PRESS RELEASE –13.07.2017
Film Star Wins Role at Scampton Airshow
One of the best-loved warbirds on the UK airshow circuit, and a star of many films including Memphis Belle, will play a leading role in the inaugural Scampton Airshow which takes place at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire on September 9-10.
Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress Sally B, Europe’s sole airworthy example of this famous Second World War bomber, though a familiar sight in the Lincolnshire skies during the conflict, will take part in the flying programme, alongside another legendary US fighter aircraft - the P-40 Kittyhawk.
The announcement of Sally B comes as ticket sales for the Airshow, which will feature more than 100 aircraft over the weekend, continue to boom with just two months to go. Visitors will have the chance to experience a five-hour flying display, as well as a rare opportunity to visit an RAF Station steeped in history. RAF Scampton was a key base in WW1 and WW2 and home to the famous 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron, as well as playing an important role throughout the Cold War. Today, RAF Scampton is known as the home of the world-famous Red Arrows.
Sally B acts as a flying memorial to the tens of thousands of Allied airmen who lost their lives in the European theatre during World War Two, and in particular those of the US 8th and 9th Air Forces who flew from British soil, including Lincolnshire, between 1942 and 1945. It has been operated in private hands since it first arrived in the UK in 1975, a unique record for a heavy four-engined bomber. B-17 Preservation, under the leadership of Elly Sallingboe, has - with the assistance provided by the members of the Sally B Supporters’ Club - ensured that this aeroplane’s vital commemorative work goes on. Given the expense involved in keeping such an aircraft flying, this is no small task.
The legend of the B-17 in US Army Air Force service was forged in the European theatre, where the aircraft started carrying out missions during 1942. Conducting hazardous daylight bombing raids over occupied Europe, losses to enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire were heavy, even with the provision of better escort fighters and the legendarily tough airframe of the Flying Fortress, but as the Allies gained air superiority things started to improve. The B-17’s contribution to Allied success cannot be underestimated. At the Scampton Airshow, Sally B - a B-17G model, built in 1945 - will recall that, as well as the type’s use post-war in second-line roles with the newly formed US Air Force.
Paul Sall, Scampton Airshow Director, said: “We’re delighted to announce such a popular aircraft for our inaugural show - adding to the very strong line-up already announced for Scampton Airshow.
“The addition of the Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress marks an opportunity for visitors to see the last remaining airworthy B-17 in Europe from one of the most important eras in aircraft history.”
Scampton Airshow tickets can only be purchased in advance at Tickets are priced at £39 with all under 16s able to enjoy the airshow free when accompanied by an adult ticket-holder.
(ENDS)
Notes to editor
Contact info
For more information please contact:
Alison Price
01522 396100 ext 5914
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Scampton Airshow – The UK’s New International Aviation Spectacular
Come and be thrilled by a unique mix of modern military jets, historic warbirds, civilian display acts, the RAF Falcons – the UK’s premier military parachute team, all joining the world famous Red Arrows performing at their home base! The inaugural Scampton Airshow takes place on the weekend of 9-10 September 2017.
RAF Scampton aims to play host to more than 100 aircraft over the airshow weekend, both in the air and on the ground. Visitors will be immersed in a feast of aviation, meeting crews from around the world, getting up close to aircraft in the static park, as well as experiencing the amazing 5 hour flying display including the exhilarating take-off and landing!
Heritage
The Scampton Airshow gives you the rare opportunity to visit this historic RAF Station and experience its’ 100 years of aviation. From WW1 and WW2 and the famous 617 ‘Dambusters’ Squadron, through to the Cold War when Scampton was a key station for the Vulcan. You can get close to this rich aviation history by visiting the exhibits and displays in the Heritage Hangar, with a limited number of pre-booked tours for the Heritage Museum.
The heritage theme continues as the backdrop of historic RAF Scampton is perfect for the Vintage Village where you will be transported back to the 1940’s with music, entertainment, re-enactors, old military vehicles, fire engines and memorabilia; all from a bygone age.
Something for everyone
Up to the present day and the RAF Village where you can meet the serving men and women of your Royal Air Force, experience the diverse roles within the current RAFand get hands on with the equipment they use to keep aircraft flying. Over the airshow you will also be able to meet the Red Arrows pilots, engineers and some of the other 150 people who keep the Red Arrows in the air,and feelproud at their dedication and professionalism.
Fast forward to the future and the Techno Zone where a vast range of free fun STEM (science, technology,engineering and maths) activities will inspire young minds and the spark to create the next generation of aviators and astronauts could be ignited!
With all of this on offer there is a huge amount to look forward to when the kids go back to school in September! Scampton Airshow is perfect for families as admission is free to under 16s and there’s a colourful array of activities around the airfield including the largest private collection of fire engines in Europe, classic car display, fairground rides, adrenalin fuelled flight simulators, hovercraft rides and even helicopter pleasure flights.
From aviation enthusiasts to families, there is something for everyone at the inaugural Scampton Airshow!