Explosions and gunfire mark the RAFA recreation of the Battle of Britain at Shoreham yesterday
It may have been a wet day yesterday - and much the same today - but there were still thrills to be had at the RAFA Show, Shoreham.
The atmosphere at the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain was quite special. There was a real sense of comradeship in the air, and it was a very good-humoured crowd.
Planes lined up before simulated dogfight, RAFA Show, Shoreham
Highlights included a scramble that gave a realistic idea of the atmosphere during the Battle of Britain with Spitfires and Hurricanes in simulated dogfights with a Messerschmitt.
On the ground there were extensive static displays, including a BAE Systems Harrier GR9 from 41(R) Squadron, doing its stuff on the ground and in the sky overhead.
Vintage RAC motorbike, RAFA Show, Shoreham
There were also vintage gliders, classic cars, a fun fair, a marevellous old flying boat, still in operation: the PBY-5A Catalina, simulator rides and children’s entertainment is available as well.
Shoreham Airport is the UK’s oldest commercial airport, and came into its own earlier this year when companies like Aero Alliance flew people back and forth from Europe in their safe, propellor buoyed craft when the Icelandic volcano was at its worst.
View from Catalina of crowds queuing to get on board the troop 'copter at RAFA Show, Shoreham
Because of the weather, there was a rare chance to meet and mingle with pilots on the ground, many in vintage “Dad’s Army” gear and WWII flying gear.
You could also find out what a troop ‘copter is like for yourself, and see over the marvellous old PBY-5A Catalina, piloted by Captain John Warman.
Captain John Warman, pilot of PBY-5A Catalina, normally based at Duxford Airfiel
Captain Warman gave the thousands at the show yesterday a close look at this graceful old bird in the air.
It might be noted, the Catalina was the first craft I flew in as a small child, and I spent most of that trip trying to get out the window. But what a great view there is from the glass bubble in the fuselage.
And if you want to get above the action, consider a picturesque flight along the Sussex coastline with Aero Alliance. They take up seven passengers at a time in flights from Shoreham airport in their Piper Chieftain for £260.
Dan, a pilot with Aero Alliance, based at Seaford
