Royal Air Force Cosford Air Show

Set to take place on 1 June 2008, the Royal Air Force Cosford Air Show gives aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to see a variety of aircraft, ranging from current RAF combat aircraft through to the airplanes that flew in combat in World War II. This premier annual event, which draws crowds from far and wide, is held in Cosford, Shropshire in the Midlands, northwest of Wolverhampton.

Set to take place on 1 June 2008, the Royal Air Force Cosford Air Show gives aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to see a variety of aircraft, ranging from current RAF combat aircraft through to the airplanes that flew in combat in World War II. This premier annual event, which draws crowds from far and wide, is held in Cosford, Shropshire in the Midlands, northwest of Wolverhampton.

The world-renowned RAF aerobatics team, the Red Arrows, will be a highlight of the show. Known as ambassadors for the Royal Air Force, as well as for the United Kingdom, the Red Arrows have completed more than 4,000 displays in 52 countries since being formed in 1965. The aerobatic skill of the Red Arrows is legendary and never fails to captivate the crowds. The Red Arrows can attribute their success, not only to the nine highly trained pilots, but also to the team of dedicated and professional personnel who each play a vital role behind the scenes. In addition to acting as ambassadors for their country, many of the members of the 100-strong Red Arrows team have served in Afghanistan and Iraq and continue to serve an active role in the Defense Force of the United Kingdom.

In 1957 a collection of airworthy historic aircraft was put together to commemorate The Battle of Britain, which is widely considered to be the Royal Air Force’s major battle of honor. Known as the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, this flying display of historic airplanes has broadened out in scope since its beginning and now commemorates the RAF’s extensive involvement in the campaigns of World War II. In view of how far aeronautical technology has advance in a fairly short space of time, this trip into the past never fails to impress upon spectators just how brave and self-sacrificing the World War II pilots were. The display includes a Lancaster, a Dakota, two Hurricanes, five Spitfires and two Chipmunks.

Spectators can also look forward to a display of the impressive capabilities of the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft by the RAF Typhoon Display Team, as well as highly skilled freefall and canopy maneuvers by the renowned RAF Falcons parachute team. Exhibitors will include representatives of the Defense College of Aeronautical Engineering, and visitors will gain insight into what goes on behind the scenes in preparing pilots and ground crew for their essential roles in the Royal Air Force. Examples of training equipment will be on display and visitors will have the opportunity to get some hands-on experience with the help of the experts.

With plenty of aerobatic displays, military demonstrations, entertainment, exhibits, food, craft market stalls, children’s activities and much more, the Royal Air Force Cosford Air Show promises to have something for each member of the family. So be sure to make a note in your diary to reserve 1 June 2008 for the RAF Cosford Air Show.