Aero Legends look forward to flying customers in a BAC Strikemaster
Considering the bleak outlook for operating classic jets in the UK in recent times, it's refreshing to share some positive news as UK flight experience and warbird operator Aero Legends is among those delighted to learn that passenger flights in ex-military jet aircraft have been given the green light by the Civil Aviation Authority. This follows an extensive industry consultation to revise the framework last year.
Aero Legends has operated flights in Spitfires under this framework for many years, and now the latest approvals permit passenger flights in ex-military jet aircraft. The company has confirmed that its fighter jet experiences will begin in April from its base at North Weald.
In a statement, Aero Legends said: “We are privileged to be the first operator providing experiences under the revised SSAC framework. Members of the public can now experience outstanding and significant ex-military jet aircraft. In late 2022, we opened the calendar for passenger flights in the iconic BAC Strikemaster. We are now looking forward to flying those who have already secured their flying date. Those who are ready to be a fighter pilot for the day but haven't yet booked, can now do so with confidence.”
Strikemaster fighter jet experiences are available to book now, from £2250 and Aero Legends will be operating these flying experiences from its historic and newly refurbished facility, ‘The Squadron’ at North Weald Airfield.
North Weald Airfield was an important fighter station during the First and Second World War, specifically the Battle of Britain when it was known as RAF North Weald. Established in the summer of 1916 by the Royal Flying Corps, during the interwar period, the RAF built large hangars and accommodation for the RAF personnel and North Weald Airfield played an important part in the air defence strategy for the United Kingdom.
Customers for these new flight experiences will be in fantastic hands as with Aero Legends, they will be flying with the elite. Their pilots are some of the very best in the world having flown with the Red Arrows, as RAF fast jet pilots and Military instructors.
Jet Legends is led by Sean Chiddention MBE, a previous member of the Red Arrows, Jaguar Pilot and Officer Commanding Central Flying School Examining Wing. In the Red Arrows Sean flew as numbers 2, 7 and 6, completing final year as Leader of the Synchro Pair and flew a total of 343 public displays.
Joining Sean is Charlie Brown, a familiar face from Aero Legends. As well as some 2000 hours in Spitfires, Charlie brings with him extensive Jet, Instructional and passenger flying experience amassed from 39 years with the Royal Air Force.
