In the Loop

Wow those are absolutely stunning.

Hi Mike,

Just to give an impression of the Hercs when they come through here’s a few shots taken over the years!

I managed a distant view of Hercules last week in the Llanberis pass. Flying something that size in that terrain – scary or what?

Thanks for the info Rob and Teej. I’m realistic on what will be there on the day, and also weather in wales etc.
Beauty with this forum is how useful it is and how helpful members are…
Cheers again.

Pegasus
Been a few times, twice on Cad West seen nothing all day however if your are lucky you get good and very good days. Few years ago we (wife and me) left home at dinner, drove two hours, climed cad to be told by those in the know at the top that it was going to be a good day. After a short wait we was treated to the last tornado F3 through the loop followed by 8 F15’s, 4 would be up high doing CAP, 2 decending while another 2 would be down in the weeds below. A guy with a radio had them on chanel and was picking up the crews chating and asking where so and so was on cad followed by an American accent saying got them, ie us and giving stunning passes. This went on for about 30 min. I believe this day was exceptional, the regulars that go can tell you as i only go max twice a year so it really is pot luck. If you go to Fox2 web site there is plenty more info and shots

I like the F-15E images, Tim. Always nice to have a bit of rock in the background!

Pegasus wrote

How accessible is it. How long walking from where you leave the car, any costs involved and do you need to book.

See following links for details of Mach Loop locations.

http://www.mjaviation.co.uk/MachLoop.htm

http://www.mjaviation.co.uk/index.htm

Many thanks for the info Tim. I’m sure I only asked what a lot of people were thinking. Yes I would go during a couple of week days and my patience would probably be sustained by some good reading material including my camera instructions…
Have invested in some new lenses this year and intend to use them quite a lot.
I also think that your photos will take a lot of effort to even get half close if I’m lucky enough to snap something.
Thanks again for sharing those excellent pics.
:eagerness:

Very nice pictures.

Brilliant shots.

Apologies for the late reply.

Thanks for the kind comments guys and to answer some questions:

Yes the Loop is very accessible as it falls within the southern part of the Snowdonia National Park.

If you fancy dipping your toe in the water Pegasus911 then I’d opt for a location known as “Cad East” as it’s a 10 minute walk (if that), to the place you want to be and once arrived is relatively flat in that part of the country.

The expense involved is more to do with the cost of petrol to get there and back in the first place!

It’s very much a case of pot luck if you see anything if I’m honest but I reckon on average there’s a 75% chance you will!

Most people who travel any sort of distance tend to book into a local B&B to maximise their stay.

One thing to note, the RAF don’t fly training missions at weekends or bank holidays!

If you require any further info, PM me and I’ll be happy to help!

Cheers
Tim

Tim, that first Eagle pic would make a good sales publicity poster. Not that there’s anything wrong with the other shots. Love the Tonkas having fun.

Just amazing, am seeing more of this location on other forums. How accessible is it. How long walking from where you leave the car, any costs involved and do you need to book. I’m hooked. Well done mate. My fav is the Tornado giving it the Beans…..