To all those enthusiasts questioning our apparent lack of fast jet displays here is the latest information available. All that is currently on the website is expected and with 6 weeks to go there is still time to add to the list. We at the Air Show Office do our utmost in encouraging and chasing the very best in aviation flying to come and display at the show. It must be understood however, that we cannot compel anyone to come. We write to all our NATO partners and to whoever else we feel may be interested in coming asking them to think about our show when planning their schedules early in the year. The aircrews rate this show extremely highly and really enjoy the hospitality and friendly approach they receive. We always emphasis this when we invite them back and this often sways them towards us.
This year is proving to be a little more difficult to attract flying display aircraft and this has been made more difficult because the RAF is only providing a Typhoon and Hawk fast jet displays this year. We must always be aware of the considerable strain put on operational aircraft and aircrews during the current operations.
Although we are lacking in fast jet displays we do still have a full 7 hour display with 5 international display teams and wealth of other aircraft. We are constantly trying to bring variety to the show and we never give up.
I think with the Red Arrows, Patrouille de France and the Vulcan displaying you can’t get many better displays than them.
Now if you managed to get something like a French 235 or Fench C-135 or even a French C-130 in the static that would be great!
Posted by Carl Duckworth | May 28, 2009, 11:47 amI totally appreciate your problem with regards to this year’s RAF participation, especially as the MOD let you down with the Harrier also.
Please keep trying to attract a couple more fast jets though, a 7 hour flying display needs them to maintain a good balance to the show.
If the aircrews rate the show so highly, why are they not attending this year I wonder? What reason was given for the Belgians withdrawing the
F-16? To rub salt into the wounds they’re attending Yeovilton, as well as the Dutch F-16, French Rafale etc. etc.
Keep trying and hopefully you can cheer us up with a couple of last minute surprises!*crosses fingers*
Posted by Nigel Hughes | May 28, 2009, 12:45 pmOne of the reasons that waddo has struggled to get fast jet displays this year is because, they are going up against koksijde in belguims airshow, and they have got the belgian and netherlands f16, the swiss hornet, french rafale, grippen, plus others displaying.
Posted by stephen youngs | June 5, 2009, 2:15 pmThe lack of fast jets is disappointing it’s true, but I don’t think that will spoil the show. Waddington’s the only airshow I can get to and I’d happily go if there was 10 or 100 aircraft turning up.. it’s doesn’t matter.
Seeing the vulcan flying again is worth the cost of the ticket alone!!
Posted by Keiron Lammond | May 29, 2009, 12:53 pmAs the RAF’s premier event, the line up is disappointing when considering the “fast jet” line up at other venues. It is a little disappointing when the program is “filled out” with items like a Grob display! Why does Waddington always struggle with this? Even Sunderlands sea front show includes F16 displays! I can only hope for late additions as this display does not warrant the admission price and a trip to RIAT instead would be more worthwhile.
Posted by Tim Bye | May 30, 2009, 10:03 amit would be nice to see an english electric lightning again
Posted by baines497 | April 23, 2010, 8:47 pmWe would love to bring a Lightning to the show. Unfortunately, there are no flying examples in Europe, we do however; have a great example here at Waddington painted in 5 Sqn colours and sat outside the squadron. It makes a great photo opportunity and there may be a chance to sit in the cockpit.
Posted by rafwaddingtonairshow | April 26, 2010, 3:27 pmI too understand you guys do try to get the best aircraft possible. But why do other aircraft pull out? It’s meant to be a premier show. F16, mig29,Raffale,f15,su27/30,classic jets,jaguar,hunter,vampire,sea vixen. Now that would be a show. Come on all you other displays get to the best airshow on the circuit.
Posted by Dave Barrott | June 2, 2009, 10:24 amWaddington seems to be suffering again due to a clash with a major airshow in Europe, this time Koksidje, Belgium. The major theme of this show is “30 years of the F-16″ so the Belgian and Dutch F-16 display ships are there, as are the French Rafale and Swiss F-18. I wouldn’t have thought a quick hop across the North Sea would be a problem though, indeed the Belgian Alphas are doing that.
Maybe Waddo would have been better sharing the next weekend with Yeovilton and sharing some display items with them? Due to the geographical location of each airfield I doubt the crowd at either of them would be affected by them sharing the date.
Posted by Nigel Hughes | June 4, 2009, 1:02 pmcannot beleive we don’t even have a tornado or 2 flying!!!! come on waddas. this is the RAF. I fail to believe that we are overstretched our commitments elswhere in the world that we cant even get f3s or harriers to waddington. Would be nice at to have some us fighters showing their american muscle. Please please please get a couple of flybys from sum of the british defence boys.
Posted by mark varley | June 5, 2009, 8:49 pmFirstly I think we all have to except that airshows are and never will be like they were!
Defence cuts operation commitments and airforces that just can’t justly the cost of attending airshows like they used too are all reasons. Also there has been a cut back in the number of ‘display pilots’ long gone are the days when any old pilot would turn up in any old plane and threw it around the skys, there are no USAF Display pilots in Europe for a start hence why we only get USAF types on static (If were lucky)
All these reasons make it hard for the Waddington team when it comes to aircraft attending.
However this years show looks poor! Only reason myself and many other people attended last years show was due to Vulcan XH558 Flying, an yes she is due to fly this year but that’s not enough to drag me to this years show, I mean come on!
Waddington has had a large number of airforces over the years attending the base for shows & to use the ACMI ranges surely someone at Waddington still has contacts with these airforces surly we can get one F-16 a Mirage 2000C/N & Swiss F-18 In the flying display its not like these airforces are hard pressed at the moment. USAF owes us a B-52 display after it failed to fly last year! What about the ex eastern bloc countries??? They were happy to join Nato!!! So why are they not showing off their hardware!! We have an An28 from Poland wow that’s all they ever send can’t we ask for something different!
I find it very hard to believe that Waddington team has contacted every airforce in Europe for a start never find globally what’s it cost for a letter or email/ telephone call
Its simple unless you want this year’s show to flop pull out all the stops get in touch with every single airforce at least twice and see what happens! You never know your luck
A Greek F-4 would be great (they failed to show last year)
French AF Rafale
US Navy P-3 would all be a start, Anything from one of the South American country’s you never know if you don’t ask you don’t get! simple! oh and ask the Germans to send two F-4’s please one static one flying!
Thank you and good luck
Posted by neil senior | June 6, 2009, 7:36 am…Can Somebody Please Tell Me Where Has The Information On The Lockheed Constellation Gone???,It Was Definately On Previous Listing And I Bought My Tickets In Anticipation Of Seeing This Wonderful Aircraft…Then Nothing.
It’s Going To Be A Poor Airshow This Year At Waddington,And No Amount Of Excuses Are Going To Change That Fact.
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 6, 2009, 8:27 amThe Lockheed Constellation was listed as provisionally attending the Waddington Airshow. However the major sponsor withdrew their support for this aircraft approximately 4 weeks ago, and the last we heard she is not expected to appear anywhere in the short term. As soon as we received notification, we removed the listing from our website.
Posted by rafwaddingtonairshow | June 11, 2009, 10:34 amWell, to the people who don’t think it is worth the admission fee i have one thing to say DON’T GO THEN and shut up MOANING about it. I’m sure the organisers are trying there best to put on a good show and it’s not their fault display aircraft pull out or choose to go else where closer to home and save their tax payers some money
Posted by Mark | June 7, 2009, 4:07 pmI’m sure those of us who have moaned won’t attened pal! but theres no point saying we are all happy to attended the organisers need to know how the public feels its a poor line up best thing they can do is cancel show and save face or pull out all the stops!
Posted by neil senior | June 11, 2009, 4:09 pmI totally agree with you. I have attended Waddington since they pulled the plug on Finningly, and i have to say that i have seen better line ups at Southport see front. I for one will not be attending. The shear thought of 5 display teams and a Grob does nothing for me. It only needs the Vulcan to go un-servicable, which might well happen, and you could end up with the biggest static park line up in Europe.
Waddington is always penned as being the raf’s premier event, well I’m sorry guys, if this is all you can come up with, well, I’m at a loss. We all know about commitments abroad and budget cuts, but take a look at the reviews in any airshow mag, and they always seem to pull something off. I think it’s off to RIAT for me, i hope to be back at Waddo next year. Who knows.
Posted by Alan Bury | June 29, 2009, 10:11 pmSo we have a Merlin along with Tornado, F-15 and Harrier in the static park. Why are these not flying? Granted I like to have a good line up in the static park (at present it looks more like civilian flying club anyway) but as they can attend in static why can they not be flying? Maybe not the F-15 but at least the RAF machines…
Posted by Tony Greenfield | June 8, 2009, 12:11 amHi no way you will get an F-15 flying there are no quailified F15 display pilots in UK or Europe last time an F15 flew in UK at RIAT years ago the pilot was flown in from the West Coast demo team to carry out the display.
Posted by neil senior | June 9, 2009, 4:40 pmI think you always put on an excellent show and I for one am really looking forward to it. I realise the hard work the team at Waddington put in,and am thankful we get a show at all in the current climate. Many thanks to you all.
Posted by Leighton Fisher | June 8, 2009, 10:10 amI agree with you there so frustrating. I too like a good static but it just rubs salt into the wound. These aircraft should be in the air showing us what they were built for. This could be the last Waddington I attend. Rait is infanitly superior. Come on Waddo prove me wrong.
Posted by Dave barrott | June 8, 2009, 7:47 pmOn the plus side, the static park is definitely improving with both an F-15 and an F-15E as well as the possible showing of a classic Lightning and an HH-60 Pavehawk
Posted by Tony Greenfield | June 9, 2009, 4:50 pmCome on if you want to see F-15s go and sit at end of Lakenheath runway watch them all day there hardly show stoppers these days!
Posted by neil senior | June 11, 2009, 4:11 pmReally hope the vampire, meteor and venom come. I remember them as a boy. Haven’t seen them since. You have put a smile back my face and got me all excited again. Thanks to all at airshow office.
Posted by Dave Barrott | June 10, 2009, 3:15 pmI remember going to the airshow a good few years back (when I was young) and the flying display was brill! I remember seeing the stealth, tornados, harriers, f16′s, B52 and loads of other noisey fast jets! I would look foward to going the airshow with my dad and loved everything about it. This year im refusing to pay £40+ for me to bring my own family as im bored of the same old line up of same old display teams! All are just various versions of the red arrows and all do the same thing.
Dont get me wrong, the Vulcan is amazing, but what about all the other exciting loud noisey fast planes!
I can go sit in the car outside coningsby and see the typhoons for free. Come on Waddington…..what are you playing at!
Posted by faye | June 10, 2009, 4:24 pmI think a lot of people are expecting too much here. I have been attending airshows for the last 25 years and sadly the number of airshows each year has reduced and the number of aircraft at airshows has reduced. However, Waddington airshow is one of the few that are still on and they really do seem to be trying to get as much as possible.I agree there are far too many civil light aircraft at the show (As a spotter i have no interest in them) but even i accept in this day and age Waddo are just trying to fill in gaps where they would love to really have military hardware. I say keep up the good work and i will still be attending.(Even if you don’t manage to get a French Herc in the static!lol)
Posted by Carl Duckworth | June 11, 2009, 10:54 amTheyre hoping for an Austrian Herc,whill that do?
Posted by Leighton Fisher | June 12, 2009, 12:11 pmYes that would be nice! also be good to see the RAF Alpha Jets and the other Boscome Down Aircraft too fingers crossed!
Posted by neil senior | June 12, 2009, 6:53 pmThe Austrain Herc will be nice to see although their Hercs are ex RAF ones unfortunately. The list is definately improving, theres not too many places these days to see a 1-11! I will be snapping away with my camera at that for sure.
Posted by Carl Duckworth | June 16, 2009, 12:06 pmNoticed the listings getting better and better! I think the staff at RAF Waddington need a pat on the back to get what you have already. And to all the moaners asking for this and that and threatening to go elsewhere: Go. I would pay just to watch static aircraft,so to get some flying is fine by me. Be grateful for an airshow at all. (Sermon over!!!)
Posted by Leighton Fisher | June 12, 2009, 12:10 pmNot Moaning! How rude!
Just saying that im not a plane spotter/enthusiast and i have a young family. People need entertaining (kids etc) and a good static display but poor air display is not going to do that. Like I said, I love the air show and would love to go, but the price increases each year to see the same thing over and over again. Just want something new and exciting.
It seems the only people that get all excited about going and paying the money are spotters etc. What about the rest of us?
Posted by faye | June 12, 2009, 2:34 pmI understand your (The Waddington Airshow Display Organisation Teams’) problems with getting displays from abroad completely, as foreign air arms are also struggling with commitments because of Afghanistan and other conflicts, and also it must be very frustrating the RAF is providing only a Typhoon and Hawk in the fast jet department this year due to cutbacks due to the economic climate.
I do find it annoying that there is a lack of fast jet action both from abroad and the RAF, as I feel solo acts like the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the Tornado GR4 or F3 & the Mig 29 Fulcrum entice and excites the general public & families (especially the kids) more than say, an Alpha Jet, a G115E Tutor & a Pitts Special.
However, I appreciate the fact you have 4 major display teams for this years display (Red Arrows, Patrouille de France on the Sunday, Team Orliki & The Breitling Jet Team) and also the good mix of warbirds and classic jets in the civilian segment of your display, such as The Classic Flights Meteor, Vampire & Venom, the Vulcan, B-17 ‘Sally B’ & an Antonov AN-2, and fully commend the effort you put in to provide a thoroughly entertaining show, and I am sure that in the 3 or 4 weeks leading up to the show, there will hopefully be more in the way of high profile military aicraft from either the RAF or foreign arms in the flying display.
Posted by Daniel Baillie | June 12, 2009, 3:11 pmIf you consider how many different types of aircraft were available 25 years ago to what is available today military wise, its hardly surprising the content appears to be repetetive.
I’m convinced the staff in the airshow office work really hard to secure different types of aircraft but if they are not available they won’t be appearing.
The airshow office has already stated the RAF has said they will only provide a typhoon & hawks as flying participants, so how do you expect them to get flying tornados or harriers.
I’m guessing here, but as for being on static & not flying could it be something to do with fighting a war on 2 fronts? – a/c abroad in theatre, not having aircrew home long enough to build up to display standard, and besides if you were spending 6 months overseas at a time would you want spend the weekends of your 4 months at home flying at airshows or spend them with your wife & children.
Personally I think £17 advance ticket price is very reasonable for an adult for 7 hrs of flying + static & everything else there is to see compared to what you get elsewhere for your money
Posted by Rosie | June 12, 2009, 7:48 pmXH558 coming home again enough said ticket bought!
Posted by james | June 13, 2009, 7:44 pmI have to agree that the lineup is not that great. Seems ridiculous that 2 of the RAFs prime jets – the Harrier and the Tornado will not be displaying at what has been described as the “biggest RAF airshow”. Not even doing the role demo by the looks of it. Without a doubt some people will be put off the show unless the organizers pull a rabbit out the hat in the remaining weeks to the show.
Posted by Lawrence | June 14, 2009, 1:42 pmYes Faye I agree with you. I’ve been going to air shows since 1980 and I am finding Waddington increasingly expensive and boring. No Harrier this year is yet another let down. Maybe th organizers should look at the air show calender at the beginning of the year and pick a weekend that doesn’t clash with other major air shows. With so many similar comments on the lack of fast jets, which makes the day so exciting for us mere mortals, the people at Waddo really have to get in there and book the right planes early, or risk losing their many committed followers.
Posted by sharyn | June 15, 2009, 7:30 amits not a case of booking early, it whats available, & the participation list changes constantly even on the day of the show.
Yes Waddington is competing with an European airshow, but if our MOD won’t send aircraft overthere for he same reasons they don’t send much to Waddington, you can’t blame other Governments for not dispatching their aircraft over here.
Posted by Rosie | June 22, 2009, 9:19 pmharrier not displaying is hardly cause for concern come on we have all seen them countless times before we want something differant flying!
Posted by neil senior | June 23, 2009, 3:51 pmLike many other enthusiasts, I have been to many shows for many years, Waddington has produced great shows with some great participation; aka Israeli F15s, Singapore A4s, Indian SU29s to name some. Let all of us not forget that with rising costs in fuel and aviation insurance, a reduction in some of the gas guzzlers is going to happen. Yes they may indeed be turning up at other shows, but that is down to the Sqn’s deciding on where to attend at the begining of their financial year and displaying somewhere different. Finally spare a thought to the staff and personnel, it is all very well being nit picky with aircraft participants, but most of these people would have been volunteered to assist with the weekends events. Something a lot of personnel would rather not work, especially after being deployed on operations throughout the year. I know, as I am a serving member in the RAF at a different operating unit. My advice, be GRATEFUL for what you get!!!!
Posted by Martin Welch | June 17, 2009, 5:49 pmHow about an Australian Seahawk in the static! Waddo has had one before and two Australian Frigates(between them carry 3 Seahawks) are due in Portsmouth on the 26th June(I guess something to do with one of the frigates earlier namesakes being commissoned at Portsmouth 26/6/1913). Highly unlikely they will be here for over a week but you never know!
Posted by Carl Duckworth | June 18, 2009, 1:54 pmNow that would be something thats the kind of thing the waddo staff should try! its getting very close to show and flying display still lacking! time to contact those airforces again guys!!!!
Posted by neil senior | June 18, 2009, 4:47 pmAre not the Austrailian Frigates due to leave for Canada before the airshow?
Posted by Rosie | June 28, 2009, 1:41 pmI think it has to be said that the USAF should be ashamed that they dont offer to participate in the airshow. They happily set up their huge bases in this country but are not prepared to give us some jet action at the shows. Doesnt seem right somehow. Come on waddington … persuade em lol
Posted by Lawrence | June 18, 2009, 5:09 pmperhaps the yanks have come to realise they zare just not good enough to fly alongsid the RAF
Posted by david burton | July 6, 2009, 5:47 pmJust had a quick look to see whats flying and whats static and they have added a number of aircraft since my last visit, well done for that. Still there is a lack of fast air. Loving the Tristar, VC10′s though.
Keep it up.
Posted by richard | June 19, 2009, 7:16 pmI too am very disappointed at the lack of FJ displays at Waddington. This show is always the centrepoint of our season and this year will be no exception. However, it is such a shame that there can’t be at least one other afterburning military jet flying at the show. The static looks great and hopefully not much will cancel at this late stage, but if you could just magic somethng up..it would be blooming marvellous!
Oh, and do you control the weather? Its not looking too bad at the moment, but we are all hacked off with getting soaked!! hahaha
Posted by Neil Allison | June 22, 2009, 3:49 amNow not even a single Tornado at the show. This aircraft is the backbone of our air force. What is going on? The F3′s surely could be tempted to come..it’ll probably be the last opportunity for anyone to see one anyway. Very disappointing!
Posted by Neil Allison | June 23, 2009, 1:12 pmI must admit to overlooking the fact that there isnt a Tornado listed! You are very right in saying its very disappointing indeed! I think the people at Waddo do seem to be doing a grand job in increasing the amount of aircraft but have they overlooked the Tornado too?!
Hopefully with still over a week to go now, the omission highlighted by Neil Allison of no Tornados can be sorted by Waddington. The lack of Harriers on the airshow is understandable with so few left but not the Tornado.(Although i just checked Fairfords list and they only have one British Tornado) Still i finally ordered my ticket today!
Posted by Carl Duckworth | June 23, 2009, 1:30 pmJust noticed you have taken off the vampire,meteor and venom. For what reason was this done. No sooner do you give with one hand but then take with the other. They nearly made up for the lack of fast jets. Was really looking forward to seeing those three again. Disapointed again!!!
Posted by Dave barrott | June 23, 2009, 3:56 pmI Have Been To Waddington Airshow Every Year Since 1997.Unfortunately This May Be My Last Time.There Are Only So Many Display Teams You Can Watch Before A Coma Sets In.People Do Not Go Just For Aerobatic Teams And The Odd Fly Through.The Oraganisers Of This Event Really Need To Re-assess This Event And Plan A Time That Does Not Clash With Other Airshows.I Have Been All Over Europe To Displays With A Great Mix Of Fast Jets And Vintage Warbirds,And This Is The Worst Line Up Yet.
No Harrier(Which I Might Add,Never Fails To Please The Kiddies In The Crowd),No Tornado,I Have Read So Many Excuses Why This Year Is So Poor,And Thats All They Are Excuses!.Most Other Airshows Manage A Great Display,Why Not This One.Also Why Isn’t There Much Input From The R.A.F. Regarding The Concerns Expressed Here.This Isn’t About Moaning,As Some People On Here Think,Quite Frankly People Who Make Comments Like That Are The Same People Who Never Put Their Cash Into Places Like Waddington!!,I Do!.No,This Is About Letting The R.A.F. Know That Their Customers And Supporters Are Not Happy With The Service They Are Providing For The Money They Are Charging
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 23, 2009, 4:08 pmAgree with you there buddy, I pre-book my tickets and seats every year 7 months in advance. Money better off in my account and pay on the day if the line up is any good. Not just ticket price. All the merchendise, raffles, collections,ect. Come on r.a.f give us something back as a thanks!!
Posted by Dave barrott | June 23, 2009, 4:21 pmRegarding Dave Barrotts Post…….I Agree Totally,Once Again A Major Let Down.With No Updates On The Website,Shameful
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 23, 2009, 4:10 pmThanks mate nice to know I’m not the only one.
Posted by Dave barrott | June 23, 2009, 4:22 pmNo Problem Dave,I Know About 50 – 60 Enthusiasts Who Are Giving Waddington A Miss This Year. I Booked My Ticket When The Constellation And Sally B Were Being Touted On The Waddington Air Show Web Site.The Only Reason I’m Going This Year Is To Take My Disabled Lad To The Show,Otherwise I Would Not Bother.
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 23, 2009, 4:56 pmRe B-17 Sally B,That Is Really Unfortunate Another No Show For This Vintage Warbird.Would’ve Been Great To See Her Fly Along Side The Lanc.
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 23, 2009, 4:13 pmThe lack of fast jets seems to be lacking Waddington. Perhaps try and get Mirage 2000s or French Navy Rafales. Even a Swiss F18 would be great!!
I know you guys are trying so hard but Waddington seems to be lacking aircraft every year even though its my local airshow.
Posted by James Lawson | June 23, 2009, 7:13 pmI have to agree with these latest comments, the flying display is pitiful. I understand operational commitments and general belt tightening but the organisers should try and not schedule the display to clash with other major events – hence the loss of the F16′s. I suppose the static display satisfies the number collecters but I am sure the vast majority of enthusiasts would prefer a few FJ’s being put through their paces. The organisers should be embarrassed that as the “RAF’s premier event” it is surpassed in flying content by pretty much every other air display in the UK.
Posted by Tim | June 23, 2009, 9:05 pmA Harrier and a Tornado now showing in the static. Good work Waddington. Those that arent going are going to miss a good show looking at the numbers of aircraft attending now.
Posted by Carl Duckworth | June 23, 2009, 9:26 pmI Disagree Carl.These Aircraft Are Sat In The Static Display Doing Absolutley Nothing.This Is Nothing But A Piecemeal Jesture To Try To Appease A Growing Number Of Unhappy Airshow Attendants,Who Paying Alot Of Money To This Event Year On Year,And Many People Are Now Feeling Agrgrieved At The Lack Of Care And Concern Show By The Oragnisers And The Lack Of Communication From Them.Alot Of Aircraft Advertised,Provisionally Or Not Have Gone,Most Times With No Notice Or Warning.The Organiser Beeter Be Warned,Many People Will Stay Away Next Year No Matter What Aircraft They Manage To Attract,Purely On The Aweful Show They Have Got This Year,With Their Reputation Severley Damaged
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 24, 2009, 1:57 pmcome on! Tornado and Harrier how boring!!!! If it was a Spanish Harrier or Italian Tornado fair play but we have seen the RAF machines over and over again I don’t go to shows to see RAF Tornados and Harriers! boring
Posted by neil senior | June 24, 2009, 4:44 pmBoring? Never. The Harrier has always been a crowd pleaser. I doubt many besides the serious plane spotters would be able to tell the difference between a British and Spanish Harrier in the air. And are you saying a Spanish pilot would put on a better display than one of our own…..
Posted by Tony Greenfield | June 26, 2009, 11:55 pmI don’t think a Spanish pilot would be any better display wise may do something a little differant maybe? just be nice to see a Harrier in differant colour scheme thats all something a little differant
Posted by neil senior | June 29, 2009, 4:29 pmLeuchers have 2 F16s and a mig 29. Sunderland have 2 F16s. Yeovilton have 2 F16s and a Rafale. Sorry Waddo is not good enough just having a typhoon. will be spending a lot of time around the static this year and not taking too much notice of whats in the air apart from the vulcan.
Posted by Michael Byrne | June 24, 2009, 8:12 amI don’t think you can compare Leuchars & Waddington at this point in the display season, We’ve all seen how the participants list change even down to the last week before the show. I hope Leuchars don’t lose any of their a/c but it wouldn’t surprise me if they do, there is plenty of time between now & September for things to to change
Posted by Rosie | June 27, 2009, 7:49 amSeems to me that Waddington puts these things on the website to get ticket sales and then removes them just before the show. Happens every year without fail. I mean take Sally B … two weeks before the show it has slight engine snags. Surely that can be ironed out in a fortnight and still be able to fly?
As for the tornado and harrier being put in static .. why oh why are they not flying? Even without a display pilot they can still do a flypast or two along the crowd line.
Its about time someone started a petition to the RAF about providing the taxpayer with better displays seeing as we pay for them. Unless waddington do something very quickly this is going to be the “RAF’s Premier Aviation Flop”!
Posted by Lawrence | June 24, 2009, 12:59 pmYeah I Agree Even A Flypast Would Be Better Than These Aircraft Stood On The Ground.This Event This Year Is Poor,And I Don’t Think The Organisers Should Use The Phrase R.A.F’S Premier Airshow Anymore,It Certainly Is Not
Posted by Andrew Freeman | June 24, 2009, 1:50 pmI too am sorry Sally B won’t be flying. How come you havn’t sorted an alternative, take Biggin Hill they replaced Sally straight away with a F86 Sabre.
Posted by Dave Barrott | June 24, 2009, 1:45 pmI tell you why. RAF Waddington could not run a bath nevermind an airshow. I used to love this airshow because it was a real good day out. What made it so good was the international flying displays, the loud jets and the demos with the herc and the role demo etc. Somehow they have managed to lose very component this year. Maybe its time to call it a day!
Posted by Lawrence | June 24, 2009, 1:58 pmhave to agree! they really need to sort themselves out.
Posted by faye | June 24, 2009, 8:23 pmConstructive criticism is one thing but I’m sorry to say you all sound like children spitting the dummy because Waddington haven’t got the aircraft you want. Other shows may well have aircraft that Waddington hasn’t but that doesn’t mean they, the aircraft, are available for the Waddington weekend.
I really have a hard time believeing that you think Waddington Organisers don’t care or can’t be bothered. There is NO role demo this year, there are only displays from Hawks & Typhoon as far as fast jets go. Waddington can only only make the requests if the Air Force Board, or who ever, say no, there is nothing they can do, they have no right to insist anything appears or displays. Perhaps you should take your grumbling to a higher authority….
and as for losing Sally B, she missed ALL of last season due to engine problems, why do think they can fix her in 2 weeks????, I’m sure it is not to their advantage to have her sitting on the ground!!!
Posted by Rosie | June 24, 2009, 3:36 pmRosie, it may well be the case that some aircraft are not able to make the Waddington weekend, leading to a poor aircraft turnout, but then surely it is only fair to reduce the ticket price. They are still charging full wack for half of what we had in previous years….
Posted by Lawrence | June 24, 2009, 5:09 pmOnly just noticed that the Met Police air support unit has been taken off the static. When did that one happen? I was looking forward to seeing that. hmph!
Posted by Lawrence | June 24, 2009, 5:26 pmAnd the special ops Blackhawk has been deleted as well – granted it was a provisional listing only but still another disappointment.
Posted by Tony Greenfield | June 25, 2009, 11:06 pmThat may be true & I see your point, but overheads don’t reduce, they still need to be meet the cost of hiring toilets, barriers, emergency cover, policing traffic, rubbish collection etc
Posted by Rosie | June 24, 2009, 6:33 pmThis is the worst waddington line up ever ! one fast jet in a 7 hour flying display and will properly be on last at 17.00 . One static tornado what the hell is going on with the royal airforce !
Posted by christopher | June 28, 2009, 7:31 pmLong range weather forecast not too good. Come on everyone possitive thoughts!!! Lets all push those clouds away.
Posted by Dave barrott | June 29, 2009, 8:44 amPlease God no. Not ANOTHER restricted showing by the Arrows…
Still at least that was better than the 07 quagmire and cancellation on the Sunday.
No blame there to the airshow team. The ubiquitous British weather maybe…
Posted by Tony Greenfield | June 29, 2009, 11:52 pmGod 07 was bad!! Hopefully will come good. Waddo saying bring your sun screen. Fingers crossed.
Posted by Dave barrott | June 30, 2009, 7:15 amIt’s a real shame so much has changed relatively last-minute. I note the Constellation has disappeared fro the listings, as well as the flying Harrier that was there a month or two ago. I missed the Vampire last year so I’ll be pleased to see that fly, and the Breitling Jet Team were pretty amazing at Southend a few years go, so it’ll be nice to see that with the Vulcan (who’s worth every penny on her own!).
Let’s cross our fingers and hope for no last-minute technical problems!
Posted by Dawn Hazle | June 29, 2009, 11:00 amhttp://www.metcheck.com/V40/UK/FREE/dayforecast.asp?zipcode=Waddington&day=5
Great! Rain all day with heavy cloud. Could this years show get any worse?
Posted by Lawrence | June 29, 2009, 11:18 amTo Andrew Freeman: There’s only so many of your messages you can read before a coma sets in! Google an article on typing etiquette and put it into practice because those messages are a headache!
Regarding the airshow the organisers are trying their best and it isnt their fault if they get let down, i’m sure they equally disappointed when someone cancels.
Some people here have the right idea, many pilots/aircrew/airmen have been deployed overseas and havent had the time to train for displays, I am sure they would rather spend their valuable time off with their own family, and taking them on days out, than giving up a lot of their free time for extra training just to entertain a whole bunch of complaining ungrateful people.
Posted by Laura | June 30, 2009, 11:20 amwhy not go friday you can see everything come in to the base, some aircraft do displays to keep people occupied while waiting for aircraft to arrive and it looks like being the best day, last yr on the friday it was brill to watch 4 tornados display fast and very loud n low, the show itself is getting worse i go to airshows (mildenhall,fairford,sunderland,southend etc) to see fast loud jets fly sadly lacking at waddington, and fairford is getting just as bad there were bettr 5 yrs ago when we had the B1 barrel rolling wow. cheers.
Posted by tiz | July 1, 2009, 10:42 amGood grief what a load of miserable totally unwielding so and so’s on here….what do you think the organisers should do then if they send an invite out and someone declines…send the boys round and threaten them until they agree to attend ? and someone banging on about why Sally B won’t be repaired in the two weeks before the show…pleeeeez..the owners say it’s broken and won’t make the show..if as the poster says “it’s a minor engine snag” prehaps they ought to lend their expertise and help to get it in the air again..yeah attendence doe’snt look too super but they have to take what they’re given..if the line up is that much of an affront to people’s sensibilities then don’t go or maybe table a motion for your MP to put forward to the MOD expressing your righteous disgust
Posted by paul sawyer | July 1, 2009, 1:34 pmHeavy showers forecast for Sunday now so hopefully the weather people will be wrong! I dont want to take photos of the surprise French herc in the rain!Ha! If only!
Posted by Carl Duckworth | July 1, 2009, 3:22 pmWell, after lots of thought I won’t be coming. I can drive 45 minutes over to Sunderland and see basically the same for free plus the F 16′s. No disrespect to the organisers, and I truely believe they work very hard, but I sincerely believe numbers will be lower this year and the whole thing needs looking at. Anyway, for those that go have a good time and I do hope the show is a success.
Posted by Keldsyke | July 1, 2009, 3:50 pmAny one know what the four Belgium Alpha jet flypast is about, will the aircraft be based at Waddington or flying in each day? well it looks like what you see is what you get flying display still looks below par static display not to bad just need another few aircraft flying!
Posted by neil senior | July 1, 2009, 4:05 pmMr Neil Senior,
Having read through this blog I have come to a conclusion, you my freind like nothing but to tick and whicge about the performance of others organising events. I have an idea for you, as you know how its done – go set up your own air show and we will all come and see how you perform.
Many thanks for one thing though, the fun search for your amusing comments
Posted by Bert Reynolds | July 3, 2009, 5:17 pmhey no worrys! ha ha If I had the cash I would arange an airshow be a good one too!
Posted by neil senior | July 17, 2009, 4:24 pmMissing the Tornado ………………..:( Missing F-16 ………………………..:( Missing B-1B Lancer ……….:( Missing Grippen ……………:( Missing Harrier ………..:(
Missing Tricoloret …………………:(
I used to rate Waddington’s airshow over RIAT believe it or not, but, sadly not the case however this year.
Please, please Waddington, do your absolute best, to have some tricks up your sleeve for us this weekend. I’ll get cramp if I keep my fingers and toes crossed for too long!
See u Sunday anyway!
Posted by Babsi | July 2, 2009, 8:54 amApparently a Polish M-28 has gone into Cranwell. Not too far from Waddo and would look good in the static as in camo!
Posted by Carl Duckworth | July 2, 2009, 9:08 amI’ve read through the comments with interest, I’ve been attending this show (in the Enthusiasts Chalet/Bomber Harris Chalet too so not just a std entrance ticket) since it took over the reigns from RAF Finningley. I will admit that I’ve been disappointed this year more than most for teh organisers that they have not been able to attract the participants that they have asked. The saddest fact of all if people start staying away in droves because opf what is percieved is a poor line up is the huge drop in charity revenue that will follow – this show raises £100,000′s for charity over the course of the year topped off by the show, so if the attendance suffers then the donations suffer. I understand that the pressure on UK armed forces is enormous at the moment, being stretched across may theatres of operation, none of them on the doorstep and all having a high attrition rate on the personel who are expected to work at this show on their days off – which when you’re busy are very much looked forward to. So in closing, yes I agree with the disapointment of folks in what is honestly a very light program, I will admit I did question what I’m getting for my £190 over the two days but every year when I leave I leave happy as I’ve enjoyed the event, I’m proud of the dedication of our forces in giving up their R&R to act as unpaid drivers, litter pickers, police, security, info posts, agony aunts and all round dogsbodies. If you go, accept the show on face value, enjoy the fact that you’re helping out many worthy causes, put up with whatever the weather throws at us and for god’s sake don’t just moan at the forces personel who are trying to do their best for you on what should be a day off for them. I’d love to see more of the Foreign Participants like the Isreali F-15s, the Indian air force, the Russian Flankers etc but they ain’t gonna be there this year, live with it and decide if you want to support the show and what it stands for or not.
Posted by Debs Haynes | July 2, 2009, 10:04 amwhy all thefuss over the weather?posted 29/7.
the metmen can’t get the weather right for two days let alone 5.
Posted by will spencer | July 2, 2009, 6:02 pmLooking at how many have cancelled off the Fairford list today Waddington isnt looking that bad now.
Posted by Carl Duckworth | July 3, 2009, 10:45 amXh558 not flying this weekend at waddington!! Staying in same hotel as vulcan to the sky spoken to staff who’s just said caa have not signed it off to display, it can fly to and from just not display!!
Posted by Richard | July 4, 2009, 6:48 amsaturday 4th july 09 been to air show waddington very few planes no vulcan flying yet again. very dissapointing day, but weather was amazing
Posted by mike | July 4, 2009, 4:42 pmAm very sorry to say that this years event wasn’t a patch on previous years. The Vulcan not flying was obviously a disappointment to many people, though I was lucky enough to see it in flight on the Saturday of last years show.
The lack of fast jets was more of an issue for me, and when they were out, they seemed to be flying much higher than normal, so none of the chest-pounding ear shattering noise that we come to expect from shows like this
Hopefully things will be better next year
Posted by Mike Swallow | July 4, 2009, 10:16 pmWent to the show yesterday, fairly dissapointing to be honest. Flying display was poor, long gaps in between each displa. The planned based aircraft flypast never materialised. Sentry flypast, Sentinel 2 flypasts, Nimrod flypast but nothing in even loose formation.
The Apache and Lynx pair were a personal highlight which is a true indicator of how poor it was. AS for the static display, not too bad here, Austrian Herc was a nice addition, even if the airframe is ex RAF, and the French E3F was also a welcome addition, apart from that, nothing worth of note.
Lastly, Vulcan not flyng. The guys on the ground said there was some permit they hadnt secured and they would try and recify it for Sundays show. Now a statemet has appeared on the Waddo site saying critical checks had not been done in 2003-2005 !!! adnd had not beed completed before the deadline, which was 3rd July. I know this is not thre organisers fault but as for Vulcan to Sky, that is truly, truly unbeliveable.
rant over
Posted by Ben Hall | July 5, 2009, 7:53 amJust on way home from show. The lack of fast jets did make a big differance.Don’t think I will do waddington again.
Posted by drofstunk | July 5, 2009, 6:09 pm…..Well,That Was Absolutly Abismal.Not Only Was The Flying Display Pityfully Poor,But The Vulcan Was Grounded Cos The Owners Didn’t Have The Intelligence To Make Sure Its Flying Permit Was Sorted.Three Years Now I Have Been To Airshows Only To Have Theis Aircraft Either No Show Or Grounded.This Is Pathetic.As For Waddington,Falsely Advertising A Harrier And A Tornado On The Fliers Tickets And Leaflets Is Tanaumount To Diception.I For One Will Never Waste My Time At That Place Again.I Am DisgustedAt What I Saw Today
Posted by Andrew Freeman | July 5, 2009, 10:54 pmI don’t undersatnd your post, the capitals on each word make it very hard to read, as does your lack of spacing between sentances.
But I think you are saying you have gone for 3 years only the find the vulcan grounded or a no show – hardly surprising you have been disappionted then as this is only her second season.
Posted by Rosie | July 7, 2009, 9:25 pmFirstly How I Type On My Pc Is My Own Personal Choice,Secondly In 2007 The Organisers Of The Yorkshire Airshow At Elvington Advertised The Vulcan As It’s Star Participent With Thousends Attending Only To Be Told It Was A No Show…So Before You Start Picking At Peoples Posts Here And Causing Offense,Firstly Get Your Facts Right.Also If You Do Not Like What I Have Posted,Don’t Make Smart Remarks Just Ignore It Like I Do For Yours
Posted by Andrew Freeman | July 8, 2009, 8:18 amI was disappointed. On a positive note the weather on Sunday was pretty good despite the forecast (however, that was a recipe for the worst sunburn I have had in years despite the sunblock….)
Pleased to see some army equipment – Challanger tank was a welcome addition – pity I couldn’t get any decent photos with all the people swarming round it.
But the flying? The kindest thing I can say is that it was uninspiring. The Typhoon display at the end of the show underscored the weakness of the overall show. No wonder it had gone on last. had it been scheduled around lunch time I would probably have gone home straight after especially given the Vulcan being cancelled.
Of course leaving then would have spared me the approximately 3 hours spent in a jam on the airfield during which time I barely move more than a couple of car’s lengths in 2 hours.
Posted by Tony Greenfield | July 6, 2009, 7:39 amYes Vulcan not flying was a terrible shame though wasn’t the fault of the airshow organizers
Lack of fast jets was! Please next year less display teams more fast jets!
Also who on earth was in charge of barrier placement! It was stupid how close barriers were positioned around aircraft total waste of time form a photographic point of view sort it for next year!!! Please!
On positive note well done on getting the Boscombe Down stuff nice to see also the Austrian AF Herc and new Hawk MK2 & I did enjoy the day out so did my partner (but it could have been some much better!) the weather helped of course. Lots of people are/were disappointed with the show but record numbers of people turned up in the eyes of the RAF and Organizers this means this years show was a success!!! Which isn’t good for us enthusiasts as the organizers now know that they can put on a similar week flying display next year, put barriers stupidly close to aircraft park ice cream vans right behind the aircraft you want to take a picture of etc etc and people will still turn up!In short from an enthusiast Point of view this isn’t good!!!
I hope the organizers take on board the comments given by people and act on them
Posted by neil senior | July 6, 2009, 3:58 pmThe enthusiast does seem to get less and less courtesy at the shows. Although I did note on Sunday they asked people with windbreaks and tents to move them well back from the crowd line – not that I saw many people actually moving…
I think this year was the worst ever for gaggles of family groups walking right in front of the enthusiasts trying to get decent photo. And I arrived about 7.30am. I appreciate that it is almost impossible for the organisers to do anything about this unless they have a third day just for enthusiasts – no flying, stalls or funfairs, just static line photo oportunities.
But yes, better barrier placement would give the photographers a better chance.
Posted by Tony Greenfield | July 6, 2009, 7:33 pmTony,
I think you should remember that this is a FAMILY air show so you should expect gaggles of family’s to be at the show.
If you dont want the stalls, no flying or funfair then try a museum.
Waddington like many other shows provide enclosures for the anoraks like you so pay the extra and stop moaning.
I myself love to see the children at the shows because lets remember they are the future!
I have put a link just for you for the spitfire grandstand.
http://www.waddingtonairshow.co.uk/enclosure.asp?cpID=4
Posted by Richard Crow | July 7, 2009, 6:57 amHi
Yeah as I said on another page. I couldn’t believe the lack of fast jets at the show, especially as there were so many in the statics! I don’t get it, why have your leaflets full of pictures of jets, and announce in the program an f16 and a vulcan then for different reasons neither fly? And then having 4 f16′s in the statics!!! I came to the airshow from North Wales with my wife and daughter it cost us a lot of money in hotel rooms, petrol and the tickets. We sat most of the day waiting for some excitement at the air display missing most of the exhibitions on the airfield not knowing the f16′s weren’t flying as we’d seen it in the leaflet. So we were scared of missing it if we went of for a look around. The Typhoon was brilliant though, a great display, and I enjoyed the red arrows, the apache and lynx display and chinook. Also the falcons parachute display team. It’s so sad as a couple more fast jets would have made a good day out and incredible day out.
Posted by Steve | July 6, 2009, 7:42 pmEveryone deserves a second chance.. hopefully a lesson has been learnt. I will still go next year
Posted by rich | July 6, 2009, 7:50 pmHaving been a visitor to waddington show for a number of years now,and having enjoyed previous shows a great deal, i did conclude after my visit on saturday, that the show was lacking somewhat in comparison to previous events.Perhaps my most vivid memory of this years show was the disappointment reflected in the faces of two small boys who,attending with their father, had just been told that the vulcan would not be flying due to a paperwork oversight.I do think that this situation was rather indefensible,and in these harsh economic times when dad had probably built up the little boys expectations and parted with his hard earned cash( as have countless contributors to the vulcan project) to see this great aircraft flying.I myself was disappointed with this situation, but being 47 years of age i can recall great memories of the v bombers flying at displays when i was a boy.I would only ask that the vulcan team try to insure against a repetition of last weekends situation at waddington and let the youngsters today share the same thrill of seeing this great aircraft fly, like us lucky old fogeys have done in years past.
Posted by andrew shaw | July 6, 2009, 8:18 pmSome very good comments been made does anyone know the email address for the Waddington airshow display office?
think its vital to express all our views for next year!
thanks
Posted by neil senior | July 7, 2009, 4:15 pmHopefully they are reading this blog.
Whether they are paying attention is anyone’s guess.
I couldn’t get to Cosford or Biggin Hill this year but – in addition to an actual flying Vulcan, the selection of aircraft was so much better…..
Classic jets like the Sabre and Sea Vixen etc although I will concede that even there, modern fast jets were absent.
I have a horrible feeling that the kind of airshows I used to go to are a thing of the past save for specials like RIAT.
Posted by Tony Greenfield | July 7, 2009, 11:00 pmYes your right airshows as they were are just that! a thing of the past remember Mildenhall in early 90′s for example never get shows like that!
Lets just hope the Waddington team does take note of peoples comments and airforces around the world and prepared to send there aircraft next year.
Posted by neil senior | July 8, 2009, 4:39 pmCheck RIATS website carefuly, they are listing a massive turnout of jets but it appears to be the same situation as Waddington as most of them are just static displays. I really miss Mildenhall we used to go every year without fail and I think it was the best attended and organised air show bar none, not even RIAT came close. Every one write to Barak Obama and get him to sort something for next year……
Posted by Matt | July 9, 2009, 8:05 pmGot to agree on a lot of points there, the flying display quantity was very lacking. the quality of the actual flyingthough was excellent. the display teams were far too numerous, and the red arrows made them all redundant anyway. The lack of fast jets that were on the advertising was very annoying as was the lack of Sally B and the constelation. The vulcan not flying relly took the buiscuit as it was the main reason I went!!! The amount of people who walked when that was announced said it all. I did enjoy the battle of Britain memorial flight and the Typhoon was excellent and really nice to see a Challenger there.
overall C- needs more effort Waddington!
Posted by Andrew Styles | July 7, 2009, 8:13 pmRandom photo wanderers were really annoying too!! I’m sure it must be an illness as people could see you lining a shot up and then just walked past anyway!
Posted by Andrew Styles | July 7, 2009, 8:18 pmAndrew Freeman it was not my intention to be offensive or rude to you, I was just explaining why I couldn’t clearly understand what you were getting at in your post with my limited eye sight, I appolgise if I caused you offence.
That fact that 558 did not do her 1st test flight until 18th October 2007 means she missed that airshow season completely. The advertising of her appearance at any airshows was nothing to do with 558 operators.
Posted by Rosie | July 8, 2009, 9:00 amThis was my first experience of an airshow and will probably be my last,even though I really enjoyed it.If I hadn’t already booked and paid for,I’d have gone home.3 hours queueing on the A15 was disgusting and disgracefull.It would have been nice to have seen the red arrows full display,rather than catching glimpses through the trees.The poor organisation ruined,what would otherwise have been a great day.Has anybody else tried entertaining an 8 year old in a car for 3 hours????
Posted by Dean | July 10, 2009, 8:03 amTo Dean,
I’m not sure what time you got stuck in traffic, but we got onto the airfield in plenty of time for the first display item and we only left North Yorkshire at 0730. The traffic was pretty well managed so far as I could see, although a few years ago at Fairford it was a different story as less than two miles from the airfield at 0800 (after a four hour drive) we were diverted up another road to an “alternative car park” as the Police referred to it and didn’t get in for another three hours.
Posted by marcus | July 16, 2009, 12:17 amStop your moaning people!! The people at RAF Waddington work hard to get us the entertainment we want. Sure,the lack of fast jets was disappointing but lets be realistic. You have the choice whether to go or not, no one makes you! The next time you spit your dummies out remember there are members of the Armed Services coming back from Afghanistan who will never get these luxuries ever again. Theres a lot more important things going on in this world than whether you got your monies worth. I’ll be there next year for certain. Thanks RAF Waddo for doing your best yet again. At least a few of us appreciated your efforts!!
Posted by Leighton | July 10, 2009, 10:21 amLeighton I totally agree with you – Well Done to all those who achieved what they did in very difficult times – I for one will be there again next year
Posted by Rosie | July 15, 2009, 12:58 pmThanks Rosie. I wondered If id gone a bit too far when i posted the message, but I just cannot beleive some people! I live 4 miles from Waddo,but ive done my fair share of travelling to airshows. My advice to people is set off earlier. too many people tried to get there at peak times. Hey,at least if all the whingers dont come next year we’ll have great views of the flying Rosie!!haha
Posted by Leighton | July 21, 2009, 5:24 pmMy thoughts and prayers go out to John Fairey’s family and friends as I have just heard of his tragic lost after departing Waddington.
Surprised no tribute has been posted on the front page?
Posted by Steve | July 17, 2009, 9:27 amPlease confirm the actual FLYING HOURS FOR BOTH DAYS. I need to plan my journeys from, and back to, North Yorkshire by car.
Posted by DAVID JOHNS | April 12, 2010, 9:45 amThe plan is to start the flying display at 10 o’clock on both days and this will last until approximately 5 o’clock. We are still building the flying programme and although it is virtually full, if something of great interest comes along we will squeeze it in and probably extend the finishing time.
Posted by rafwaddingtonairshow | April 13, 2010, 7:48 amWell i slated you early on this year over last years show which to be honest was poor, but i take my hat off to you this year for what was possibly one of the best airshows i’ve seen.
.
Well done its great to see RAF Waddington at its very best
Posted by karl | August 16, 2010, 8:59 pm