For the second year in a row, 4Aviation organised a bus trip to the Flying Legends air show at the airport of Duxford in the United Kingdom. RAF Duxford became know because of her very important role during the Battle of Britain during the Second World War. After its closure as an operational base, it was handed over to the Imperial War Museum (IWM). Besides an excellent museum, there was also room for dozens of ‘warbirds’ that are being restored here and can be viewed on a daily basis. During the Flying Legends numerous extra ‘warbirds’ visit, that give a spectacular non-stop flying display in the afternoon.
The first group of participants was present at De Meern well in time on Friday 8 July 2011. They boarded the brand new double-decker bus there. Also those that boarded at the other pick-up locations in the Netherlands and Belgium were there in time, and the complete group of 72 was therefore able to board the ferry at Calais according to the schedule. An extra stop was made between Dover and Duxford, since the ride was going very smooth. A small breakfast was enjoyed there by many.
Just after 7 o’clock we entered the parking lot of the IWM. It was then time for the bus driver to enjoy his well-deserved resting period. Just like last year, the gates opened earlier than advertised. The group was walking along the flight line and in the hangars before 7.30 o’clock already. The enthusiasts now took up their favourite spot along the runway, enjoyed the museum or had a closer look at the various restoration projects.
At 1 o’clock in the afternoon the actual air show started. Different groups of aircraft took to the air theme wise, a group of Spitfires followed by German fighter, US Navy fighters, USAAF Mustangs and lots more. All made spectacular passed so all could enjoy the enjoyable sounds and timeless shapes. At the end of the show, all aircraft, about 30 in total, took off once more. This was during the so-called Balbo, passing by in big formation. Before and after the air show it was possible to enjoy a ride yourself. For this purpose a Tiger Moth, Dominie and Harvard were available.
At 7 o’clock in the afternoon the bus started its journey home. This also went as smooth as it should be. In the early morning of Sunday 10 July all were brought back to their pick-up location. From there they travelled home, took some rest after this long trip and enjoyed the experience.
