RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day

Armed forces from 30 countries gathered in a display of international allies at the Royal Naval Air Station in Yeovilton to showcase military aviation from the past, present and future.  More than 50 hours of flying displays over the Somerset landscape enthralled audiences from far and wide.  Flying overhead were the newly arrived F35B Lightning jets, some of which will be flown from Bristol's affiliate aircraft carrier, HMS PRINCE OF WALES.  Also on show were the Merlin HC4 helicopters that will also fly from the aircraft carrier.  Commodore Nick Tindal ADC welcomed a range of dignitaries to the Air Day, including Mrs Peaches Golding OBE, Lord-Lieutenant for Bristol.  In addition to flying and static displays, the Band of HM Royal Marines, Plymouth performed as did the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir.  One of the youngest attending the Air Day was a three month-old peregrine falcon.  The bird is a member of the Royal Navy Bird Control, responsible for ensuring unwanted birds are scared away from the runway so that aircraft can safely land and take off.