We hope that this year’s aircraft section will enable visitors to ‘get up close and personal’ to many of the exhibits and to get a buzz from the activity on the airfield. Although not an airshow, we are hoping for many visitors to fly in and visit us, thus adding both to the number of exhibits on show and the activity on the airfield. In addition, of course, there is always the possibility of flying by the Historic Fast Jets of Delta Jets who are based at Kemble - just keep your eyes and ears open!!

This year, for the first time, we are proud to present the British Legion Spitfire and associated ground display. Built from original Supermarine drawings this full size replica is in aluminium and contains many original items and took over 7000 hours to construct. The iconic Spitfire will be well known to almost everyone but few will have had the opportunity to sit in one. This year you can do just that and be photographed as well - a great souvenir from your visit!!! This is a unique opportunity not to be missed and all profits go to charitable works of the Legion. 

Also, for the first time this year, we have the Folland Gnat simulator. This will enable you to go through the start up for flight procedures complete with sound effects, so if you have ever wanted to “start” a historic jet fighter, then this is for you. Profits from this exhibit help to support charitable hospital work in Kenya.

The Bristol Britannia will again be open for inspection. This was the last flying example and is always very popular. The Blackburn Buccaneer which is currently under restoration to taxable condition is a Gulf War veteran and its cockpit should be open for inspection. All donations go towards the preservation and restoration of these historic aircraft. A number of other aircraft have also been promised for the static display by various owners. 

Two old friends from previous years will be flying in again this year. The Antonov AN 2 from the AN2 Club will again amaze visitors who have not seen one before as it is the world’s largest single engined biplane. Its slow speed flying is almost unbelievable as it will hopefully demonstrate as it takes off. This anachronistic aircraft will also be open for viewing for a small donation towards its upkeep.

The 1950’s Fennec (North American T-28 Trojan) ground attack aircraft is also making a welcome return to Kemble. If you have ever wanted to fly in a piston engined war bird - this is your chance. The Cobalt Unit Cancer Charity raffles a flight (donated by the owner) on Saturday and Sunday in this aircraft - so get down to their stand and buy lots of tickets. Not only will you be supporting a worthwhile cause you will have a chance to win a unique flight that will live in your memory for ever.

Finally, subject to aircraft availability, pleasure flights should be available from Air Atlantique in one of their historic fleet of classic aircraft. 

As we said at the beginning, keep your eyes and ears open, as things can happen quite unexpectedly and you will not want to miss that special moment.