2012 UK Airshow Season Review

The season starts in style.The annual Abingdon Air & Country Show was the sole 2012 airshow season opener, an honour it usually shares with Old Warden’s Shuttleworth Collection, in May.

Sadly, a period of heavy rain in the run-up to the show forced Old Warden to cancel its curtain-raiser, and not only was Abingdon blessed with some additional participation, as a result of that cancellation, but also enjoyed a dry day, with some early summer sunshine.

TheThe show usually sees the Royal Air Force’s training assets make their first public displays and 2012 was no different, with Tutor, Hawk, Tucano (in its spectacular Queen’s Jubilee scheme) and King Air, all in attendance.

TheThe Catalina was a most welcome addition and, along with the likes of C-47 Skytrain ‘Drag-‘Em-Oot’ (which flew with the Avro Anson), larger-scale participants were well-represented.

Elliott Marsh

Abingdon gave the public their first chance to see the 2012 RAF solo displays in action - here, the Tutor and Tucano cross paths (Gareth Stringer)

The Catalina lifts off against the imposing backdrop of Didcot Power Station (Chris Wood)

The season starts in style.The annual Abingdon Air & Country Show was the sole 2012 airshow season opener, an honour it usually shares with Old Warden’s Shuttleworth Collection, in May.

The ever-popular Breitling Wingwalkers debuted their 2012 display sequence, as did the TRIG Aerobatic Team with its two Pitts Specials.

A single BBMF Spitfire , Peter Vacher’s Hawker Hurricane and a stunning display from P-51 ‘Ferocious Frankie’ kept warbird fans happy, while Will Greewood brought his Bucker Bestmann out to a UK show for the first time. He joined a Bucker Jungmeister, flown by Alex Smee, while Jez Cooke, in the Miles Whitney Straight, added to the rarity value.

"Our Abingdon Show, at the beginning of May, went well and contained more of a historic mix while trying to vary the show as a whole package. As well as giving the RAF its first public demos of the season, we merely plod on to try and give our audience a good day out and have raised some £45,800 for charity since 2001" - Neil Porter, Event Organiser.

Left - Star of the static, the Royal Netherlands Air Force Pilatus PC-7 catches some rays (Elliott Marsh)

Bottom-left - The Avro XIX Anson is an all-too-rare display act and its appearance at Abingdon was very welcome indeed (Chris Wood)

Top-left - Tony de Bruyn's OV-10B Bronco heads for home in glorious post-show light (Chris Wood)

Beautiful light as Will Greenwood taxies out in the Bestmann at the end of the show (Elliott Marsh)

Abingdon also featured a number of aircraft on static display, notably including a RNLAF Pilatus PC-7 and RAF Merlin from nearby Benson.

The 2012 season was underway and Abingdon was a fine way to kick things off.

Duxford Jubilee Air Show

Heading the bill was the first 2012 appearance by Renaud 'Grat' Thys in the Belgian Air Component F-16 Fighting Falcon in a very well-received outing; the F-16 was complimented in the foreign military ranks by UK début of the French display team Cartouche Dore, flying Socata TB-30 Epsilon trainers.

Still going strongTheThe Imperial War Museum Duxford enjoyed some sweltering weather this season, and some equally scorching flying displays. Duxford played host to four airshows in 2012, starting with May's Jubilee Air Show, with the theme clearly focused around the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympics.

Duxford Jubilee Air Show

Shaun Schofield

Above - The UK debut of Cartouche Dore was quite a coup for Duxford! (John Higgins)

Below - Literally adding international flair to the show, Duxford hosted the first public appearance of the Belgian F-16 in it's striking new colour scheme (Shaun Schofield)

27 May

Heading the bill was the first 2012 appearance by Renaud 'Grat' Thys in the Belgian Air Component F-16 Fighting Falcon in a very well-received outing; the F-16 was complimented in the foreign military ranks by UK début of the French display team Cartouche Dore, flying Socata TB-30 Epsilon trainers.

Above - Dan Griffith in the Meteor T7 - man and machine in perfect harmony (John Higgins)

Top-rightTop-right - Duxford's season got underway with a bang courtesy of Sqn Ldr Scott Loughran displaying the RAF Typhoon in 6 Sqn colours (Shaun Schofield)

RightRight - There are few finer ways to close a Duxford airshow than with a trio of Spitfires (Shaun Schofield)

Left - A Sea King made a rare appearance in honour of Prince William's service on the type (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Dan Griffith in the Meteor T7 - man and machine in perfect harmony (John Higgins)

Top-rightTop-right - Duxford's season got underway with a bang courtesy of Sqn Ldr Scott Loughran displaying the RAF Typhoon in 6 Sqn colours (Shaun Schofield)

RightRight - There are few finer ways to close a Duxford airshow than with a trio of Spitfires (Shaun Schofield)

Left - A Sea King made a rare appearance in honour of Prince William's service on the type (Shaun Schofield)

Equally popular with the crowds was Dan Griffith's superb performance in The Classic Aircraft Trust's (now known as the ‘Classic Air Force’) beautiful Gloster Meteor T7, flown with his usual panache and elegance.

HelpingHelping to celebrate the Jubilee theme were several aircraft with Royal ties, including the de Havilland Dragon Rapide, a pair of de Havilland Chipmunks and an Avro XIX Anson. A Sea King from 22 Sqn, RAF Wattisham, also dropped in, representative of the helicopters flown by Prince William in active duty.

ClosingClosing the show was a lovely three-ship Spitfire sequence, flown by aerial maestros Brian Smith, Paul Bonhomme and Pete Kynsey against a clear blue late afternoon sky.

Ever-popular seaside airshow fights the weather – and wins!Dawlish Air Show is a very special event for the UK airshow calendar. Not only is it hugely popular, but it is also free, despite receiving no significant financial backing from its local authorities or sponsorship from elsewhere.

Dawlish Air Show

All Dawlish images Shaun Schofield

The weather hasn’t been kind to Dawlish for the past few years and once again it looked decidedly ropey for the 2012 show. But, despite being very windy, the vast majority of acts made it down to the South West and Dawlish once again attracted a large crowd, all of who enjoyed a number of military and civilian performers.performers.

Ever-popular seaside airshow fights the weather – and wins!Dawlish Air Show is a very special event for the UK airshow calendar. Not only is it hugely popular, but it is also free, despite receiving no significant financial backing from its local authorities or sponsorship from elsewhere.

The RAF King Air display has become a regular attendee at Dawlish in recent seasons.

John Beattie is a seasoned performer at Dawlish, displaying Kennet's T-6 Texan in 2012.

Dawlish Air Show 8 June

Above - Sweeping across the bay, the Red Arrows always provide the undoubted highlight of the show.

Top-right - Making their Dawlish debut were the Royal Navy Blackcats, including one of the special painted Lynx.

RightRight - Despite the blustery conditions, the SWIP Team performed a typically polished display.

Left - Arriving in style, Red 10, Sqn Ldr Mike Ling, drops into the static park at the Smugglers Inn.

Above - Sweeping across the bay, the Red Arrows always provide the undoubted highlight of the show.

Top-right - Making their Dawlish debut were the Royal Navy Blackcats, including one of the special painted Lynx.

RightRight - Despite the blustery conditions, the SWIP Team performed a typically polished display.

Left - Arriving in style, Red 10, Sqn Ldr Mike Ling, drops into the static park at the Smugglers Inn.

Dawlish Air Show 2013 will take place in a new slot in the calendar on Saturday, 24 August

The Royal Navy Black Cats made their Dawlish debut, 771 NAS brought a Sea King from Culdrose, John Beattie displayed Kennet’s T-6 Texan, The Blades put on a stunning performance and the show was closed by the venue’s all-time favourites – the Royal Air Force Red Arrows.

No RAF show would be complete without the grace and poignancy of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Shaun Schofield)

Cosford's stand out moment for many was the chance to witness a live taxy courtesy of one of the Defence College's Jaguars (Shaun Schofield)

Main - Sqn Ldr Scott Loughran, 2012 Typhoon Display Pilot, gives this 6 Sqn Typhoon a thorough work-out (Karl Drage)

The Army Air Corps Apache is always a popular addition to any flying display programme (Karl Drage)

The programme mixed civilian and military performers extremely well with Classic Air Force’s Meteor T7, in the brilliant hands of Dan Griffith, putting on an especially superb show. With aerobatics from teams like the RV8TORS and TRIG Aerobatic Team, warbirds such as the Hurricane and P-40 and even an appearance from the venerable RAF VC10, the show flowed very nicely (despite one very heavy rain shower!) with more than enough to keep everyone happy.

OnceOnce again the Belgium Air Component supported the event, this time with its Agusta A109E, and hopefully 2012 will mark the beginning of renewed support for a show which holds an important place on the airshow calendar.

Above - Adding an international flavour to proceedings was the smartly painted Belgian Agusta A109 (Shaun Schofield)

RightRight - A real coup for the show, Cosford was able to secure a VC10 for two flypasts, a rare treat in the type’s twilight years (Gareth Stringer)

LeftLeft - Cosford is all about variety - as the Jungmeister taxis in, the Great War Display Team waste no time getting airborne (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - With the utmost professionalism, the RV8TORS performed a typically precise routine in dire weather conditions (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Adding an international flavour to proceedings was the smartly painted Belgian Agusta A109 (Shaun Schofield)

RightRight - A real coup for the show, Cosford was able to secure a VC10 for two flypasts, a rare treat in the type’s twilight years (Gareth Stringer)

LeftLeft - Cosford is all about variety - as the Jungmeister taxis in, the Great War Display Team waste no time getting airborne (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - With the utmost professionalism, the RV8TORS performed a typically precise routine in dire weather conditions (Shaun Schofield)

Air Day delivers in the face of adversity

An enforced change of date brought Air Day 2012 in line with Florennes, Belgium’s main military airshow, yet, despite this, the team at Yeovilton managed to line-up a stellar list of display items for the show and was very close to securing a number of others as well.

YEOVILTON AIR DAY

One of the stars of the static display, the Aeronavale Rafale M departs Yeovilton in typically noisy fashion (Shaun Schofield)

Shaun Schofield

A number of cancellations were undoubtedly disappointing, almost any show would have been hurting had it lost the likes of two Aéronavale Rafales and the NH90 Caiman’s UK debut from its flying display line-up, and that’s exactly what happened to Yeovilton.

However,However, the likes of the Saudi Hawks, An-124 Ruslan (a late addition and a real coup), solo examples of Hawker Hunter, Gloster Meteor, de Havilland Venom and de Havilland Vampire kept things ticking over very nicely.

YEOVILTON AIR DAY RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset23 June 2012

Top-right - The aerobatic genius that is Gerald Cooper flew his XtremeAir XA41 in Air Day 2012’s flying display programme. Later in the year he would win the European Freestyle Aerobatic Championship gold medal (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - Also making their Air Day debut were the Saudi Hawks, bringing a welcome injection of international colour and flair (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - A real coup for the show was a rare appearance from the monstrous An-124, making the type's Air Day debut (Shaun Schofield)

“Despite the poor weather leading up to the event and the last minute cancellations, Yeovilton still managed to put on a decent show with naval role demos accompanied with pyrotechnics and a good selection of classic jets and historics. A rare and hugely impressive appearance by an Antonov An-124 was certainly a highlight along with the Saudi Hawks’ Air Day debut. We struggled with fast jet participation this year but we are confident it won’t be an issue when we return to our usual July slot in 2013.” - Ralph Patel, Director, AHA Events

Chris Heames taxies Jubilee-tailed G-FFOX following a pre-show practice display, with Neil McCarthy alongside him (Gareth Stringer)

Top-right - The aerobatic genius that is Gerald Cooper flew his XtremeAir XA41 in Air Day 2012’s flying display programme. Later in the year he would win the European Freestyle Aerobatic Championship gold medal (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - Also making their Air Day debut were the Saudi Hawks, bringing a welcome injection of international colour and flair (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - A real coup for the show was a rare appearance from the monstrous An-124, making the type's Air Day debut (Shaun Schofield)

The show was well-supported by the Royal Air Force, with a particularly explosive GR4 role demo just one contribution, and the AAC which brought its spectacular Lynx AH7 solo display.“Despite the poor weather leading up to the event and the last minute cancellations, Yeovilton still managed to put on

a decent show with naval role demos accompanied with pyrotechnics and a good selection of classic jets and historics. A rare and hugely impressive appearance by an Antonov An-124 was certainly a highlight along with the Saudi Hawks’ Air Day debut. We struggled with fast jet participation this year but we are confident it won’t be an issue when we return to our usual July slot in 2013.” - Ralph Patel, Director, AHA Events

Chris Heames taxies Jubilee-tailed G-FFOX following a pre-show practice display, with Neil McCarthy alongside him (Gareth Stringer)

Top-right - The USAF made a welcome return to Air Day, bringing along an HH-60G Pave Hawk for the first time (Shaun Schofield)

AboveAbove - Showing off the imposing weaponry on board this Lynx hovers close to the crowd as it takes part in the Lynx Maritime Demo (Huw Hopkins)

LeftLeft - A Sea King puts on an impressive display of flares during the Commando Assault, Air Day's pièce de résistance (Huw Hopkins)

Top-right - The USAF made a welcome return to Air Day, bringing along an HH-60G Pave Hawk for the first time (Shaun Schofield)

AboveAbove - Showing off the imposing weaponry on board this Lynx hovers close to the crowd as it takes part in the Lynx Maritime Demo (Huw Hopkins)

LeftLeft - A Sea King puts on an impressive display of flares during the Commando Assault, Air Day's pièce de résistance (Huw Hopkins)

Yeovilton is famous for its setpieces and unique formations; 2012 saw the RNHF Swordfish lead a formation with four based Lynx (Shaun Schofield)

The home team, the Royal Navy, really knows how to put on a show, with Lynx Maritime demo - complete with a rogue intruder, a Grob Tutor - the Black Cats, Royal Navy Historic Flight (RNHF) and of course the always-amazing Commando Assault to wrap things up.

Winner of the best flying display was none of the above – it was Gerald Cooper in his Xtreme Air SBach 300. Absolutely, jaw-droppingly amazing - and very well-deserved.

WellWell done Yeovilton – a bit more luck next year and it should be a classic.

Duxford ‘Flying Legends’July's Flying Legends Air Show was another strong event, albeit one which is unlikely to be remembered as a classic. Undoubted stars of the show were the Flying Bulls' P-38 Lightning, the bizarre, yet uniquely charismatic, Sikorsky S-38 amphibian and a trio of Spitfire Mk1s.

Flying Legends also boasted the usual rip-roaring tailchases that are synonymous with the event, none more so impactful than the three-ship sequences of Yak-3, Yak-9 and Yak-11, and the Curtiss lineage set piece of Hawk 75, P-40B Warhawk and P-40F Kittyhawk.

Above - A Spitfire Mk.I sits at rest on the Duxford grass (Huw Hopkins)

Above - One of the star turns of Flying Legends 2012 was the appearance from the unusual Sikorsky S-38 - certainly a case of function over form! (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Richard Grace at the helm of Yak-3 'White 100', really putting the boot in here (Elliott Marsh)

Huw Hopkins

Duxford ‘Flying Legends’30 June /1 July

July's Flying Legends Air Show was another strong event, albeit one which is unlikely to be remembered as a classic. Undoubted stars of the show were the Flying Bulls' P-38 Lightning, the bizarre, yet uniquely charismatic, Sikorsky S-38 amphibian and a trio of Spitfire Mk1s.

Above - Red Bull's P-38L Lightning puts on a graceful display of aerobatics set against a typical English summer sky (Huw Hopkins)

Top-rightTop-right - Steve Hinton performs a run and break following an evening sortie in Spitfire MkI X4650 - one of the stars of the show (Huw Hopkins)

LeftLeft - TFC's Curtiss fighters, including the P-40F, performed a supreme beat-up of the airfield- the epitome of all that is great about Legends (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Red Bull's P-38L Lightning puts on a graceful display of aerobatics set against a typical English summer sky (Huw Hopkins)

Top-rightTop-right - Steve Hinton performs a run and break following an evening sortie in Spitfire MkI X4650 - one of the stars of the show (Huw Hopkins)

LeftLeft - TFC's Curtiss fighters, including the P-40F, performed a supreme beat-up of the airfield- the epitome of all that is great about Legends (Shaun Schofield)

The 2012 airshow offered the traditional blend of fast-paced warbird action and the chance to see a host of British and European vintage aircraft that you seldom see elsewhere in mainland UK, let alone being presented in such an exciting manner. Flying Legends continues to thrill and astound.

30 June & 1 July

RoKAF Black Eagles win hearts and minds on European debutIt would be easy to say that RAF Waddington’s International Airshow was all about the Black Eagles and its eight T-50 supersonic jet trainers, but in reality the show had a whole lot more to offer.

WADDINGTONINTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW

Main - Karl Drage, right - John Higgins

The Black Eagles, making their European debut, were however a major highlight, and captured everyone’s attention, not just with a thrilling and very cleverly put together routine, but with their overall likeability and supremely engaging attitude.

WADDINGTONINTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW

Above - Swiss precision flying from the solo F/A-18C Hornet, which won wide acclaim from many enthusiasts over the Waddington weekend (Glenn Beasley)

Top-rightTop-right - The Saudi Hawks lined up and ready to roll for their display, adding yet more overseas flavour to the Waddington flying display (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - Looking right into the cockpit of the solo pilot of the Polish Air Force’s Team Orlik (Karl Drage)

Left - Nine of the Aermacchi MB339s of the Italian Air Force display team, the Frecce Tricolori, trail the colours of their national flag (Karl Drage)

Above - Swiss precision flying from the solo F/A-18C Hornet, which won wide acclaim from many enthusiasts over the Waddington weekend (Glenn Beasley)

Top-rightTop-right - The Saudi Hawks lined up and ready to roll for their display, adding yet more overseas flavour to the Waddington flying display (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - Looking right into the cockpit of the solo pilot of the Polish Air Force’s Team Orlik (Karl Drage)

Left - Nine of the Aermacchi MB339s of the Italian Air Force display team, the Frecce Tricolori, trail the colours of their national flag (Karl Drage)

Other highlights – Cpt Ralph ‘Deasy’ Knittel in the Swiss Air Force F/A-18 Hornet put on a blistering display which showed that the relatively ‘old’ Hornet is still a force to be reckoned with. Italy’s Frecce Tricolori, Poland’s Team Orlik and the Saudi Hawks all flew the flag for their respective nations in what was an impressively full display programme with just one civilian act – The Blades.

Above - 8 Squadron opens the show. There aren't many places you can see an E-3D Sentry displayed with such gusto, other than the RAF Waddington International Airshow (Glenn Beasley)

Top-rightTop-right - The Royal Netherlands Air Force F-16 solo display, flown by Capt Stefan 'Stitch' Hutten, traces ribbons across the sky during Sunday’s display (Karl Drage)

RightRight - Landing after a practice display, this Royal New Zealand Air Force 757-200 made a welcome return to the Waddington flying display (Glenn Beasley)

The Saab 105 is operated by only two nations, Austria and Sweden, and here the Austrian Air Force’s tiger-schemed special is seen getting airborne to display (Karl Drage)

Above - 8 Squadron opens the show. There aren't many places you can see an E-3D Sentry displayed with such gusto, other than the RAF Waddington International Airshow (Glenn Beasley)

Top-rightTop-right - The Royal Netherlands Air Force F-16 solo display, flown by Capt Stefan 'Stitch' Hutten, traces ribbons across the sky during Sunday’s display (Karl Drage)

RightRight - Landing after a practice display, this Royal New Zealand Air Force 757-200 made a welcome return to the Waddington flying display (Glenn Beasley)

“The largest of the RAF-sponsored airshows, the RAF Waddington International Air Show guarantees an entertaining and enthralling day out for the family and enthusiasts’ alike. The 2012 show saw a 7 ½ hr flying programme with six international display teams and variety of engaging and interactive ground exhibits.” - Paul Sall, Airshow Director.

The full complement of Royal Air Force displays, including an E-3D Sentry solo routine, was at the fore, as you would expect for RAF Waddington, and they were joined by the likes of Dutch F-16, RNZAF Boeing 757, Czech Air Force L159 ALCA and Austrian Saab 105OE.

Above - The matte black scheme carried by the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s fleet of three Falcon 20s, operated by 717 Skv from Rygge (Karl Drage)

Above - 100 Sqn applied a commemorative scheme to two of its Hawk T1s to mark the squadron’s 95th anniversary (Karl Drage)

Main - Poland supported the show with an Air Force C295M (foreground) and a Navy M28 Bryza (right) (Karl Drage)

Above - Despite its outwardly military appearance, this Gazelle AH1 is now privately owned (Karl Drage)

Above - Making what is likely to be its last appearance at a Waddington show, was the classic shape of this F-4 Phantom II of the German Air Force (Glenn Beasley)

RAF Waddington International Airshow 2013 will take place 6 & 7 July

Above - One of the stars of the static was this Algerian Air Force C-130H from 2 Wing at Boufarik (Karl Drage)

Main - Poland supported the show with an Air Force C295M (foreground) and a Navy M28 Bryza (right) (Karl Drage)

Above - An extremely rare visitor to the UK was this Swedish Saab S-100D Argus (340SEW) which was present on static display (Glenn Beasley)

Above - A highlight of the static park was this Boeing 737 Wedgetail, making its first UK appearance (John Higgins)

Despite one or two hiccups, such as the 3(F) Squadron anniversary Typhoon being almost hidden, the static display was generally much improved upon from previous showings, especially the circular line-up to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Central Flying School.

SurelySurely a highlight for many in the static was the specially marked German Air Force F-4F Phantom, sadly making its last visit to Waddington before retiring within the next few months.

RAFRAF Waddington really does seem to be improving year on year and the bar for 2013 has been well and truly raised.

Above - Arguable star of the 2012 UK airshow season, the Republic of Korea Air Force Black Eagles display team (Gareth Stringer)

Top-rightTop-right - Making their first UK appearance, Al Fursan from the UAE, flying the Aermacci MB-339 trainer (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - The pilots of the Patrouille Suisse were back at RIAT 2012, with a typically polished and precise routine in the team’s beautifully painted F-5E Tiger IIs (Glenn Beasley)

They were joined, as ever at RIAT, by a host of other display teams, including a debut for Al Fursan from the UAE, but it was a number of solo performers and visitors which really caught the eye, with the Tattoo benefitting from its close proximity to the Farnborough International Airshow.

Above - Arguable star of the 2012 UK airshow season, the Republic of Korea Air Force Black Eagles display team (Gareth Stringer)

Top-rightTop-right - Making their first UK appearance, Al Fursan from the UAE, flying the Aermacci MB-339 trainer (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - The pilots of the Patrouille Suisse were back at RIAT 2012, with a typically polished and precise routine in the team’s beautifully painted F-5E Tiger IIs (Glenn Beasley)

The Royal Jordanian Falcons have always been staunch supporters of RIAT following on from the late His Majesty King Hussein of Jordan’s patronage of the event (Gareth Stringer)

Karl Drage

The Super Hornet’s display was quite frankly spell-binding, while the MV-22 Osprey (left) was a most welcome addition to the flying programme, as was the Yak-130 Mitten (above). Of older Soviet vintage, but none the less impressive,impressive, was a MiG-29 (right) from the Polish Air Force – it was almost like the old days as Captains Adrian Rojek and Artur Kalko added smoke and thunder to the skies over the Cotswolds. Having said that, RIAT didn’t need much more in the wayway of inclement weather in the run up to the event – though the show weekend got away with it largely unscathed.

Shaun Schofield

The Super Hornet’s display was quite frankly spell-binding, while the MV-22 Osprey (left) was a most welcome addition to the flying programme, as was the Yak-130 Mitten (above). Of older Soviet vintage, but none the less impressive,impressive, was a MiG-29 (right) from the Polish Air Force – it was almost like the old days as Captains Adrian Rojek and Artur Kalko added smoke and thunder to the skies over the Cotswolds. Having said that, RIAT didn’t need much more in the wayway of inclement weather in the run up to the event – though the show weekend got away with it largely unscathed.

Glenn Beasley

Above - This Norwegian Air Force F-16AM’s tiger scheme might be a few years old now but it was still a very welcome addition to the static park (Karl Drage)

Above - Sadly the Super Etendard is becoming a relatively rare sight in the UK these days; such a good looking jet (Karl Drage)

Above - This tiger-schemed Luftwaffe Tornado IDS was one of the most vivid aircraft in RIAT 2012's extensive static park (Kevin Wills)

You could be forgiven that you’d taken another step back in time when RIAT secured a USAF B-2A Spirit for the static park too, and when the aircraft finally arrived on the Friday night, it joined a line-up of some 268 aircraft, including a Boeing KC-767J from the Japanese Air Self Defense Force (main), the 53rd nation to visit the event. event.

Main - John Higgins

Above - The Royal Air Force of Oman sent this pristine Gulfstream IV for the static display (Glenn Beasley)

Above - Luftwaffe Phantoms do not have much time left on the clock, making it all the more poignant to see this example gracing the tarmac (Kevin Wills)

Above - Adding garish colour in spades, this specially-schemed German Navy Sea King brightened everyone's day, even in the darkest, and wettest, of moments! (Kevin Wills)

Above - One of the stars of RIAT 2012 was this specially marked C-130H, not just because of its colours but also because it represented a new RIAT nation, Colombia, the 52nd (Karl Drage)

The Royal International Air Tattoo 2013 will be held 20 & 21 July

Above - The re-enactment of the 'E II R' formation of Hawk T1s and T2s for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee was one of the real highlights of the flying programme on the Sunday (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - Sporting a wonderful orca paint scheme, the Polish Navy Mi-14PL dominated an impressive line-up of helicopters on the ground (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - A contender for photo pass of the RIAT weekend was the arrival on the Sunday of the DHL 767-300, adding something different and unique to the Fairford flying programme (Glenn Beasley)

Our moment of the weekend? Sunday’s missing-man formation by the RAF’s Tornado GR4 Role Demo, a tribute to three colleagues who sadly lost their lives on the Monday prior to the event. Barely a dry eye in the house.

In summary – well done RIAT, and is it 2013 yet?!

Above - The re-enactment of the 'E II R' formation of Hawk T1s and T2s for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee was one of the real highlights of the flying programme on the Sunday (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - Sporting a wonderful orca paint scheme, the Polish Navy Mi-14PL dominated an impressive line-up of helicopters on the ground (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - A contender for photo pass of the RIAT weekend was the arrival on the Sunday of the DHL 767-300, adding something different and unique to the Fairford flying programme (Glenn Beasley)

Above - After starring at RIAT 2012, the Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet impressed again in the Farnborough flying display.

Top-rightTop-right - Another RIAT 2012 participant that went on to star at FIA 2012 was the Bell Boeing MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor, this example from VMM-264 'Black Knights' based at MCAS New River, North Carolina.

LeftLeft - An interesting display item was a trio of Augusta Westland helicopters, including the AW-189 pictured here in an attractive company livery.

All images Glenn Beasley.

Below - After impressing at both RAF Waddington and RAF Fairford as a formation display team, the Black Eagles demonstrated the T-50 Golden Eagle as a solo display in the 2012 Farnborough flying programme.

Above - After starring at RIAT 2012, the Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet impressed again in the Farnborough flying display.

Top-rightTop-right - Another RIAT 2012 participant that went on to star at FIA 2012 was the Bell Boeing MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor, this example from VMM-264 'Black Knights' based at MCAS New River, North Carolina.

LeftLeft - An interesting display item was a trio of Augusta Westland helicopters, including the AW-189 pictured here in an attractive company livery.

All images Glenn Beasley.

The F/A-18F Super Hornet and MV-22 Osprey were probably the highlights from the military sector, though a Black Eagles’ solo T-50 and USAF B-52 both made appearances, as did the Saab Gripen.

Above - The star for many of the flying programme on the civilian side was the appearance of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in full Qatar Airways colours (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - The mighty Vulcan kicks up plenty of spray during take off on the very damp Saturday show (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - The fully armed Yak-130 jet trainer from the Irkut Corporation brought the meancing symbol of the Soviet red star back to the skies above Farnborough (Glenn Beasley)

Airbus’ A380 was up against Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner for the first time during the trade days and the public days included a host of UK military and civilian display acts, including Vulcan XH558 which arrived in formation with the Red Arrows at the start of the week. AlwaysAlways very much a reflection of the economic and strategic world in which we live, the key thing to remember with Farnborough is that the next one, in 2014, is likely to be very different once again.

Above - The star for many of the flying programme on the civilian side was the appearance of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in full Qatar Airways colours (Glenn Beasley)

RightRight - The mighty Vulcan kicks up plenty of spray during take off on the very damp Saturday show (Shaun Schofield)

Top-leftTop-left - The fully armed Yak-130 jet trainer from the Irkut Corporation brought the meancing symbol of the Soviet red star back to the skies above Farnborough (Glenn Beasley)

The Shuttleworth Collection’s 2012 Season

Triumph over adversityIt's fair to say that the Shuttleworth Collection had a terrible few months to contend with during the first half of the 2012 airshow season, with multiple events cancelled due to dire weather and, in early July, the tragic loss of former Chief Pilot Trevor Roche.

The Shuttleworth Collection’s 2012 Season Trevor's loss was deeply felt by the entire Collection, and by those who had watched him displaying the Collection's aircraft in his own inimitable style. One cannot underestimate the blow that was dealt to the Collection that Sunday morning in July and ripples from Trevor's untimely death were felt at Old Warden for the remainder of the year.Warden for the remainder of the year.

However, having had the worst of circumstances to deal with from May to July, the Shuttleworth Collection pressed on with heavy heart and the latter half of the season saw its heartfelt resurrection as the men and women of the Collection continued to do what they do best. It was a grand, albeit understatedunderstated comeback, with the UK début of The Vintage Aviator Limited's RE.8 and Albatros DVA at the Shuttleworth Pageant in August illustrating the rise from the darkest of hours to the greatest of triumphs.

Shaun Schofield

Shaun Schofield

Triumph over adversityIt's fair to say that the Shuttleworth Collection had a terrible few months to contend with during the first half of the 2012 airshow season, with multiple events cancelled due to dire weather and, in early July, the tragic loss of former Chief Pilot Trevor Roche.

Trevor Roche: 30 March 1960 - 01 July 2012

Above - A unique formation of Albatros, RE.8, SE5a and Bristol F.2b - A perfect way to see the former pair off before they 'retire' to RAFM Hendon.

Top-rightTop-right - The gorgeous Albatros DVA was displayed by Stu Goldspink for the final time.

Right - Photographic opportunities at ‘Uncovered’ were many, with warm autumnal sunshine.

LeftLeft - Gene Di Marco takes the RE.8 aloft for the last time.

All images this spread Huw Hopkins

The remainder of the season's airshows at Old Warden included some of the finest in recent years; the RE.8 and Albatros were the undoubted highlights of the year (not only at Old Warden, but across the UK and European circuit) and their final outing before being retired to the RAF Museum Hendon came with a terrific formation display with the Collection's SE5a and Bristol F2b. Utterly sublime on every level.

Above - A unique formation of Albatros, RE.8, SE5a and Bristol F.2b - A perfect way to see the former pair off before they 'retire' to RAFM Hendon.

Top-rightTop-right - The gorgeous Albatros DVA was displayed by Stu Goldspink for the final time.

Right - Photographic opportunities at ‘Uncovered’ were many, with warm autumnal sunshine.

LeftLeft - Gene Di Marco takes the RE.8 aloft for the last time.


Above - John Dodd positioning the Classic Air Force Vampire T.55 perfectly for the photographers with a pass 'around the bend'.

Right - Peter Teichman displaying his immaculate Spitfire PR.XI in fine fashion.

LeftLeft - The Old Warden skies are familiar with the sound of the Piston Provost, but not so much its successor, the Jet Provost.

Top-leftTop-left - From the world's oldest flying aircraft to the Hunter all in one show for Shuttleworth's season finale!


Elsewhere, visitors enjoyed some excellent displays from Peter Teichman, none more so memorable than his scorching Spitfire PR.XI routine at the Military Pageant. Upping the vintage military ante at the Autumn Airshow was equally barn-burning participation from a number of classic jets, including a brilliant Vampire T.55 display and an ear-shattering appearance by the Hunter Flight Academy's Hawker Hunter T.7, with Chris Heames tearing up the airfield in the way that few have in recent years.

Above - John Dodd positioning the Classic Air Force Vampire T.55 perfectly for the photographers with a pass 'around the bend'.

Right - Peter Teichman displaying his immaculate Spitfire PR.XI in fine fashion.

LeftLeft - The Old Warden skies are familiar with the sound of the Piston Provost, but not so much its successor, the Jet Provost.

Top-leftTop-left - From the world's oldest flying aircraft to the Hunter all in one show for Shuttleworth's season finale!


The Catalina standing out against some very imposing clouds! (Huw Hopkins)

The Hunter squeezing some vapour out of the air! (Huw Hopkins)

Sqn Ldr Ian Smith charging in with the PR.XIX for a display of power and grace (Huw Hopkins)

One of the highlights of Old Warden's year was a memorable appearance by the RAF BBMF's Avro Lancaster (Elliott Marsh)

Sqn Ldr Ian Smith charging in with the PR.XIX for a display of power and grace (Huw Hopkins)

A sight not seen for many years, a pair of Ansons display together (Huw Hopkins)

A regular visiting performer during the year, Peter Teichman departs in his Mustang (Huw Hopkins)

The Gnat Display Team making an appearance at the Autumn Airshow (Huw Hopkins)

One of the highlights of Old Warden's year was a memorable appearance by the RAF BBMF's Avro Lancaster (Elliott Marsh)

Some reasonable weather during the latter half of the year has also allowed for some of the Collection's lesser seen 1920s’ and '30s’ aircraft to be flown, including the likes of the Comper Swift, Hawker Cygnet and DH-60 Moth. Calm winds even enabled the hop/skip/fast-taxi of the English Electric Wren, a sight not seen for quite some time! Elsewhere, the pairing of Lysander and Storch provided some unique photographic opportunities, while the growing glider contingent impressed with both resident and visiting gliders making regular appearances throughout the year.regular appearances throughout the year.

Above - A rare sight at British airshows, a pure blue sky! Peter Holloway providing yet another amazing Storch routine (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - The Eon Olympia glider gets airborne for its display, towed aloft by the Collection's Piper Super Cub (Tom Gibbons)

Left - The rather agricultural Po-2 showing its upper surfaces with a topside pass (Huw Hopkins)

Top-leftTop-left - The collection's Comper Swift always gives a spirited, energetic performance, indicative of its racing heritage (Shaun Schofield)

Above - A rare sight at British airshows, a pure blue sky! Peter Holloway providing yet another amazing Storch routine (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - The Eon Olympia glider gets airborne for its display, towed aloft by the Collection's Piper Super Cub (Tom Gibbons)

Left - The rather agricultural Po-2 showing its upper surfaces with a topside pass (Huw Hopkins)

Top-leftTop-left - The collection's Comper Swift always gives a spirited, energetic performance, indicative of its racing heritage (Shaun Schofield)

Right - The Bristol Boxkite flies past the moon - Only at Shuttleworth!

Below - The Blackburn Type D celebrated its 100th birthday marvellously at the Autumn Airshow, with a flight bathed in warm evening light.

LeftLeft - Always such a special sight, one of the Edwardians getting into the air.


The Edwardians also enjoyed a successful half-year, with the Bristol Boxkite, Avro Triplane, Blackburn Monoplane, Blériot and Deperdussin all enjoying the feeling of some long overdue air under their wheels.

Indeed, October's Autumn Airshow, the culmination of the Shuttleworth Collection's airshow season, drew to a close with one last dance from the 'Eds'.

If you're yet to visit Old Warden to savour these magnificent flying machines and their magnificent pilots, you really are missing out.

http://www.globalaviationresource.com/

http://www.thehangar.tv/

The 2012 Royal Air ForceTornado GR4 Role Demo

One of the clear highlights of the 2012 UK airshow circuit, the Royal Air Force’s Tornado GR4 Role Demo has now successfully completed a hugely impactful calendar of displays. Gareth Stringer sat down with the team to find out how it all came together and to discuss a season marked by triumph and tragedy. Images as credited.

The 2012 Royal Air ForceTornado GR4 Role Demo

Karl Drage

I’m sitting in the lounge area, conveniently close to the bar, of the Royal Clifton Hotel in Southport, North West England. Day one of the popular Southport Airshow concluded a few hours earlier and the curtain came down on the day’s flying with the RAF’s Tornado GR4 Role Demo; ten minutes of big noise, blistering 550kt attack runs, spectacular pyrotechnicspyrotechnics and, in the moist seaside atmosphere, plenty of spluff (GR4-speak for vapour).

Selection for the team began in January 2012 when XV(R) was tasked with providing the role demo once again, as it did in 2010 and 2011, and a notice was issued to see which crew members would like to be considered for selection.

“People“People were able to put their names forward,” says Rich Parsons, “and then a filtering process was applied on the squadron with the AOC (Air Officer Commanding) given final sign-off.”

SimmoSimmo - “I think you can see that we’ve got a good mix. There are two younger people, I suppose, and two very experienced people. That mixture is a good one and hopefully will provide some continuity for next year as well.”

As for Stradders, who has completed a season on the display circuit before, I wonder whether there was an element of simply wanting to go back and try it out again?

“I“I was actually asked by the Boss if I would like to get involved; I didn’t initially apply to do it. I thought it was a young man’s game and that someone else should have a go, but after some consideration I did volunteer, and I think that was the right decision on my part; I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.”

“So,“So, basically it’s a mixture of volunteers, people being requested and then everyone being at the right level of experience; that’s what gave us the perfect mix really.” Bev concludes.

Crown Copyright

So, they knew the role demo was on and they knew who would be doing it, but what happened next? It had been done before, so did they start with a clean sheet of paper?

Stradders takes up the story:

“We“We did look at what had been done before, but equally we did pretty much start with a clean slate and put a couple of requests in to our bosses and also the senior officers at 1 Group, just to check what we were allowed to do.

“The“The deal was to give as much profile to the jet as possible, while it’s doing what it does best – low-level, lots of noise, integrate the pyros and

then write a commentary to bring it all together.

“That“That all took a while! There were a number of iterations, things that didn’t work or things that didn’t look very good, for example, so we went off and practised it in the simulator. Only then did we go and fly it, and there were a number of changes, but I think the guys would agree that we were all pretty happy with the way the sequencesequence ended up. If you look at the feedback, I think that backs that up.”

The Tornado GR4 simulators at RAF Lossiemouth allowed the team to fly the demo as a pair, and, while this isn’t as perfect as taking it airborne for real, it proved to be a hugely beneficial phase for all four crew members, as Bev elaborates:

Keeping it low in true Tornado style and tucking away the gear to commence their display at the 2012 Royal International Air Tattoo (Glenn Beasley)

Poker 1 and 2 cross during their Royal International Air Tattoo 2012 performance (John Higgins)

Crown Copyright

Above - The role demo team and pyros in action at the RAF Leuchars Air Show 2012 (Kevin Wills)

Right - One of the best sights to appear regularly through the viewfinder during the 2012 airshow season - Poker 1 and 2 at full chat (John Higgins)

Still Doing the JobWhich brings us nicely on to the GR4 itself. Despite having more than 30 years service life under its belt with the Royal Air Force, the aircraft remains an extremely capable and exceedingly potent weapons system……..

“She’s“She’s still doing a great job. Combat capable, and combat proven, GR4 is still at the heart of our strike capability. She’s on ops now and will be for some time,” Rich tells me.

SimmoSimmo - “The jet might be long serving, but what’s inside is decidedly new. There’s some very modern software and extremely advanced weaponry available to us.”

Stradders – “The quote from a previous AOC 1 Group is still relevant. The Tornado GR4 is the Royal Air Force’s weapons delivery platform of choice for the foreseeable future and certainly for as long as it takes the Typhoon to become fully operational and take over the role from the Tornado.

II think the last word in this piece particular section goes to Bev, who sums GR4 up as follows:

“Day“Day or night, any weather, any time you need to, strike capability is delivered by the GR4. Proven in Libya last year, in Afghanistan for ten years and for 17 years in Iraq before that, it is the backbone…………..”

There’s no arguing with that, but, before I could even consider doing so, Bev is interrupted in full-flow, not by the music from the wedding party, or indeed another airshow participant – but by a young lad, mum in tow, who really wants to meet the GR4 Role Demo team!

II leave the interview recording at this point, as the lads all pile over to meet the young lad, hand out leaflets, key rings and badges and have a group picture taken.

FutureFuture pilot? Who knows, but that really is what this is all about. That’s why these people give up their weekends to do this year in and year out. The flying is one part, of course it is, but you quite simply cannot beat that kind of interaction with

the general public, especially youngsters. It really was a wonderful illustrative moment of what a powerful tool display teams are for our armed forces, not just the Royal Air Force.

Tragic LossesItIt will have escaped nobody’s attention that roughly mid-way through the airshow season, tragedy struck XV(R) Squadron and the broader Royal Air Force family. The GR4 accident that claimed three lives and left one other hospitalised made national news and took place on the Tuesday immediately prior to the Royal International Air Tattoo.Royal International Air Tattoo.

Karl Drage

There was perhaps, in some quarters at least, surprise that the role demo went ahead at RAF Fairford that weekend, but, with Southport’s displays dedicated to the memory of Flt Lt Adam Sanders, who had put his name down to take the spare jet to Liverpool and attend his ‘home’‘home’ airshow on this very weekend, I don't think any of us felt it was a subject that could, or should, be ignored.

Stradders – “The team got together after the accident and discussed it and decided that it was the right thing to do. It wasn’t an easy decision, and if it had been a small airshow, then maybe the decision would have been different.

“In“In retrospect, it was absolutely the right decision, and what better way to pay tribute to our friends and colleagues than to put on two really good shows over that weekend? Not everyone will agree with that, some people will think we should have taken the weekend off, but,but, as a team, we are all comfortable with the choice we made and we firmly believe that we made the right decision.”

“For me, they were our friends, and I think they would have wanted us to carry on.” Simmo agrees, “If it had been me then I would have wanted the team to carry on as well.”

NoNo one would have blamed the team for not attending RIAT, of that there is no doubt. When they flew the missing man formation to close Sunday’s show at RAF Fairford there was barely a dry eye in the house and who are we to disagree with the guys when they say that they wantedwanted to pay tribute to their fallen colleagues? For me, it was one of the most emotional moments I’ve witnessed at an airshow, and fair play to them for going ahead.

Above - The Tornado Role Demo always provides a veritable feast for the senses (Chris Wood)

Top-right - Wings back, reheat lit, a cloud forms on the top surfaces of this Tornado as the G comes on (Karl Drage)

Right - Looking right into the cockpit of ‘Poker 2’, with Sqn Ldr Bev Thorpe and Flt Lt Rich Parsons hard at work (Karl Drage)

Something Rather SpecialFinally,Finally, and interestingly, even with PDA achieved, the season looming, and then a string of successful shows completed, you might be surprised to learn that the team didn’t really have a sense that they had hit upon something a little special this year. I’ll level with you, even at Southport I’m not at all sure that they realise just how much of a highlight they’ve been…..

“Not“Not really!” says Simmo. “We devised a sequence that worked for us and the feedback has been a real surprise to be honest!”

Rich - “It’s been great for us as we haven’t always been able to spend as much time on the ground as we’d have liked to, so to come back to a venue, like we have today, and get that feedback, is really encouraging.”

II find this a little perplexing! The Tornado GR4 role demo has been one of THE special moments this season, something that everyone has looked forward to, whether it is seeing them for the first time or again and again.

Poker 1 proves that it’s not all about wings back, flat-out aggression (Karl Drage)

Riduclous amounts of ‘spluff’ were generated by the Tornados on the Saturday of Southport Air Show (Gareth Stringer)

One More Time?Hands-up who wants to do it again next year?

Interesting. It probably wouldn’t be fair to reveal the result of that question, but maybe we’ll get to see some of the 2012 role demo team back in 2013…….

GarethGareth Stringer would like to thank all the Tornado GR4 Role Demo team. You can still stay in touch with the team via Twitter and Facebook and also its official RAF website.

Above - Poker 1 passes over a pyro-induced cloud at RIAT 2012 (Chris Wood)

Below - The ‘1,000,000 Flying Hours’ special heats up the skies at Duxford’s September Air Show (Kevin Wills)

Will Greenwood looks pretty relaxed ahead of his airshow debut in the Bestmann at Abingdon (Gareth Stringer)

Sadly, 5 October saw the passing of the Shoreham Airshow co-founder and commentator, Peter Eager, aged 73. Seen here interviewing Carolyn Grace at Shoreham in 2007 (Kevin Jackson)

Aerosuperbatics’ Wingwalker Sarah Tanner gives a wave to the crowd as she taxies out in a very patriotic outfit (Gareth Stringer)

As anybody caught up in it will tell you, the UK airshow circuit is like one big travelling circus. Sure, there are lots of different organising committees but you’ll see many of the same faces wherever you go and whatever the event. This is our homage to some of them, without whom there would simply be no show.

Airshow People

Neil McCarthy has been a staple on the UK airshow circuit since 2009, initially with just the Newcastle Jet Provost but in 2012 he also qualified on the Hunter (Karl Drage)

The Dawlish Air Show Flying Control Committee, led by Display Director Kevin Wills (high-vis vest) (Jack Wills)

Sqn Ldr Mike Ling, Red 10, and team commentator for the 2012 Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows (Gareth Stringer)

Sadly, 5 October saw the passing of the Shoreham Airshow co-founder and commentator, Peter Eager, aged 73. Seen here interviewing Carolyn Grace at Shoreham in 2007 (Kevin Jackson)

Paul Bonhomme, airline pilot, Red Bull air racer, warbird pilot par excellence, seen here taxying out in Spitfire MH434 (Kevin Wills)

As anybody caught up in it will tell you, the UK airshow circuit is like one big travelling circus. Sure, there are lots of different organising committees but you’ll see many of the same faces wherever you go and whatever the event. This is our homage to some of them, without whom there would simply be no show.

Airshow People

Extracting oneself from the 'cockpit' of the Bristol Boxkite is no mean feat, as Keith Dennison (here hitching a lift from Paul Stone) demonstrates at Old Warden! (Elliott Marsh)

The Dawlish Air Show Flying Control Committee, led by Display Director Kevin Wills (high-vis vest) (Jack Wills)

Main - The first gathering of the British Air Display Association took place in March 2011 at RAF Fairford (Karl Drage)

Top, from left - SSgt Andy Crisp & Captain Phil Goodier, two of the three team members from the 2012 Army Air Corps Lynx solo display (Karl Drage); The 2012 Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows (Gareth Stringer); Hangar 11’s Peter Teichman salutes the crowd from the cockpit of his magnificent P-40M Kittyhawk (Gareth Stringer)

RightRight - From the left: Ian Gallacher, Paul Moslin, Guy Westgate and Pete Wells; all UK airshow regulars with acts such as gliderFX, The SWIP Team and others (Karl Drage)

Left - Flt Lt Roger Nicholls, one of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Bomber Pilots looks out of his quite incredible office window (Karl Drage)

Alan Longstaff, long-time volunteer at Coventry, guides Jon Beattie in to parking in the Venom at Cotswold Airport (Karl Drage)

The RAF Benevolent Fund girls are joined by RAF and AAC crews for a spot of Zumba on the lawn at Dawlish Air Show (Kevin Wills)

Commentator at work! Flt Lt Doug Smith, Tornado GR4 Role Demo Team Manager (Gareth Stringer)

The 2012 Army Air Corps Apache Display Team; Captain Stewart Pearce (left), Captain Lillie Mead (second left) and WO2 Clive Richardson (right) (Gareth Stringer)

Dan Griffith, test pilot extraordinaire, probably displayed more types at UK airshows in 2012 than anybody else (Karl Drage)

Multiple record holder, display pilot, airshow commentator; who else could it be but the legend that is Brendan O’Brien (Karl Drage)

The RAF Benevolent Fund girls are joined by RAF and AAC crews for a spot of Zumba on the lawn at Dawlish Air Show (Kevin Wills)

The An-2 Club’s Bill Leary takes five minutes out prior to getting airborne from Popham (Thomas Pitts)

The 2012 Army Air Corps Apache Display Team; Captain Stewart Pearce (left), Captain Lillie Mead (second left) and WO2 Clive Richardson (right) (Gareth Stringer)

One of the longest serving acts on the display circuit, the Tiger Club’s Turbulent Team (Karl Drage)

“My take on 2012 encompasses the weather, and the tenacity of the British public to endure it for the spectacle that aviation provides, The Black Eagles, for the most consummate display of aviation professionalism, diplomacy and humility and, finally, Aerobility - for its audacious Paralympic opening display which transcended regulation and bureaucracy beyond our dreams."George Bacon, Army Air Corps and airshow commentator

Chris Wood

Courtesy ofGeorge Bacon

Airbourne 2012

Dunsfold ‘Wings & Wheels’

“Airbourne 2012 started poorly for us as we were blighted by the most frustrating of challenges for a Display Director – low cloud. The weather in the rest of the country was excellent but unfortunately no flying took place at Eastbourne on the Thursday. The rest of the weekend was a bumper Airbourne show with a highlight no doubt being the first appearance of the Vulcan, but backed up with some exceptional flying from the military and the civilian participants. There is something special about a Spitfire and Me-109 tangling together above Beachy Head in the sunshine - that takes some beating though!”Head in the sunshine - that takes some beating though!”Dave Walton, TSA Consulting - on behalf of Eastbourne Airbourne

“The most exciting, explosive Wings & Wheels to date enthralled and delighted over 30,000 visitors on Sunday 26th and Monday 27th August. A fantastic combination of new and old aircraft thrilled crowds as the Red Arrows, Vulcan and Battle of Britain Memorial flight took part in the five hour airshows along with unique formation displays from the Meteor T7 and Hawker Hunter, Spitfire and Mustang, Fokker and Apache. On the ground, John Surtees OBE and former World Champion on two and four wheels showed his metal in his own Surtees TS14 in the Motoring Demonstrations.

“Each“Each year the team work tirelessly to improve and introduce new elements to Wings & Wheels and we are thrilled with the success of this year's Show. Securing its calendar slot on the August bank holiday weekend the more noticeable change to the 2013 show will be its move from Sunday and Monday to the *NEW* format of Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th August.”

What they had to say...

“My take on 2012 encompasses the weather, and the tenacity of the British public to endure it for the spectacle that aviation provides, The Black Eagles, for the most consummate display of aviation professionalism, diplomacy and humility and, finally, Aerobility - for its audacious Paralympic opening display which transcended regulation and bureaucracy beyond our dreams."George Bacon, Army Air Corps and airshow commentator

Courtesy ofGeorge Bacon

Elliott Marsh

Karl Drage

Dunsfold ‘Wings & Wheels’

“The most exciting, explosive Wings & Wheels to date enthralled and delighted over 30,000 visitors on Sunday 26th and Monday 27th August. A fantastic combination of new and old aircraft thrilled crowds as the Red Arrows, Vulcan and Battle of Britain Memorial flight took part in the five hour airshows along with unique formation displays from the Meteor T7 and Hawker Hunter, Spitfire and Mustang, Fokker and Apache. On the ground, John Surtees OBE and former World Champion on two and four wheels showed his metal in his own Surtees TS14 in the Motoring Demonstrations.

“Each“Each year the team work tirelessly to improve and introduce new elements to Wings & Wheels and we are thrilled with the success of this year's Show. Securing its calendar slot on the August bank holiday weekend the more noticeable change to the 2013 show will be its move from Sunday and Monday to the *NEW* format of Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th August.”

The Great War Display TeamWhat they had to say...

Karl Drage

"After a poor start and eight cancelled displays because of the weather, the Great War Display Team had a successful season. Two strenuous journeys, one of five hours each way by the two Triplanes to La Ferte Alais and the other of six hours each way by the two Junkers and two SE5s to East Fortune. We also flew in a number of firsts, the Sopwith Triplane with an AAC Apache at Dunsfold and the Fokker Triplane with an Albatross D3 and an RE8 at Duxford. The Teams highlightshighlights were Cosford, Sywell and Shoreham where the whole Team flew together. It's a shame that British organisers don't show the same enthusiasm for Great War aeroplanes as do their French counterparts."

Flt Lt Jon Bond - 2012 RAF Tucano Display Pilot

“The Tucano display team for 2012 has thoroughly enjoyed the 2012 airshow season. With nearly 70 displays, nothing gave us more pleasure than displaying for and meeting the British public both at home and overseas, representing the RAF. Myself and the rest of the team would like to thank everyone for welcoming us so warmly onto the display circuit and to the public who gave so generously during the seasonseason which has enabled us to raise over £11,000 for our chosen charities.”

Gareth Stringer

What they had to say...

Karl Drage

“2012 was a fantastic year for the Royal International Air Tattoo and its 'Diamond Jubilee' airshow. Three new nations - Japan, the Republic of Korea and Colombia - plus a new display team, Al Fursan, were among a wealth of aviation riches unanimously welcomed by all our supporters. We cannot over-emphasize the incredible contribution we receive annually from our great friends in the US military who, together with the RAF, enable us to stage the world's largest military airshow.”Tim Prince OBE, DirectorTim Prince OBE, Director

Karl Drage

Shaun Schofield

“The Tucano display team for 2012 has thoroughly enjoyed the 2012 airshow season. With nearly 70 displays, nothing gave us more pleasure than displaying for and meeting the British public both at home and overseas, representing the RAF. Myself and the rest of the team would like to thank everyone for welcoming us so warmly onto the display circuit and to the public who gave so generously during the seasonseason which has enabled us to raise over £11,000 for our chosen charities.”

The C-47 Skytrain is a legendary transport aircraft seen all too rarely at modern airshows.

Above - Rotary power courtesy of the RAF Chinook role demonstration, a display not seen too often in 2012; top-centre - Patrouille Reva, an unusual sight at any British airshow; top-right - The RAF King Air runs in for its display.

Historic aviation was also represented on this occasion by a mock-dogfight between the Spitfire MkI and HA-1112 Búchon, a rare appearance by the Dunsfold-based C-47 Skytrain and the Breitling Wingwalkers, amongst others. Once again, the combination of sun, sea, sand and aviation proved to be a heady cocktail.

The RAF Sea King illustrates its day-to-day role in this search and rescue demonstration.

Two of Sywell’s residents do battle above the airfield - Matthew Boddington’s BE2C ‘Biggles Biplane’ replica and Jasta Binks Aviation’s Fokker DR1 replica.

A traditional highlight of Sywell Airshows, Martin Lovell’s Hughes 500 routine is an act that really should feature on more display programmes.

It’s just a pity that we have to wait two years until the next event…

Main - The silhouetted outline of the Historic Aircraft Collection’s Hawker Nimrod with Dave Harvey at the controls.

All images this spread Karl Drage

Warbirds punctuated the day with Spitfires from Carolyn Grace and Peter Teichman, Maurice Hammond’s P-51 Mustang pair, Aces High’s C-47 Dakota, B-17 ‘Sally B’ and the RAF BBMF Lancaster all impressing.

Among a fine selection of vintage machinery were a mock 1930s’ air race and the traditional First World War dogfight, which featured Matthew Boddington’s BE2C for the first time. This sweeping aerial drama has become the centre piece of the Sywell show.

The Hardwick Warbirds’ P-51D Mustangs ‘Marinell’ and ‘Janie’ with Maurice Hammond and Dave Evans at the controls.

The Extra 300s of the superb Blades also call Sywell home.

Alex Smee guides Gordon Brander’s Jungmeister, G-BUTX, in to land after displaying.

The lie of the land at Sywell accentuates this shot of Peter Teichman hedge-hopping in his Spitfire PRXI.

This curious looking chap is an Aeronca 100, one of 24 built fairly close to Sywell in Peterborough. The aircraft is operated by the Real Aeroplane Company based at Breighton.

Main - The silhouetted outline of the Historic Aircraft Collection’s Hawker Nimrod with Dave Harvey at the controls.

All images this spread Karl Drage

Little Gransden Air & Car Show

2 Now in its 20th year, the Little Gransden Air and Car Show offered a little something for everyone, from First World War biplanes to vintage jets.

No other UK show had the Lancaster, B-17 Flying Fortress and Avro Vulcan in the same line-up; a proud moment for organiser Dave Poile and the team to assemble a trio of four-engine bombers.

Resident aerobatic genius Mark Jefferies wowed the crowd with a suitably phenomenal showing in his Extra 330SC and was joined by an Extra 300, the SWIP Team and TRIG Team in the aerobatic stakes.

It’s all for charity, folks!

26 August

Little Gransden Air & Car Show

Left - Peter Teichman performs a low pass in his Curtiss P-40 Kittyhawk, one of a handful of warbirds on display including two P-51D Mustangs, a T-28 Fennec and a Yak-11 (Chris Wood)

Above - Formerly owned by the late Tracey Martin, this Bell 47 was displayed in her honour (Elliott Marsh)

Below - A beautiful close pass by B-17 Flying Fortress ‘Sally B’, one of Little Gransden’s standout displays (Elliott Marsh)

Now in its 20th year, the Little Gransden Air and Car Show offered a little something for everyone, from First World War biplanes to vintage jets.

Resident aerobatic genius Mark Jefferies wowed the crowd with a suitably phenomenal showing in his Extra 330SC and was joined by an Extra 300, the SWIP Team and TRIG Team in the aerobatic stakes.

Above - The Avro Vulcan’s appearance may have been brief, consisting of two passes, but it was not short of drama and impact!

Right - An unusual angle on the SWIP Team as they prepare for another on-crowd break.

Bottom-leftBottom-left - Rob Davies brings his Yak-11 in to land following the show’s finale.

Top-left - The wonderful art deco Spartan Executive; quite the gentleman’s aero-carriage!

All images this spread Elliott Marsh

An ultra-rare formation was Nigel Pickard’s Spartan Executive duo and Stearman formating with the rarely-seen PT-17 from Golden Apple Operations.

It was also nice to see the ex-Tracey Martin Bell 47 displaying in tribute to her; Tracey sadly passed away from illness late last year.

Closing the show was an unusual pairing of Rob Davies’ Yak-11 with Nigel Willson’s Yak-52, flying in formation and then individually.

Above - The Avro Vulcan’s appearance may have been brief, consisting of two passes, but it was not short of drama and impact!

Right - An unusual angle on the SWIP Team as they prepare for another on-crowd break.

Bottom-leftBottom-left - Rob Davies brings his Yak-11 in to land following the show’s finale.

Top-left - The wonderful art deco Spartan Executive; quite the gentleman’s aero-carriage!

All images this spread Elliott Marsh

After a weather-affected few years, it was nice to see a larger crowd in evidence. Hopefully a large sum of money will have been raised for Children In Need and we’ll see the return of this pleasant event next year.

Wings, wheels & lovely things...

The Dunsfold Wings & Wheels event is certainly more than “just” an airshow, with a plethora of ground attractions - many of which are built around the many classic cars and military vehicles making up the ‘Wheels’ element of the show’s title - to entertain the public on the ground.

Sunday’s show also saw an appearance by the ever-popular Red Arrows, which helped to ensure that day one of the airshow saw large crowds descending on Dunsfold.

In the air, there was much to enjoy, including a

sublime display by Avro Vulcan XH558, a beautifully flown duo display by the Old Flying Machine Company’s Spitfire MkIX and P-51D Mustang, and solo warbird aerobatics from Peter Teichman in his P-40M Kittyhawk.

WINGS & WHEELSDUNSFOLD

25 & 26 August

Clockwise from above:

Chris Gotke in the Sea Fury T20; always a terrific display.

The RAF Tornado GR4 brought noise and power in spades.

AlisterAlister Kay keeps a tight formation with Brian Smith in the OFMC pair.

The timeless shape of the Avro Vulcan climbs skyward.

Peter Teichman showing off his P-40 ‘Clawin’ Kitty’ with a nice topside pass.

WINGS & WHEELS

All images Elliott Marsh

Above - Celebrating the CFS 100th anniversary were two Jet Provosts, this example owned and flown by Neil McCarthy.

Top-right - The Redhawks line up for departure under a grey sky on Saturday afternoon.

RightRight - The Bulldog, forebear of the Tutor, on its landing run following its spirited display.

Left - Evoking memories of the Diamond Nine Tiger Moth team were these nine Tiger Moths, a most welcome sight.

Above - Celebrating the CFS 100th anniversary were two Jet Provosts, this example owned and flown by Neil McCarthy.

Top-right - The Redhawks line up for departure under a grey sky on Saturday afternoon.

RightRight - The Bulldog, forebear of the Tutor, on its landing run following its spirited display.

Left - Evoking memories of the Diamond Nine Tiger Moth team were these nine Tiger Moths, a most welcome sight.

The key theme this year was the Central Flying School's 100th anniversary and to mark the occasion, a fine selection of RAF training types was assembled, ranging from a pair of Olympia gliders, by way of Tiger Moths, Chipmunks, Bulldog, Jet Provosts and the modern day training compliment of Tucano, Hawk and King Air. This was likely the most comprehensive celebration of CFS100 and the organisers can certainly be commended for illustrating the theme to such a degree.

OneOne only hopes 2013 presents the organisers with kinder weather to play with!

The Duxford September Air Show was perhaps one of the strongest of recent years, with a tremendously varied flying programme with numerous individual highlights, including one of only three UK public appearances by The Vintage Aviation Limited's RE.8 and Albatros DVA (joined on this occasion by Fokker DR1 and Nieuport 17 replicas).

Duxford September Air Show

There was much to enjoy with this show; powerful warbird solos from the TF-51D Mustang, P-47G Thunderbolt, Grumman F8-F Bearcat and P-40B Warhawk, a UK classic jet début in the form of Warbirds of Norway's CT-133 Silver Star (joined on Sunday by two Norwegian de Havilland Vampires and a pair of F-16 Fighting Falcons),Falcons), a welcome return to Duxford for the Avro Vulcan and, to top it off, the awesome power of the RAF Tornado GR.4 role demonstration.

The Duxford September Air Show was perhaps one of the strongest of recent years, with a tremendously varied flying programme with numerous individual highlights, including one of only three UK public appearances by The Vintage Aviation Limited's RE.8 and Albatros DVA (joined on this occasion by Fokker DR1 and Nieuport 17 replicas).

Above - The CT-133 departs back to North Weald after a technical fault (Huw Hopkins)

Above - There are few finer pairings of man and machine than Stephen Grey in his beloved Bearcat (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Pete Kynsey showed off ‘Snafu’, the P-47G Thunderbolt, to great effect (Karl Drage)

Huw Hopkins

Duxford September Air Show 8/9 September

Above - An Albatross DVA and Nieuport 17 - surely a sight not seen since the First World War (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - The An-2 Club’s ‘Colt’ flew as part of a three-ship with the RNHF’s Swordfish and a Dragon Rapide (Karl Drage)

Left - The incredibly tight Buchon duo flown by Cliff Spink and Paul Bonhomme (Huw Hopkins)

Top-leftTop-left - Drag-'Em-Oot put on a very spirited display for a transport type (Huw Hopkins)

The crown jewel in the September Air Show's crown came with the beautifully choreographed and executed finale, which was two HA-1112 Búchons, four Spitfires and a single Hawker Hurricane performing with the type of élan that Duxford often does so well. John Romain's show-closing solo in the exquisite Mk1 Spitfire was one for the ages.

Above - An Albatross DVA and Nieuport 17 - surely a sight not seen since the First World War (Huw Hopkins)

RightRight - The An-2 Club’s ‘Colt’ flew as part of a three-ship with the RNHF’s Swordfish and a Dragon Rapide (Karl Drage)

Left - The incredibly tight Buchon duo flown by Cliff Spink and Paul Bonhomme (Huw Hopkins)

Top-leftTop-left - Drag-'Em-Oot put on a very spirited display for a transport type (Huw Hopkins)

Sun and fun at the seasideAs the North West's biggest airshow, Southport deserves inclusion for providing a varied flying programme which took place in some lovely late-summer sun.

Southport Air Show

With pretty much a full-set of Royal Air Force solos and teams, the Army's Lynx and Royal Navy Black Cats, the Southport faithful were treated to a wide array of military hardware, backed up by host of top notch civilian performers.

Above - Red 10, Squadron Leader Mike Ling, departs Southport seafront in a Twin Squirrel (Gareth Stringer)

Above - More vapour, this time courtesy of the RAF Typhoon demonstration (Gareth Stringer)

Above - The TRIG Aerobatic Team was one of the acts capable of operating from the temporary sand airstrip set up on Southport beach (John Rooney)

Sun and fun at the seasideAs the North West's biggest airshow, Southport deserves inclusion for providing a varied flying programme which took place in some lovely late-summer sun.

John Rooney

8 & 9 September

G O O D W O O D REVIVALIt’s a bit of a lie to class the Goodwood Revival as an airshow, for this event is so much more - it’s an ode to days gone by, a celebration of motor vehicles, motor racers and vintage aviation, all played out over the hallowed Goodwood Racecourse.

HeadingHeading up a strong aerial contingent was Saturday’s Battle of Britain Day tribute, with four Spitfires and two Hurricanes flying eight formation passes over the aerodrome.

TheThe Old Flying Machine Company’s Spitfire MkIX and P-51D Mustang also flew in formation, with graceful loops and banking passes aplenty.

Clockwise, from the top: OFMC’s Spitfire and Mustang mid-way through a loop in close formation; Steve Jones in Spitfire MH434 leads Stuart Goldspink in the Vacher Hurricane MkI and Dave Harvey in the Historic Aircraft Collection’s Hurricane MkXII; Visiting from Germany, this Klemm-25 has specially timed LEDsLEDs built into its propeller to display the BMW logo; Another international visitor, this time a DC-3 Dakota from Sweden, accompanied here by three of the many vintage-dressed ladies who can be found wandering around the Revival site.

Main: Saturday’s big Battle of Britain Day tribute, set against a stunning sky. The RAF fighters evoked many memories of ‘The Few’ throughout the weekend.

All photographs by Huw Hopkins.

Take a step back in time...

Take a step back in time...

Left - Messrs Bonhomme and Kay drawing the Revival to a close on Saturday evening with a stunning close-formation routine in two Mustangs.

Bottom left - Chris Heames brings the Hunter in for another fast pass on Saturday afternoon.

RightRight - Pete Kynsey in P-47G Thunderbolt ‘Snafu’ leads Alister Kay in P-51D Mustang ‘Ferocious Frankie’.

BottomBottom - The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight has always been a staunch supporter of the Revival, this year bringing the Avro Lancaster and three Spitfires (Mks II, V and IX).

Bringing American airpower to the table was a storming set-piece involving The Fighter Collection’s Curtiss P-47G Thunderbolt and two Mustangs from TFC and the Old Flying Machine Company, with a combination of solo, duo and trio displays. Paul Bonhomme and Alister Kay returned in the two Mustangs to fly a gorgeous twilight formation routine on Saturday evening, enjoying the cool, calm air and the open expanses of clear blue sky.

AddingAdding some rarely seen jet noise to the Revival was a pair of Hawker Hunter T.7s, which brough the aerodrome to a standstill with their high speed, low level passes, blue notes and vapour-bursting aerobatics.

On the ground, there were many aircraft assembled in the Freddie March Spirit of Aviation paddock, including a Swedish DC-3 Dakota, Catalina, Yak-11, Skyraider and Spitfire T.IX.

Left - Messrs Bonhomme and Kay drawing the Revival to a close on Saturday evening with a stunning close-formation routine in two Mustangs.

Bottom left - Chris Heames brings the Hunter in for another fast pass on Saturday afternoon.

RightRight - Pete Kynsey in P-47G Thunderbolt ‘Snafu’ leads Alister Kay in P-51D Mustang ‘Ferocious Frankie’.

BottomBottom - The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight has always been a staunch supporter of the Revival, this year bringing the Avro Lancaster and three Spitfires (Mks II, V and IX).

Above - The 3 Sqn Typhoon, pride of the static display, bore a photogenic special scheme (Tom Gibbons)

Above - The first public outing for the Royal Navy’s new King Airs, which will be known as Avenger (Tom Gibbons)

Above - Modern RAF assets were well represented, illustrated here by a 41(R) Sqn Tornado GR4 carrying special Olympic markings (Tom Gibbons)

Above - The very smart Netherlands Coastguard Dornier Do-228 made its sole UK visit to the RAF Leuchars Air Show (Tom Gibbons)

Above - A relatively unusual sight on static was this Army Air Corps Islander from Aldergrove (Tom Gibbons)

Above - A newcomer to the European scene, Warbirds of Norway's beautiful CT-133 Silver Star is one classic jet we hope to see much more of in years to come (Tom Gibbons)

Above - The modern day Royal Norwegian Air Force was represented by the F-16 Fighting Falcon display ship (Tom Gibbons)

As for the static, a debut for the RN Avenger (King Air) was notable and attractive line-up of RAF squadrons from 1 through to 6 was nicely done. II(AC) and 3(F) provided their anniversary specials and other gems were a pair of Italian EF2000s from 36 Stormo, a pair of Rafale B's and a pair of Norwegian F-16s . A USAF contingent consistedconsisted of an ANG KC-135R, AFRC B-52H and a McGuire-based KC-10A.

Above - A diamond-nine of Typhoons brought the RAF Leuchars Airshow 2012 to a dramatic close.

Right - Boeing B-52H Stratofortress 'Judgement Day' absolutely dominated the ground displays at RAF Leuchars.

LeftLeft - The Spitfire F21 is a very rarely seen machine and one which is confined to the static display, acting as 1(F) Sqn’s hangar guardian.

Top-left - A 1(F) Sqn Typhoon basks in the September sun on the ramp of Leuchars.

All images All images Tom Gibbons

The stand up of 1(F)Sqn took place during the show and flypasts connected with this event included a four ship of Typhoons, BBMF Spitfire and Hurricane and the Red Arrows, while a nine ship of Typhoons closed the show in diamond formation.

Above - A diamond-nine of Typhoons brought the RAF Leuchars Airshow 2012 to a dramatic close.

Right - Boeing B-52H Stratofortress 'Judgement Day' absolutely dominated the ground displays at RAF Leuchars.

LeftLeft - The Spitfire F21 is a very rarely seen machine and one which is confined to the static display, acting as 1(F) Sqn’s hangar guardian.

Top-left - A 1(F) Sqn Typhoon basks in the September sun on the ramp of Leuchars.

All images All images Tom Gibbons

Above - Kennet's Skyraider performed a gentle display after a season plagued with technical issues (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Pete Kynsey's enjoyment of the Cosmic Wind is evident every time he displays the punchy little aircraft (Shaun Schofield)

October's Autumn Air Show completed Duxford's very successful year on a more subdued note, although that isn't to say that the show was without its positives. Indeed, the P-40B and P-40F tailchase was a particular highlight, as was the Tucano and Hawk formation, marking each aircraft's final 2012 public display appearance.

Duxford Autumn Air Show14 October

Above - The Sea King approaching to pick up the victim during the SAR demo (Huw Hopkins)

Above - Celebrating the Mustang's 70th birthday, Miss Velma and Ferocious Frankie fly together (Huw Hopkins)

Above - Flt Lt Jon Bond dips his wing as he bids farewell to his role of RAF Tucano display pilot (Shaun Schofield)

Above - Flt Lt Phil Bird gave it the beans in what was the final display from an RAF Hawk T1 (Shaun Schofield)

Elliott Marsh

October's Autumn Air Show completed Duxford's very successful year on a more subdued note, although that isn't to say that the show was without its positives. Indeed, the P-40B and P-40F tailchase was a particular highlight, as was the Tucano and Hawk formation, marking each aircraft's final 2012 public display appearance.

Duxford Autumn Air Show

Above - The defining moment of the Autumn Air Show and a stunning way to end the season: Mustang and Hunter in formation (Elliott Marsh)

RightRight - A first and final opportunity to see the special-schemed Tucano and Hawk together in formation (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - The Fighter Collection's Spitfire Mk.XIV taxies in as the autumnal light fleets across the Duxford grass (Huw Hopkins)

Top-left - Old adversaries head off into the clouds to dogfight (Huw Hopkins)

Undoubted highlight for many simply had to be the stunning P-51D Mustang and Hawker Hunter F58 'Miss Demeanour' formation sequence, with Alister Kay and Jonathon Whaley flying one of the finest displays of the season.

Duxford enjoyed a safe and strong 2012 season; let's hope 2013 offers more of the same.

Above - The defining moment of the Autumn Air Show and a stunning way to end the season: Mustang and Hunter in formation (Elliott Marsh)

RightRight - A first and final opportunity to see the special-schemed Tucano and Hawk together in formation (Shaun Schofield)

LeftLeft - The Fighter Collection's Spitfire Mk.XIV taxies in as the autumnal light fleets across the Duxford grass (Huw Hopkins)

Top-left - Old adversaries head off into the clouds to dogfight (Huw Hopkins)

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