February 2007,
Press Release
EUROPEAN AIRSHOW COUNCIL CONVENTION
Hasselt, Belgium - 15-17 February 2007
The European Airshow Council (EAC) held its 11th Annual Convention in Hasselt, Belgium, from February 15th to 17th, 2007.
A record number of more than 100 delegates from 22 countries, gathered in the Holiday Inn, Hasselt. Delegates were leading figures in the airshow industry, including airshow organisers, air arms, Civil Aviation Authorities, aerobatic teams and display pilots.
A Pre-Convention Seminar on how to perfectly plan and organise an air display event was held on the afternoon of Thursday February 15th. The seminar consisted of interactive presentations and discussions involving all delegates led by the UK Airshow Management Team of Thilthorpe-Sheeley Associates.
During the conference sessions on the 16th and 17th, delegates discussed the present and the future of the airshow scene and were given new ideas for the development of air displays. New styles of airshows were explored, including the Al Ain Aerobatic Show in Abu Dhabi in early 2007 and the Red Bull Air Races that gathered 1 million spectators in Barcelona alone during the series of races in the summer of 2006. Secrets behind the Hubert Lepka's ‘Lawine Torrèn’, ‘Hannibal’ and ‘Telung am Flus’ lights and sound events involving characters and airplanes were also revealed.
The huge military 'Aire06 ' airshow - held in Murcia, Spain in June 2006 - was also reviewed. Spanish Air Force co-ordinators of the event were awarded the annual EAC ' Paul Bowen ' Trophy for having perfectly organised what was judged to be the best airshow in 2006. Ed de Bruijn ( Head of the Air Display Office – Royal Netherlands Air Force) received the ‘Chairman’s Special Achievement Award ' for their efforts to attract and co-ordinate the successfull ' Open Daag 2006 ' - held in Leeuwarden, Netherlands in June 2006 and efforts over many years to recruit young people for their Air Force who attend the big annual airshows in their country. The challenges of hosting the US Navy’s ‘Blue Angels’ aerobatic team at the event also offered lessons to all present.
The 2006 season's safety issues were reviewed by modern jet and vintage aeroplane display pilots. Impressive presentations on display flying were given by Commandant 'Mickey Artiges', Belgian Air Force F-16 display pilot, by Ali Ozturk who is a solo aerobatic display pilot of 'Purple Violet' from Turkey and, in contrast, Mikael Carlson from Sweden explained how to correctly operate rotary powered pre-WW1 aircraft at airshows.
The European Airshow Council website members-only column ( www.european-airshow.com ) is the unique web forum where delegates can debate incidents and problems met in airshows, and promote common solutions and procedures.
If you were at the EAC 2007 Convention, you know how stimulating and useful it was for improving your airshow. If you were not there, you have missed something ! You missed a great opportunity to meet people in all aspects of airshow life in formal presentations, and also in the free, friendly, and lively discussions and the very popular social events that took place including the Airshow Dinner held at the Sanicole Aeroclub airfield on February 16th.
For further Information : www.european-airshow.com
EAC Board members include : Bob Dixon, EAC Board Executive (UK); Gilbert Buekenberghs, Sanicole International Airshow (Belgium); Jacques Bothelin, leader of the Breitling Jet Team (France); Joe Ciliberti, Malta International Airshow; Dieter Thomas, ILA Berlin (Germany); Joerg Thurnheer, Federal Officer of Civil Aviation (Switzerland) ; Ed de Bruijn, Head of RNLAF Display Office (Netherlands); and James Black, Europe Air Sports Technical Officer (UK).
For further contacts : EAC Honorary Press Officer, François Brévot at francois@european-airshow.com or EAC Board Executive, Bob Dixon, at bob@european-airshow.com
PROGRAMME FOR THE EAC CONVENTION 15-17 FEBRUARY 2007
Back to the Fundamentals of Airshow Activity – seeking safe and attractive airshows
What innovations are shaping the future of the Airshow world?
Thursday 15 February
1000 – 2000 Arrivals - registration
1400 Pre-Convention Seminar opens
“Are you properly organised? – have you got your act together?” Interactive presentations and discussions led by the UK team of Thilthorpe-Sheeley Associates: Ian Sheeley, former Air Traffic Controller and RIAT Emergency Services manager and Ray Thilthorpe, pilot and former Red Arrows manager who, together organise and provide consultation to at least 12 UK Airshows. Also joining them is Lisa Duncan, organiser of the Southend Air Show and an Event Manager.
1530 Coffee
1700` Seminar ends
1930 - 2030 Official Reception – in the foyer of the Holiday Inn.
Convention 2007
Friday 16 February
0900 Briefing on Convention Arrangements and Introduction of Delegates
Welcome from EAC Chairman, Gilbert Buekenberghs, Belgium
Opening Address – Speaker from Belgium, Mr Ivo Belet, Member of the European Parliament
1000 “The new Excitement – Red Bull Air Races”- speaker from Austria, Heinz Möller - Director Aviation, Red Bull Air Races World Series
The huge popularity of the Red Bull Air Races has seen amazing growth with hundreds of thousands of people watching the races taking place in the cities around the world. Red Bull have developed this new form of competitive flying in close consultation with local authorities and they are using the technology developed for Formula 1 Racing Cars to monitor and control the races. These new developments must have lessons for the more traditional air events.
1100 Coffee
1130 “The role of Air Traffic Control in delivering an interesting and safe flying display” - speaker from the UK, Ian Revel - Manchester International Airport Air Traffic Control and Royal International Air Tattoo Air Traffic Services
The direct involvement of Air Traffic Control is fundamental to the success and safety of an Airshow. The Controllers not only give the organiser and performer confidence that the Airshow is safe; they can also contribute to the improvement of the spectacle itself. The secret of a successful Airshow is the cooperation between the ATC, Flight Safety Committee and Display Director to combine entertainment with safe operations. A very experienced Controller with extensive Airshow experience will pass on his tips and ideas to delegates at the Convention.
1200 “Update on the big Warbird – The return of the Vulcan” –speaker from UK, Dr Robert Pleming, Director the Vulcan Operating Company – ‘Vulcan to the Sky’
The Avro Vulcan is an iconic reminder of the ‘Cold War.’ The importance of teaching the young people of today about that period is to be symbolised in the UK by the mighty Vulcan bomber aircraft. Huge efforts of fundraising and sponsorship, supported by the National Lottery, are bearing fruit and the Vulcan nears the day of its first flight.
1215 “The joys and trials of a solo Display Pilot in his travels across Europe”
-speaker from Turkey, Ali Ozturk – display Pilot of ‘Purple Violet’
Most display pilots ferry their aircraft by air out to an Airshow, perhaps followed by a ground support team deploying by road. This performer does it differently. His aircraft is disassembled and loaded into a huge articulated vehicle which then criss- crosses Europe for several months of the display season – led by his car! The trials and tribulations of getting around the airshow circuit and the build of his aerobatic aircraft at each venue provide fascinating insights to the life of a team truly ‘on the road.’
1245 Working Groups
Working Groups include one that will update on the progress of the EAC in influencing the main European Regulatory Authority, EASA, in the development of regulations and guidance for Airshows in the future. Another will examine the feasibility and practicality of producing an EAC Handbook to act as a directory of all aspects of the Airshow Industry in Europe and beyond. The Chairman will introduce the various opportunities that delegates can chose for the period of time allocated to the Working Groups.
1300 Lunch
1415 Working Groups
1530 Coffee
1600 “Thunderbirds are Go! – The participation of US Military aircraft in Europe in 2007” – speaker from the USA, Lt Colonel Mike Kilbourn, United States Air Forces Europe
This year the United States Air Force Thunderbirds Team make one of their rare visits to Europe and their activities will be described together with the implications for security of United States military aircraft displaying in Europe and the likely availability of US assets for flying displays this season.
1620 “Belgium’s military aircraft participation in the coming season” – speaker from Belgium,1stCC Alain Michiels, Belgian Air Force COMOPSAIR Airshow Support Team
Announcing the programme of events that Belgian Air Force display aircraft will support this season, the theme of military participation in Airshows, started with the previous speaker, will continue.
1630 “The future of military participation in Airshows” – speakers from France and UK, Colonel (retired) Pierre-Alain Antoine, commentator and aviation consultant and Squadron Leader Andy Pawsey, commentator and member of RAF Events Team
An Anglo-French presentation from 2 well known speakers at the EAC, who both share a strong interest in Aviation History. Jointly, they will examine the likelihood of there being less support from their Military authorities for the participation of their military aircraft in Airshows in the coming season and in future years. Announcements of cutbacks by the German and Italian Authorities and heavy commitments of American and British Squadrons on operational duties have all led to fears that the days of major military Airshows, and military aircraft support for the smaller ones, may be in decline.
1700 “Lessons learnt from the 2006 Display Season – including the Aire06 and Leeuwarden Experiences”- speakers from Spain and the Netherlands, Major Rafael Fernandez-Shaw, Assistant Director Social Relations and Communications Office Spanish Air Force and Ed de Bruijn, Head of RNLAF Air Display Office and EAC Board Member
The Murcia Airshow in May 2006 was a great success and included several unique solutions to problems by the authorities - including taking aircrew to and from the airfield and hotel by sea to avoid any possible traffic delays! The Netherlands Airshow at Leeuwarden, also free to spectators, acts as a major recruiting opportunity for the Royal Netherlands Air Force as well as an opportunity to show the public something about their Air Force. Both have lessons learnt that should be valuable experience to be shared with delegates at the Convention.
1900 Aviation Dinner at Sanicole Aero Club
Pick-up of all delegates and partners will be from Holiday Inn and delegates staying in the Holiday Inn express should assemble in the reception of the Holiday Inn just before 1900. Leaving promptly, the coaches will take everyone to the Sanicole Aero Club. The setting and style is informal but the standard of food is now famous! Please wear appropriate “Airshow Dress” i.e. Wear the clothes you would feel comfortable in at an Airshow – from Flying Suit to Polo Shirt, VIP guest in jacket and tie to Airshow logo T-Shirt!
Awards to Organiser and Performers for the best Publicity material, judged by a group of delegates, will be presented at the Dinner.
Saturday 17 February
0900 “Flying the F-16 solo display” –speaker from Belgium, Commandant ‘Mickey’ Artiges, F-16 display pilot, Belgian Air Force
Each year a current fast-jet pilot gives delegates the experiences he has had preparing, designing and performing his act and a very experienced pilot from Belgium will open the morning session of the Convention with his personal views.
0930 “The growth of new Airshows – the Al Ain Airshow” –speaker from Abu Dhabi, Colonel Mohammed Bin Barrack Al Dhaheri, General Coordinator Al Ain Airshow
On the first day of the Convention, the Red Bull competition was discussed. However, the Al Ain Aerobatic Airshow has also re-introduced a different form of competitive flying as part of their show. Solo pilots keenly compete for the special competition, newly designed for 2007, and there are other awards for teams and individual performances. The lessons learnt from the introduction of new and exciting events will be highlighted by the Organisers.
1000 “How to operate rotary powered WW1 aircraft at airshows” –speaker from Sweden, Mikael Carlson, display pilot of old warbirds and veteran aircraft and rotary engine expert
A performer who has travelled the world and flown veteran and vintage aircraft at many Airshows, from his ‘Bleriot’ to the Tummelisa, the speaker is a hugely experienced display pilot. He is also an expert on rotary engines and has managed to accumulate an unique collection from many dark corners of Europe. The problems of flying such old aircraft at Airshows are different from the modern jet aerobatic aircraft and his experiences will be shared with delegates at the Convention.
1030 Coffee
1100 “Small tales on a large scale” - New concepts of entertainment including aviation in events - speaker from Austria, Hubert Lepka, Special and spectacular Event Producer and Director
The events that have been performed in Austria in recent years - which bring together machines, aircraft, dance and theatre, all combine to provide a unique experience for the spectator. From performances of ‘Hannibal’ on a glacier to ‘Taurus Rubens’ at Salzburg Airport and ‘Teilung am Flus’ on the Danube, the mix of people, machines and theatre is unique, spectacular and exciting. The use of aircraft in daylight, at dusk and after dark all result in special effects and demand great care and planning. The choreography for all aspects to work together is breathtaking and the speaker has even more attractive ideas for the future.
1145 Keynote Speaker: “The future Challenges for Airshows and Display Flying” – speaker from UK – Sir John Allison, President of Europe Air Sports; member of EASA Advisory Board; experienced display pilot.
The keynote speaker has had a very distinguished career in the Royal Air Force, reaching the highest rank. An experienced pilot and display pilot of a wide variety of types, he is fully aware of the difficulties as well as the joys of performing at airshows. Now very influential in protecting and encouraging General Aviation flying across Europe, and with a strong interest in Air Sports, he will be giving his personal views on the challenges of flying and Airshows today and in the future.
1215 Close - EAC Chairman.
SUMMARY OF THE FIRST DAY OF THE 2007 CONVENTION
All EAC delegates and members can download each Presenhtation from the 2007 Convention in its full detail from the MEMBERS-ONLY part of the EAC Website. However, to give a flavour of the events that took place, the following summary of the first day of the Convention was made by a Belgian Member, Eric Coeckelberghs. With thanks to him for permission to publish his notes, they are shown below:
Convention Arrangements and Introduction of Delegates – Bob Dixon
Welcome from EAC Chairman, Gilbert Buekenberghs, Belgium
Opening Address – Speaker from Belgium, Mr Ivo Belet, Member of the European Parliament
In his opening speech Mr Belet highlighted the importance of the EAC for the industry and focused upon the long-lasting relationship that the region has with aviation in general and airshows in particular. In addition the EAC was welcomed as a fine example of an organisation that tries to bring improvement to a particular area of interest without willing to harmonize relevant legislation. Through a useful exchange of best practices the airshow industry benefits from EAC’s initiatives.
Various Airshows were organised in this region also due to KB, which always attracted a good crowd and were organised in conformity with relevant safety rules, therefore these airshows and the EAC are entitled to political support.
“The new Excitement – Red Bull Air Races”- speaker from Austria, Heinz Möller - Director Aviation, Red Bull Air Races World Series
Introduction
Ø personal – former military jet pilot – solo and team display – crash investigation – flight safety officer - corporate business flights – Red Bull GmbH.
Ø Project – air races (video - Barcelona)
The competition features a dynamic new discipline of flying, called ‘air racing’ where the objective is to navigate a challenging race course in the sky, in the fastest possible time. Flying individually against the clock, the pilots have to execute tight turns through a slalom course consisting of specially designed pylons.
If you pass a set of pylons incorrectly a term of imprisonment of 3 seconds will be awarded to the pilot, in case he touches a pylon a 10 seconds term of imprisonment will be awarded.
Qualifying session define the running order. There will always be an elimination race between two pilots. The one who rounds the tracks fastest goes on to the next round. Finally two pilots will make it to the final.
It is a competition between 14 pilots which are among the best pilots in low level aerobatic flying. In one season they compete against each other in 12 races in 12 different stops.
At the end of the season we will have a winner.
Is it an airshow?
To the extend that is has aerobatics, a qualified airspace as well as a crowd one could indeed say that it is an airshow.
On the other hand there is the element of competition.
In 2006 6 million spectators attended the airraces, while 1.4 million people visited the website. The Barcelona airrace attracted over 1 million spectators, which is an achievement for a sports event. In 2005 the media value of the airraces was estimated to be € 50 million. In 2006 the media value was estimated at € 230 million.
For the upcoming season there will be 12 rounds. More or less all around the world, S-America, N-America, Europe, Middle East and Australia. The following cities will host an airrace: Abu Dhabi/UAE, Rio De Janeiro/BR, Istanbul/TU, Barcelona/ESP, Budapest/HU, Porto/PO, Acapulco/MX and Perth/AUS. Locations in Switzerland, UK and USA still need to be selected. For the upcoming years 8 airraces will be fixed 4 airraces may alternate.
The Red Bull Air Race Board
The Board exists of 5 people. They
Ø decide upon new sites;
Ø organise the event;
Ø take care of safety and aviation issues;
Ø visit and check locations upfront;
Ø take care of media and communication related issues;
Ø train new pilots (2nd generation);
Ø train pilots that have the potential. These pilots may participate in the future (3rd generation).
Safety and Practicalities
Within the entire organisation safety is an important issue. A team of about 20 people will monitor various safety related issues.
The Safety tower has three rows
Ø Airshow director – from Red Bull as well as local experts;
Ø Media coverage – coordination of live TV coverage; and
Ø Coordination in terms of police, fire works and coast guard.
Whenever possible an existing airfield is used, if not available a temporary airfield will be build, including hangars. For such issues an existing road will be temporarily closed.
A support airfield is needed as an emergency airfield and to bring cargo. For that 5 Boeing 757 are being used.
Racebox
Trackplanning is done according vary strict rules keeping a close eye on safety lines for crowds. In that respect a software tool is being developed that collects telemetric data from the planes. In view of these data a race track is compiled. The track is positioned within a well defined 3-dimensional area, “the racebox”
The pilots fly the Extra 300 or the Edge 540. Currently Red Bull is developing software that streams live telemetric data from the planes to the ATC. Based upon telemetric data collected over past editions, the Edge 540 will be improved. This improvement aims at specified engines as well as improved safety features.
There are 2 holding zones for participating aircrafts. There is a particular box for media planes as well as a flying route for emergency services in case of an incident.
Race format
Though the overall planning takes a long time, the actual preparation for a race weekend takes about 8 to 10 days prior to the event.
On Friday the elimination will be held with 14 airplanes. 12 planes will pass on to the actual race which usually takes place on Saturday. In some cases there will be a race on a different day. In all cases there is a back-up day.
The group of 12 pilots will be reduced to 8 (quarter final) – 4 (semi final) – 2 (final) -1 (winner)
Starflight
In promotion of the event
Ø private people are offered the opportunity to participate in the airrace. Initially only 30 aircrafts will be allowed. In the future more planes up to 150 or 200 be allowed onto the racebox..
Ø The Red Bull Airrace pilots will also make an exhibition tour in the country;
Ø High impact media figures or VVIP’s are taken onboard for a ride for the experience. For media purposes currently 2 helicopters are in use. For the upcoming seasons 5 helis are planned.
Host nations see these airraces as a media event that can be used to promote the airforce or navy.
Red Bull wants to be competitive to the formula one races.
Budget (dependant upon the location) 40 to 60 million € a year
“Thunderbirds are Go! – The participation of US Military aircraft in Europe in 2007” – - speakers from the USA, Maj. Robert “Fletch”Fletcher, United States Air Forces Europe and Larry Schlesser, HQ Air Combat Command Aerial Events Scheduler
After a video message, the delegates were informed about the way the Thunderbirds annual schedule is selected.
Thunderbirds’ schedule is decided upon at high level. For the 2007 season 9 airshows in 9 different European countries are scheduled
Planning of the schedule starts one year ahead. USAF Public Affairs initiate the process. Through various embassies a security assessment is carried out. This will lead to an initial list. This list is issued by the USAF airshow coordinator to the USAF Director of Operations.
At this level a number of prioritized airshows are selected. The rest of the programme will be completed by the Flying Wing.
D? Do the Thunderbirds overfly the crowd?
The standard programme of the Thunderbirds include some manoeuvres which are performed over the crowd. Considering the fact that flying display safety rules differ from the US to Europe these manoeuvres may need to be assessed on a case by case basis.
“The role of Air Traffic Control in delivering an interesting and safe flying display” - speaker from the UK, Ian Revel - Manchester International Airport Air Traffic Control and Royal International Air Tattoo Air Traffic Services
The controller
Being an air traffic controller at airshows there is one predominant rule “Safety always comes first!”. In order to guarantee safety ATC works in conformity with a set of rules and procedures. They are professionals.
Airshow
Subject to the airshow and the airfield, a ATC unit will either be permanent, will be brought in or an adjacent ATC unit will be established. Please keep in mind that not all ATC-ers have experience with airshow ATC.
Being an airshow ATC you need to coordinate with various units that participate in the airshow. Obviously there will be the aircrews, engineers, ground handling, emergency units as well as local airspace users which you also come across in you daily business. Apart thereof though you will also have to cooperate with the display director, speaker and flying control committee which are airshow typical.
Planning
In order for the organisers from ATC what they want, you better get ATC involved soon in the planning. Make sure you establish lines of communication towards other stakeholders in the event. Keep them informed about changes and timing. Avoid surprises.
Through good communication you may be able to get some extras every now and than. By getting ATC involved early on they may have the freedom to shuffle the programme and end up with teaming up for some passes aircrafts that usually do not fly together.
On the day
On the day of the event ATC and display director need to be there in time. Both of them need to agree upon a set of rules and stick to these rules. To that extend it is important to appoint the person who has the last say. Good and safe controlling can safe a lot of time. Above all do not get distracted and avoid surprises.
When it all goes wrong
In case something goes wrong ATC will do their job they are trained to do. They are trained to deal with emergency issues. Trust them in doing so.
Video was shown of a C130 of which the nose wheel broke on landing, causing the runway to be blocked. Nonetheless 2000 metres of runway still available. The initially idea was to use these 2000 metres and to continue with the airdisplay. With the emergency crews at the scene though this wasn’t the most ideal situation, since aircrafts would be over flying the emergency crews.
Summary
No matter what - Safety always comes first!”
D? – How do you interrupt the display if it is perceived to be unsafe?
Ian feels that it this is part of ATC’s job. ATC takes care of communication. It is undesired that somebody else would interfere in this line. Not even flying control committee should interfere. Preferably flying control committee should instruct ATC who could then instruct the pilot accordingly. Obviously it makes sense that flying control committee and ATC talk such procedures through prior to the event.
“Update on the big Warbird – The return of the Vulcan” –speaker from UK, Dr Robert Pleming, Director the Vulcan Operating Company – ‘Vulcan to the Sky’
The Avro Vulcan was one of the last V-bombers produced in the UK. In 1992 the Vulcan displayed for the last time. The aim is to bring the Avro Vulcan XH558 back to the air in 2007. Currently the Avro Vulcan XH558 is based at Bruntingthorpe airfield in the centre of the UK
The Vulcan Operating Company team is happy to have the support of a lot of people and companies. The first testflight is scheduled for mid 2007. If everything goes well the Vulcan will be around until 2015 when the lifecycle of the engines come close to an end.
All the support is welcome. After all the project has a budget of around € 9 million to get the Vulcan to the sky. Once the aircraft is operational again, it will cost around € 1.5 million a year to remain operational.
Today already the Vulcan is used in recruiting future engineers for the airforce. The techniques used in the Vulcan are different from modern jets, nonetheless it attracts people. In bringing the Vulcan back to the sky new techniques such X-rays are being used to examine the condition of the aircraft and it parts.
Where are we?
So far planning is OK. Currently the team is well underway in the programme and on schedule. On of the milestones so far certainly was the roll out of the Vulcan in August 2006. At that moment the Vulcan has been in the hangar for 7 years from 1999 onwards.
The Vulcan Operating Company is aiming at a flying programme of 30 to 45 hours a year. For the time being only UK events are scheduled. Airshow participations outside UK are under consideration for the future. The operational costs roughly amount to 30.000 pounds an hour. Through commercial sponsorship the Vulcan Operating Company try to cut the costs down to 7000 pounds an hour for displays. Costs for airshow participation will be discussed individually
D? – It was already mentioned that the lifecycle of the engines becomes critical at a given moment– But what about the crew?
Vulcan is treated as an experimental aircraft. As a consequence of which the first test flight will be performed by a test pilot. Current pilots used to be Vulcan pilots. New pilots will be going through a special training programme.
D? Is there a simulator available? After all such simulator canal so been seen as a money generator for the project.
No. there is no real simulator as such available.
There are two other Vulcans though. These can be used to familiarise with the plane.
D? – Sponsorship – How do you attract sponsorship?
It is important to identify the things of value in the project. Once you have done so you need to bring this message to the groups of interest. To that extend you need to realise that the Vulcan is a piece of engineering excellence that inspires young engineers. As such Commercial companies may be attracted by the engineering challenges. The WOW! factor of the Vulcan is high.
“The joys and trials of a solo Display Pilot in his travels across Europe”
-speaker from Turkey, Ali Ozturk – display Pilot of ‘Purple Violet’
The Team
Ali started as a professional display pilot in 1999. Since then he performed in various countries. Over the past three years he performed in European airshows in 14 countries.
Though Ali is a solo display pilot, the project certainly is no one man show. There is a 4-man team (2 Technicians, Pilot and Wife) that supports the entire project. Because of certification issues said team is established in the USA. The team build the plan in 9 months. After 9 months the first testing took place. Once the plane passed the testing face it was exported to Turkey. The plane is designed for airshows purposes only. Since it has no navigation equipment ion board the transportation is done by truck.
Said truck is specifically designed for transportation as well as for maintenance and repair of the plane. Last year 60.000 kilometres were driven.
Transport
The fact that the aircraft is driven from one airshow to another implies that the plane could be stripped own to aerobatics. They only needed to install equipment that was needed to fly aerobatics. All other equipment and instruments could be left aside. Due to the truck transport, the team is independent of the weather conditions. Road transport doesn’t mind about weather and nights.
On the other hand transport by truck takes longer. Furthermore, the plane needs to be tested after being assembled. Only after successfully passing the testflight Ali will be able to perform.
European experience
Being around at European airshows for a while now, Ali has the following considerations:
Ø Certain rules apply to aerobatic displays. Unfortunately there are no standardized European rules. So far every country has its own regulations causing e.g. minimum heights or flightlevels etc. to be different from country to country. Within a single country civil and military regulations may also differ in details. Therefore standardisation of regulation (at least for solo-display pilots) disregard of the countries would be welcomed;
Ø In the UK a Display Authorisation Application is mandatory. This document clearly defines the do’s and don’ts. Other countries do not have such document. The introduction of a DA applications all over the EU would be welcomed;
Ø For professional solo display pilots the relation with the sponsors is important to the relationship with the organisers. In view of the sponsors interest it is very much welcomed if the plane can be parked in sight of the spectators. Furthermore a tent for a signature session with the pilot or driving the pilot around in an open car in front of the crowd (it gives the pilot a face) helps to bring the sponsors in sight of the spectators;
Ø A template contract between participants and organisers, clearly defining and containing commitments on both sides is very much welcomed;
Ø Having a minimum standard as to accommodation would also be appreciated.
Ø Ali also touched upon the briefing. He wondered whether an organiser should have a single briefing for pilots or whether multiple briefings could be considered. Multiple briefings are worth considering in order to avoid pilots to be stuck at an airfield for all day in case they only need to fly by the end of the program.
Ø Finally Ali briefly touched upon the diner after the event and a sortie the next day. Having these items well communicated and well timed is much appreciated.
D? In case we would agree upon a minimum altitude for display flying we need to consider safety issues in first instance, however we also need to look at the crowd. Flying sufficiently high is a matter of politeness towards spectators in the 20th row. Both issues need to be considered when a pan-EU minimum altitude is discussed.
Working Groups – see separate programme
“Belgium’s military aircraft participation in the coming season” – speaker from Belgium,1stCC Alain Michiels, Belgian Air Force COMOPSAIR Airshow Support Team
35 participations in EU in 2007
!st CC Alain Michiels elaborated upon BAF’s plans for the upcoming display season. This years displays would consist of the F-16 (flown by Cdt ' Mickey ' Artiges), the Alpha Jet, the A-109 as well as the Siai Marchetti. The Fouga Magister will retire in the course of 2007.
The National airshow will be held at Koksijde on June 30th and July 1st.
“The future of military participation in Airshows” – speakers from France and UK, Colonel (retired) Pierre-Alain Antoine, commentator and aviation consultant and Squadron Leader Andy Pawsey, commentator and member of RAF Events Team
RAF
In 2006 the RAF had 791 participations (full display > fly-by). By the end of the season the Red Arrows completed their 4000th public display. So the RAF do a lot of things and is involved in various operations around the globe.
Unfortunately both the Merlin as well as the C130 (Falcons) started to suffer causing some displays to be cancelled by the end of the season. But there is more. The RAF needs to do a lot with little people and less aircrafts. On top of that the costs go up.
As to the costs. They are calculated according to a particular formula. The British treasury recently assessed these costs near to the true cost and concluded that the actual costs are substantially higher.
In case of a misfortune the costs will be much higher.
As a solution to this problem an engaging strategy has been developed. This strategy looks both internally and externally. The external look mainly focuses upon the way the RAF is perceived. Part of the solution is the enhanced reputation through Air & Ground Demonstrations.
Engaging is more then meeting people.
The RAF will team up. The aim of the team is to enhance the RAF reputations and it will do this through air and ground demonstrations. This will be done by:
• Being active as opposed to reactive. Previously, if you bid for an aircraft and it was available on that day – you got it…
• Irrespective of whether this offered effective engagement. We will be much more selective and we will decide what we do and where we do it.
• Just because we have always done something in the past, doesn’t mean we will do it in the future.
• Many Organisers realised a long time ago that such an approach was needed.
• One way of achieving this is to concentrate effort - a sound military principle.
• We also are looking at new approaches and new shows.
People like to get close to aircraft.
The RAF will promote itself. RAF Flying displays will be presented in a block, the static display will also be planned more thoroughly. In addition the team will be given a face by meets and greets with the crowd for both aircrew and groundcrew.
FAF
The 1st International French Airshow took place in Reims, in August 1909. It attracted over 1 million spectators within 1 week.
After WWII the FAF agreed upon 4 National Airshows a year these airshows would present tactical displays and supersonic flights. They usually ended with a huge air parade, displaying the new technology. Today FAF provides aircraft for well over 100 events a year, 50 of which with PAF in both France and Europe. There will also be about 15 opportunities to display operational aircrafts (PAF Alphajets, EVAA Cap 232, Cartouche Doré Epsilon, Mirage 2000) in foreign airshows.
The PAF are the prima ambassadors for France and French aeronautical know-how. The PAF Undisputedly is part of the very close circle of the world’s best aerobatic teams.
As to the future we will still see the Alpha Jet and the Mirage for the years to come. As of 2008 the FAF Rafale will guarantee the continuity. The Rafale is supposed to become the flagship of many airshows.
To conclude: Tick on your agenda for 2009. During teh last August week-end in Reims there will be a remake of “La Grande Semaine de l’Aviation”.
“Lessons learnt from the 2006 Display Season – including the Aire06 and Leeuwarden Experience”- speakers from Spain and the Netherlands, Major Rafael Fernandez-Shaw, Assistant Director Social Relations and Communications Office Spanish Air Force and Ed de Bruijn, Head of RNLAF Air Display Office and EAC Board Member
Murcia
In June 2006 the Spanish Airforce organised the Murcia Airshow. With
Ø 300 pilots
Ø 14 countries
Ø 150 aircraft
Ø 1000000 spectators in two days (official records):
o static display: 400.000
o flying display: 600.000
Ø 125 VIPs
Ø 237 spotters
Ø 96 journalists
Ø € 98.362 from official merchandising
The show is considered to be a huge success. In view of the success Murcia will be the fixed location for Spans national airshows. The next edition is scheduled for 2009. Murcia was agreed upon in view of the weather, the seaside venue which is ideal for a free air show, vicinity of both the air base as well as a touristic resort. In addition Murcia is the homebase of Patrulla Aguila.
The planning of the show took about 10 months. Though the team managed to complete the job within the given timeframe, 10 months was perceived way too little.
Careful attention was given to the following items which turned out to be the keys to the success of the Murcia Airshow:
Ø Crewmanagement. Accommodation for all participants was organised at the other side of the bay. Participants were brought to the scene by boat.
Ø The website was used as a communication tool for participants;
Ø Crisis management was managed under the direction of the Airforce. Civilian and military forces closely cooperated. Several safety rehearsals were organised, which improved the cooperation between different services.
Ø Special attention was given to media and spotters. Interview sessions and press conferences were organised. And spotters were given dedicated areas in view of both static and flying displays. Saturday was a pressday. Dedicated attention to press. The investment was well received and a lot of press coverage was published.
Ø VIP management (125 VIPs).
Summary
Ø A major air show needs, at least, two years for planning.
Ø The web is an excellent tool for info exchange between organizers and players.
Ø The seaside model is the most attractive way to present an airshow.
Ø To accommodate all participants in the same hotel reduces logistics problems.
Ø If there is a way to avoid the use of roads for participants transportation, it should be taken into account.
Ø Special attentions to media and spotters produce an incredible effect in the impact of the event.
Ø Volunteers are of a capital importance for spectators management.
Ø The crisis management unit must be conducted by the organizer but all agents (civilian and military) must be involved.
Ø Vip management is essential for success.
Leeuwaarden
The Royal Dutch Airforces organised their Open Days at Leeuwaarden.
Missions of the Open Day
Ø Recruitment of new people;
Ø Show where the taxpayers’ money goes.
The show had an impressive line-up of solodisplays as well as aerobatic patrouilles from the Netehrlands and abroad.
Preparation took about 1 year.
In preparing the event special attention was given to the Blue Angels. Contrary to what we know from European teams the Blue Angels have a rather lengthy list of requirements and items which needed to be looked after.
Though this didn’t pose too much of a problem certain compromises needed to be made.
Flight safety obviously is an pivot issue when organising an airshow. Contrary to US rules it is prohibited at European airshows to overfly the crowd. The Blue Angels’ display does contain some passes which include overflying the crowd and even to do some manoeuvres over the crowd. Therefore a compromise with the Blue Angels was made.
When agreeing upon such a compromise, an organiser also needs to take into consideration other teams that fly at the airshow. As a compromise arrangements as to manoeuvres and minimum altitude were made.
During the rehearsal flight the flying control committee noted various manoeuvres which didn’t meet the compromise that was made. This caused the de-briefing to be not so nice. Nonetheless a common understanding was reached and the performances went OK.