What are the CAf airshos like these days? Last time I went was in 1998.
Hello Hampden 98,
I guess I have mixed feelings about Airsho this time round which is probably a reflection of my own geeky, detailed view of airshows 🙂
It did feel it was a little light and only one type participant in the static park and flying programme from the USAF (although it was an A-10 which I haven’t seen for a long time). Compared to the last time I went (2002) the warbird count was low which is more the reason for me going. This was a view supported from a more authoritative (slightly less obsessive) source at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum, photos of my visit will be posted soon.
After my introspection though I did tell myself not to be quite so critical as how many times do you get to see FiFi, 3 x B-25’s, a Helldiver and P-63 with only shelling out $20 for entry. My lasting memory, putting to one side my Avenger experience, was of FiFi flying over the top of us as we departed the airshow in the evening. I dread to think how many flies I caught as I stood there with my mouth open. 🙂
Paul
Hi Skyraider,
Nice pics thanks for sharing, it’s always nice getting to go up in one of those old planes I had a Perma-Grin after I went up in a Hudson bomber.
Did the Kingcobra and Helldiver fly when you were there? I wouldn’t mind seeing those fly.
Cheers,
Daniel
Hello Daniel,
The Kingcobra and Helldiver flew although the former only managed to do so on the first day. I love the Kingcobra, in the nicest possible sense (and I recognise it is a personal PoV) I find that one ugly aircraft, which adds to its charm! 🙂
As for the Helldiver, this is my second trip to Airsho and the first time I have managed to see it. It was great to see, even better though, for the appropriate donation they will take you up in it. I opted for the Avenger this time round but if I went again… after the B-25, FiFi…
This is the reason I shouldn’t be allowed into an Airshow with a credit card.
Paul
Lovely tranquil photos Roobarb, especially the chipmunk. At least I can now tell my Girlfirend how to make me feel festive – put a running piston engine in the picture. Thanks for posting.
Sky
Again I can only pass on my congratualtions. In addition those good people at Flying Machines TV have posted a video of the first flight. It can be found at:
http://www.flyingmachinestv.co.uk/index.html
Beautiful film of a beautiful aircraft, thanks to all who were involved in this. 😀
Great photos Penpusher, thanks for sharing what must also have been a fantastic experience.
I can’t really add to what has already been said so will just say you have brought a huge smile to my face. Thank You.
That is a lovely shot of the Meteor and Hunter – I feel somewhat hesitant about downloading mine now! 🙂 Thanks for posting
That is a fantastic air to air shot – thanks very much for posting. 🙂
Sad day
That news brings a tear to my eye, first airshows I went to were there. The memory of the shack displaying in particular will remain a long pleasant one 🙂
Pilatus P2
I thought it was a cracking show, always think there is a good atmosphere and especially if you get that “autumn gold” from the sun.
I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed seeing the Pilatus putting on a display, very well flown by John Romain (according to the commentators). In the years I have been visiting Duxford I have seen it put in one of the back hangers and had my doubts it was airworthy. I was just wondering last time it put on a Duxford display, I believe it went to Little Gransden recently, but it must have been many years before that?
It must be a lovely aircraft to fly and couldn’t help thinking that it isn’t that big a step up from a PA28-181 😉
Blimey what a picture
Mark 12 – Thank you so much for the 2nd photo, am not sure about Hawker Heaven, more Hawker P**n. But there again I am sad and need to get out more often!
I went to Cape Town last year and paid a visit to the SAAF museum which is on Ysterplaat (excuse the spelling) air base. There are a few static aircraft including a Vampire and a beautiful Ventura. The exhibits will while away a couple of hours and you get the feeling the curator was chuffed to have interested visitors.
It is a bit of an odd place to go to, I didn’t fancy braving public transport as the surrounding area looked a bit “lively”. Instead I got a cab which was a bit bizarre as the security into the air base looks intimidating until you mention you are going to the museum. I must have looked very unthreatening and very much an aircraft nut!
If you want any more details then look here http://www.saafmuseum.co.za
Ah the memories.
Somewhere I have a (not very good) photo of a number of the B25’s parked up at Blackbushe. Pretty much the start of my warbird obsession although I was equally interested in getting my Father to buy me a mars bar!
Many thanks for the photos Stringbag, am always delighted to see them of this aircraft.
Must try and find away of getting down to Bournemouth for one of the flights, smile would last for at least a week.
Bolingbroke bonanza
Colin,
Thanks very much for highlighting some fantastic footage.
Skyraider 🙂