Pirouettes in the sky

The sun beat down on us today as Robin and I commentated day two at the Military Vehicles and Flying Machines Show at Damyns Hall.

Vintage aircraft flew in formation at the start of the afternoon's flying taking the crowd back to the 1930s and 40s - a nostalgic era for aviation pioneers.

My friend Dave performed graceful solo aerobatics in the Tiger Moth after leading the formation routine with Tony in the Stearman on one wing and Jeremy in the Turbulent on the other.

The combination of the 9 cylinder radial engine roaring from the Stearman, as Tony demonstrated the beautiful performance of the aircraft, made an interesting contrast to the lively and colourful cheekiness of the Turb flying low level, making dynamic turns and bringing smiles from the crowd.

The show commentary ran smoothly today not least thanks to the relaxed yet professional organisation of the display directors and the pilots sharing their routines pre-show.

This photograph was taken by my friend Helen, another aviation pal about to complete her pilot's licence. She captured me chatting to Dave about his formation routine and it makes for a great illustration of behind the scenes at a show.

A bit dusty and worn out but already planning next weekend's commentary for Combined Ops at my home aerodrome Headcorn.