Waddington International Airshow - June 26th and 27th 2004 By Tony

Photograph Gallery

I travelled to the Airshow with trepidation, as the weather forecast was for cloud and rain and the prospect of no flying loomed large. But here we are and all worries regarding the forecast were forgotten as I entered this hive of activity. As all aircraft/Airshow enthusiasts know, the noise and smell of fuel excites the senses and one hurries forward to spot the first aircraft.

Here at the static display is a feast of aircraft to admire and to be able to talk to the air crew about their aircraft and careers is a bonus. You are envious and proud of their achievements and dedication to the Royal Air Force. Now on to the flying display with the camera set to combat the drizzle, I get a great vantage point (see Flypast below).

First up are the Utterly Butterly pair of Stearmons, with the girls doing their wing walking routine, much to the delight of the crowd, who waved back to the daring duo.

Following on in rapid succession came the Tornado, Harrier and F16 Fighting Falcon of the Belgian Air Force, all bringing lots of noise and speed to thrill the spectators.

Also we had the pleasure of three aerobatic teams, the Italian Freece Tricolori, the Spanish Patrulla Agiula both national display teams. The top team without doubt was our own Red Arrows, celebrating its 40th year of displaying in 52 countries with perfection.

Other aircraft contributing to a fine show were the Gnat, Hunter and Nimrod, all of the older generation and so good to see again. Britain has produced some fine aircraft over the years and now in partnership with Germany, Italy and Spain comes the Euro fighter Typhoon. Yes, this aircraft flew at the show and what excitement it roused to see this latest fighter aircraft perform spectacularly.

I spoke to the display pilot Will Hock who was son enthusiastic about this aircraft. Reliability of the systems and engines has proven to be exceptional and in the air exceeding all expectations. This aircraft can outmanoeuvre any other fighter in service. Thanks, Will, for the fine display and for me the climax of a great day out.

RAFBF

Waddington International Airshow is organised for the benefit of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and the Royal Air Forces Association. If you would like to contribute a little cash to this important organisation, details can be found on the RAFBF website: Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund - www.rafbf.ork.uk Royal Air Forces Association - www.rafa.org.uk

Flypast

The vantage point mentioned at Waddington Airshow was the best spot on the airfield. Being a subscriber to the Flypast Magazine I'm able to use the facilities provided for club members. This is a position on the flight line with a marquee which is staffed by members of the Flypast team, serving members with coffee, tea, soft drinks and biscuits all day.

At Waddington the team doing this service was Adrian Cox and his wife Sally, a very pleasant and helpful couple. Thanks for your attention from all our members. Incidentally, Adrian is the Managing Director and publisher of Flypast. Check the website: www.flypast.com of this must buy magazine!

Photographs courtsey and Copyright © Tony thisisUll.com Check the thisisUll.com Photograph Gallery

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