A truly special event marking the 70th anniversary of the Air Station’s and the Fleet Air Arm’s preparations for carrier operations is planned for this year’s Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton International Air Day on Saturday 8 July 2017.
Five hours of incredible flying displays and extensive static displays will feature an array of fast jets, helicopters, historic warbirds that flew at the original Air Day in 1947 and an exclusive line-up of international participants from ten nations.
70 years ago, the Swordfish and Sea Fury were quite a sight in the Somerset skies as they amazed the crowds at Yeovilton and fittingly these rare naval heritage aircraft will take centre stage once again. Their modern-day counterparts will also be providing a spectacular sight demonstrating the contribution made by naval aviation to Protect Our Nation’s Interests.
Airshow favourites from the RAF include the Red Arrows, Typhoon, and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to showcase the Best of Britain. While our military guests from across Europe will put on roaring displays, with the highlights being the French Navy Rafale pair, Belgian and Danish Air Force F-16s, Czech Air Force Gripen and a rare and dazzling appearance by the Swiss Air Force national display team – The Patrouille Suisse. Other allied nations will provide static displays offering visitors an opportunity to meet the aircrew and view the aircraft up close, with the US Air Force’s mammoth C-17 Globemaster a real favourite with children.
Throughout the day, families will have the chance to enjoy plenty of ground entertainment. There’s discounted entry to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, hands on engineering fun for kids, interactive military displays, performances from military bands, classic and military vehicle exhibitions, funfair, simulators, helicopter pleasure flights, trade stalls and much, much more! Whether you’re a wide-eyed first timer or a seasoned airshow veteran, be prepared for a wonderful day out!
Discounted advance tickets are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton-airday or over the counter at participating Tourist Information Centres.