in particular aviation and photographic enthusiasts. The event is priced at £25 and tickets are available through the museum's Online Shop under tickets and donations or ring on 01904 608595: this includes admission to the museum, a visit to the Victors cockpit and to experience the view of these two classic British Cold War aircraft at night. All monies raised will be used for buying fuel for these two aircraft to enable them to continue to be run a living reminder of British design ingenuity and the Cold War for many more years to come.
  April
5 Elvington, N Yorks: Thunder Day. Live engine runs from the YAM's collection, plus of course the Victor.
11 Newark, Notts: Newark Air Museum Day-Night Photo Shoot. The event will commence after the museum closes at 5pm. The event will feature themed ground equipment; uniformed personnel; and illuminated aircraft. The aircraft being featured for this event will include: Vulcan, Shackleton, T33, Sea Vixen, MiG-23 & Buccaneer. Admission costs £20 per person and places will be limited to 30 people. Anyone interested is asked to email in for details via the museum website.
24-26

Fly2Help Aerobatic Challenge Weekend. Jason Phelan will be going loopy whilst working his way through as many aerobatic sequences as possible in aid of charity. Jason’s grand challenge is to hold onto his stomach whilst experiencing as many aerobatic routines, in as many varied aircraft, from as many airfields
as possible, all over one weekend. During this challenge each aerobatic manoeuvre will be counted to have a grand total by type and amount performed, whilst crossing the country to as many airfields that the challenge can be flown from.
  Jason first found out about fly2help when he met Mandy Pantall at Goodwood Aero Club earlier this year. “Mandy is the reason I have (madly!) challenged myself to do this. Mandy’s story inspired me to help them support those less fortunate than myself so that they too can experience the exhilaration and excitement of flight...and here I am!".The list of aircraft confirmed so far are:- fly2help - Chipmunk (Starting aircraft); Team Guinot - Boeing Stearman (Not a Wingwalking Flight); Pitts Special flown by Andrew Pritchard; Yakovlevs - Yak 52; Ultimate High - Extra 300; Goodwood Aeroclub - Harvard; Goodwood Aeroclub - Super Decathlon; Tiger Club CAP 10c; The Real Flying Company - Stampe SV4c; 2Excel Aviation Ltd / The Blades Extra 300LP (Final Aircraft); four more to be confirmed.
  Airfields include:- Kemble, RFC Rendcombe, Goodwood, Compton Abbas, Shoreham, Headcorn, RAF Halton & Sywell. Visitors are welcome at all venues. The main focus is to find a Sponsor or Sponsors for the event - if you can help please contact Jason on 07821 339180.
 
May
2-3 Rougham, Suffolk: Large Model Aircraft Show. Well worth a visit for some amazing R/C aircraft - check out the 2006 event here.
3 Abingdon, Oxon: Abingdon Air & Country Show. This annual Airshow/Country Show is in support of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, featuring an array of attractions including a three-hour afternoon flying display, static aircraft/fly-in, crafts, arena displays, Tank rides, hot air balloons, vintage vehicles, pleasure flights and much more. Check out the 2007 event here.
3 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Spring Air Display. First outing of the year for the Shuttleworth Collection. Check out the 2006 event here.
9-10 Kemble, Glos: Great Vintage Flying Weekend. A successful agreement has been reached with Kemble Air Services Ltd., as a result of which they now own the event and the G-VFWE brand. This takeover should, even in these uncertain times, ensure the event's future and its further development. Kemble Airfield itself has already been the venue for three previous stagings, and will prove to be a well-equipped and well-resourced base for future operations. Check out the 2007 event here.
9-10 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth MAYFLY Aeromodel weekend. The all grass airfield provides a stunning environment for model flying. Wether a novice or expert modeller there is always plenty of friendly advice and help on hand so go and join in the fun. There are many trade stands selling a wide range of modelling materials and equipment available.
10 Northwich, Cheshire: Thundersprint 2009 - Spitfire Around the Town Centre. Spitfire fans will have the chance to see this magnificent aircraft display in a unique setting. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire will perform at Thundersprint 2009 - an incredible mix of classic motorcycle racing, street entertainment and fine food which takes over this pretty market town. The Thundersprint festival has completely free admission, and 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 around the next and find thoroughbred classic race bikes mingling with Morris Dancers and Jazz bands: there's nowhere like the Thundersprint!
  The Thundersprint attracts many stars and celebrities but there are none more popular than the relaxed and charming James May, co-presenter of the BBC's Top Gear programme. Although an expert on cars, and renowned for his hilariously laconic assessments of all that's new in the world of four wheels, James is a dedicated bike fan and rates the Thundersprint as one of his favourite events of the year. James will return with his mighty 1964, 87cc Honda which produces a breathtaking 6.5 bhp. James will line up with six times World Champion Jim Redman and Double World Champion, James Toseland. May says 'When I crest Castle Hill in Northwich in my borrowed van, and see the town spread out below me like Camelot, I will know that my faithful charger, the 87cc Honda C200, has arrived at its spiritual home." Asked about his racing achievements on the mighty Honda, James listed doing 45mph on the A4, changing the oil and finishing a very close next to last in the 2007 Thundersprint. Truly,'Mad Dog May', as James likes to be known when he is racing, will bring a very special presence to the Thundersprint start line.
  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. The Thundersprint is very family friendly and welcomes well-behaved pets - and children. Facilities for the disabled are excellent with free parking right in the centre of the show. For more information visit www.thundersprint.com or 'phone 01928 740 498.
16 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth First Evening Air Display. First evening bash of the year. Check out the 2007 event here.
17 Duxford, Cambs: Spring airshow. Traditionally the season-opening airshow, check out the 2008 show here.
23-24 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Aeromodelling trade show. Many trade stands selling a wide range of modelling materials and equipment.
24-25 Southend-on-Sea, Essex: Southend Airshow. A chance to soak up the early summer sun by the sea and catch some entertaining flying. Check out the 2008 show here.
 
June
6 Perth, Pertshire: Heart of Scotland Airshow. The "Heart of Scotland Airshow" is to be held at Perth/Scone Airfield and organised by members of the Scottish Aero Club, airport owner Morris Leslie, airport resident Air Charter Scotland along with Angus-based business Squadron Prints Ltd. The event is still at the planning stage but there will certainly be some major attractions to enthral the public. Aircraft from all over Scotland have been invited to take part including that of the Royal Air Force. Profits from the event will be donated to the RAF Benevolent Fund, celebrating its 90th year, and local Scone Charities.
  A fun day out for all the family is planned and a website (www.perthairshow.co.uk) will be up and running within the next two weeks where advanced tickets will be available to purchase on line. Traders/exhibitors and interested parties wishing to take part in this event are asked to e-mail: perthairshow@yahoo.co.uk or call Gill on 01241 437555. For other airshow enquiries: airshow@scottishareoclub.org.uk Tel 01738 550055.
7 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Summer Air Display. Costumes and a garden party atmosphere at Old Warden.
8 RAF Northolt, Middx: Photocall. Following the success of the last three years, the 2009 is on Sunday with tickets available on-line. Check out the 2008 day here.
12-14 Wycombe Air Park, Bucks: AeroExpo 2009. This event will showcase ALL sections of the market, including the latest Aircraft available - from light aircraft, or Pistons and Turboprops from all the major manufacturers, to Gliders and Power Gliders; AeroExpo has them covered. Demonstrations for aircraft can be booked prior to the show.
13-14 Newark, Notts: Newark Air Museum Cockpit-Fest 2009 & Aeroboot. Annual display of visiting cockpits from around the country & the traditional Aeroboot avionics and aviation goods sale. Check out the 2007 event here.
14 RAF Cosford, West Mids: At Home Day 2009. One of the RAF's main airshows this year, expect it to be busy. As usual, the museum will still be open. RAF Cosford Air Show is one of the biggest outdoor events in the Midlands' summer calendar and regularly attracts an attendance of more than 50,000. Two RAF charities are the main beneficiaries - the Royal Air Force Association and the RAF Benevolent Fund. Check out the 2008 show here.
20 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Evening Air Display. Second evening bash of the year.
20-21 Kemble, Glos: Kemble Air Days. Now one of the established airshows on the calendar, it's now a two-day event for the first time. Check out the 2007 show here.
20-21 Margate, Kent: Margate's Big Event. Make sure you don't miss Kent’s Leading Air and Land Festival. Once again offering two days of thrilling free entertainment, back for 2009. A full flying display each day alongside exciting arena acts, and some of the countries top street entertainers. Live music, a food and drink village and much much more, make this event an unmissable day out for the whole family.
27-28 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth SAM Aeromodel weekend. Large-scale R/C models take to the air.
27-28 Rougham, Suffolk: Wings Wheels & Steam Country Fair. Vehicles and aircraft mixed together.
27-28 Biggin Hill, Kent: Biggin Hill International Air Fair. One of the airshow circuit's oldest events now moves to a late June slot. Check out the 2008 show here.
 
July
4-5 RAF Waddington, Lincs: RAF Waddington 2009. The RAF's main event of the year. Check out the 2008 show here.
4-5 Yatton, Bristol: Woodspring Wings Show 2009. The south-west's premier model and full size airshow, includes Model Trade stands, Craft stands, Refreshments & Food, Helicopter rides, Side shows.
5 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Military Pageant Air Display with Naval feature. Another event to celebrate a centenary of naval Aviation.
11 RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset: International Air Day. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Naval Aviation in 1909, the Fleet Air Arm will be joined by other nations. There'll be plenty of entertainment on the ground, too, for all the family. A large display of static aircraft is planned with arena displays from the Royal Marines Band and HMS Heron's Field Gun Crew. The day will also include side shows, funfair, vintage, classic and military vehicles, service demonstrations, picnic areas, helicopter pleasure flights, simulator rides, trade stands and much more. Check out the 2008 show here.
11-12 Duxford, Cambs: Flying Legends Air Show. Organised by The Fighter Collection, this is the premier warbird airshow in Europe. Flying Legends features a matchless selection of classic American and European fighters - the veterans, the pilots, the aircraft and the atmosphere are all her in this wonderful two-day action and entertainment experience. Check out the 2007 show here.
18 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Summer Evening Air Display & LAA Party in the Park. Third evening bash of the year.
18-19 RAF Fairford, Glos: Royal International Air Tattoo. Despite the disaster of a cancelled show in 2008, the show should still go on as the 'biggy' of the year - expect the airshow world to revolve around Gloucestershire this weekend. Check out the 2007 show here.
23-24
Lowestoft, Suffolk: Seafront Air Festival. A new organising committee supported by the local council have saved this wonderful event, with 220,000 attending in 2008! The sun is usually right behind at this time of year giving superb photo opportunities from the cliffs. Check out the 2008 event here.
24-26 Eastchurch, Kent: Sky Sheppey 2009. On Friday 24 July a formation of current and historic aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm will fly over Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, the birthplace of Naval Aviation and home of the first Royal Naval Air Station. The Royal Navy flypast will be the opening event of Sky Sheppey 2009, a weekend of flying displays, events and exhibitions celebrating 100 years of British Aviation. The formation of aircraft is expected to include both current and historic types, with aircraft from frontline and training squadrons, as well as from the Royal Navy Historic Flight.
25 East Fortune, Edinburgh: National Museum of Flight Airshow. The National Museum of Flight’s only air display. In the afternoon there will be more than two hours of breathtaking, high octane aerial displays, ranging from historic warbirds to contemporary military jets.
25-26 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Scale Aeromodel weekend. Large-scale R/C models take to the air.
25-26 Dover, Kent: Bleriot - the Celebration. A historic recreation of Blériot's flight across the English Channel by the distinguished Swedish pilot, Mikael Carlson, flying one of his two Blériot XI aeroplanes, courtesy of Shell Aviation; a procession of aeroplanes flying from Calais to Dover that will form part of an Air Pageant commemorating 100 years of aviation; participation by the Royal Air Force featuring, amongst others, the famous Red Arrows.
25-26 Bowness on Windermere, Cumbria: Windermere Airshow. Perhaps the most fabulous setting for an airshow in the UK?
25-26 Sunderland, Tyne & Wear: Sunderland International Airshow. Another one by the sea, better weather than 2008 will be hoped for when the event was effectively cancelled! Check out the 2007 event here.
29
RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall: International Air Day. A good line-up, if the weather co-operates....which it often fails to do, as 2008 proved! Check out the 2007 event here.
 
August
1 East Kirkby, Lincs: RAFBF Airshow. East Kirkby's first 'proper' airshow will see a number of warbirds support local Lancaster NX611 in celebrating the 90th anniversary of the RAFBF. More details soon.
2 Elvington, N Yorks: Thunder Day. Live engine runs from the YAM's collection, plus of course the Victor.
2 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Military Pageant Air Display. Costumes and a garden party atmosphere at Old Warden.
8
Duxford, Cambs: Spitfire Day. Expect lots of...um...Spitfires at this event to celebrate Supermarine's finest.
13-16
Eastbourne, Sussex: Airbourne 2009. The South Coast's biggest airshow is now under threat - after a decision to charge in 2008, the show now faces a £170k loss as spectators stayed behind the fences. If the 2009 event does go ahead, it is likely to be smaller than previous years. Check out the 2008 event here.
15 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Evening Air Display. Fourth evening bash of the year.
15-16 Rougham, Suffolk: SGR FM Air Display & Classic Car Show 2009. Rougham's main event of the year - check out the 2008 event here.
20
Dawlish, Devon: Dawlish Carnival Airshow. Thanks to organiser Kev Wills, this seaside show goes from strength to strength - check out the 2008 event here.
20-23
Bournemouth, Dorset: Bournemouth Air Festival. Set against the backdrop of Bournemouth’s seven miles of award-winning beaches, beautiful bay and glorious gardens. Celebrating the history of aviation, embracing the nostalgia of the early flying machines combined with the energy and excitement of flying right through to the modern day, the Air Festival is packed full of breathtaking air displays, interactive static displays, fun attractions, demonstrations and stalls, fireworks, music and live entertainment for all the family. Check out the 2008 event here.
21 Duxford, Cambs: American Air Day. Following a successful first two events in '07 & '08, the American Forces from RAF Mildenhall and Lakenheath will be demonstrating aircraft and equipment. Check out the 2008 event here.
22 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Original Flying Proms Concert. Music and machines in harmony.
22-23
Shoreham, Sussex: Shoreham Airshow 2009. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, it's Shore to be the biggest & best yet! Check out the 2008 show here.
27 RAF Valley, Anglesey: Charity Photocall. Your chance to get up close & personal in Anglesey - check out the 2008 event here.
27-28 Clacton-on-Sea, Essex: Clacton Airshow. Another regular seafront venue, head to the Martello tower for the best vantage point.
30 Dunsfold, Surrey: Wings & Wheels 2008. Traditionally a Hawker aircraft themed show, check out the 2007 event here.
30
Little Gransden, Cambs: Families Day out Air and Vintage Vehicle show. Definitely the longest title of the year, the event supports Children in Need and other charities. Check out the 2007 show here.
 
September
5-6
Duxford, Cambs: 2009 Airshow. IWM's main event of the year. Check out the 2008 show here.
5-6 Cosby, Leics: Victory Show. A victim of 2008's dreadful 'summer', this event combines re-enactments with airshow action.
6 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Pageant Air Display. Main airshow of the year, if you haven't been yet, there's no excuse...
10
Guernsey, Channel Islands: RAFA Guernsey Battle of Britain Air Display 2009. Location: off St. Peter Port. Offshore free-to-view air display, organised as part of RAFA Guernsey's Battle of Britain Week. The event is supported by a consortium of local businesses, and 100% the donations received during the week pass to the RAFA. The display arena is one of the most picturesque in Britain, with the smaller islands of Sark and Herm as a backdrop. Why not combine a short break in Guernsey with the display?
10
Jersey, Channel Islands: Jersey International Air Display. A free event comprising of both fixed and rotary static displays and a four hour concentrated flying display over the Bay of St Aubin adjacent to the Island capital St Helier. Check out the 2008 show here.
12
RAF Leuchars, Fife: Leuchars International Airshow. Back after a break in '07, they drew the short straw with the weather in '08 - check out the event here.
12-13 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Festival of Flight Aeromodel weekend. Large-scale R/C models take to the air.
19-20 Kemble, Glos: Kemble Battle of Britain Weekend. Rebranded from the original Kemble Open Days this event plans a flying display over both days with the aerodrome open for fly-in visitors during the morning. More details on the www.kemble.com events page. Contact events@kemble.com or 09063 023320
26 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Sunset Air Display & Meet the Pilots. Last evening show of the year.
26-27 Southport, Lancs: Airshow 2009. One of the North-west's top attractions, RAF participation should be high on the agenda. Check out the 2008 show here.
 
October
3-4 Rougham, Suffolk: Ploughs to Propellers 1940s weekend. Warbirds and period dress.
4 Old Warden, Beds: Shuttleworth Autumn Air Display. Last chance to catch those flimsy biplanes.
11
Duxford, Cambs: Autumn Air Show. Some early autumn sun can make this a fine event to attend - check out the 2008 show here.
18 Elvington, N Yorks: Thunder Day. Live engine runs from the YAM's collection, plus of course the Victor.
     

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