Blue skies and glorious sunshine set off a magnificent line up for International Air Day at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton.
Temperatures soared as RNAS Yeovilton, spiritual home to the Fleet Air Arm, welcomed over 30K spectators on board at the Royal Navy’s Premier Air Day, an annual banquet of aviation.
Spectators saw aircraft of all ages take to the skies for spectacular and exhilarating air displays.
The show started at 1100 with Royal Naval Aircraft; the Sea Fury and two Wildcats HMA2 the Royal Navy’s newest Aircraft and the Sea King Mk7 final display bowing out of service to be replaced by Crowsnest variant of the Merlin Mk2.
Rich Goodwin’s Pitts Special tumbling through the sky didn’t disappoint the expectant crowd.
Commodore Nick Tindal, the Commanding Officer of RNAS Yeovilton, was delighted with the day and said: "This is a fantastic day for the air station and its 4,500 people, military and civilian.
Thousands of visitors have come here to see an exciting day of flying in perfect conditions and they have not been disappointed.
“It is the one chance in the year for the aircrew and support staffs here at RNAS Yeovilton to explain what they do and how they support our Fleet Air Arm helicopter squadrons worldwide.
“A tremendous day and we have the perfect weather for a superb and diverse flying display program from here and 14 other nations for the crowds to enjoy.
“We are extremely proud of our International Air Day and looking around everyone is having a great time!"
The world class Red Arrows led the Royal Air Force’s centenary involvement at this year’s Air Day and displayed alongside Royal Navy aircraft, Jordanian Falcons, Swordfish W5856, and many more part of 21 flying displays to WOW the crowds!
The many ground displays and attractions including a STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Maths) centre, HMS Heron Field Gun demonstrations; the Commando Helicopter Force Forward Operating Base, Military Wives Choir, HMS Herons Volunteer Band visited by thousands!
With a wealth of Statics past, present and future there was plenty to satisfy all ages and interests and thousands of aviation enthusiasts.
Yeovilton 2018 saw the Commando Helicopter Force back with its explosive role demo finale that did not disappoint the perfect way to close RNAS Yeoviltons International Air Day 2018…with a BANG!
Plenty of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ could be heard across the Air Station throughout the day as well as chatter inside and outside of hangars as the public were treated to a feast on the ground and in the air.
This included the mighty roars of thousands gathered around a big screen under the air displays as England football team won their way to the world cup semi-finals, Result!
What a perfect way to end RNAS Yeoviltons International Air Day 2018 everyone’s a winner!
As crowds milled towards the exits, there were lots of happy smiling sun kissed faces, winding their way home following yet again a brilliant show from the Royal Navy and Friends.
Thank you for coming see you next year #Yeovilton19…
