25 Aug Red Arrows land at London Southend Airport for first time in over 30 years
London Southend Airport welcomed an array of military aircraft last weekend, including the RAF Red Arrows, Typhoon and Lancaster Bomber.
Keen aviation enthusiasts will note that this is the first time the Essex-based airport has hosted the Red Arrows in over 30 years.
A base in Southend-in-Sea worked to provide a locally positioned air space for journeys to and from both the Eastbourne and Folkestone air shows (Friday, August 19 to Sunday, August 21).
As part of the airport’s ongoing contribution to local people, London Southend opened a pop-up ‘Spotters Spot’ viewing area for unrivalled views of the apron and runway, as well as a close-up of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster Bomber.
The entrance proceeds, from which raised £500, have been donated to mental health charity South East and Central Essex Mind.
A handful of visitors also purchased exclusive apron tours, escorted by members of airport staff, in order to walk directly onto the apron and photograph the aircraft, as well as speak to members of the flight crew.
Red 4 pilot Jon Bond, 37, who was born in Epping, said it was “great to land” back in his home county.
He said: “I was born and bred in Essex. Last time I landed here I was about 18 or 19 years old with a PPL – I landed in a Cessna 152 – so it’s great to be back flying a red jet into Southend, and the reds haven’t been here in a long time.”
Glyn Jones, CEO of London Southend Airport said: “We are delighted to have been host to such incomparable military aircraft and their talented crews who delivered an incredibly unique aviation experience over the weekend.
“Being a great neighbour to our local community is important to us, as is our support of the military, so we were delighted to enable access for our local spotters and some of our closest neighbours, helping them make very special memories this weekend”.
