The Vulcan Is Back In Flight

7 June 2011, 10:13 | Updated: 7 June 2011, 10:39

The Avro Vulcan display plane will be back at the Bournemouth Air Festival this year to wow crowds with its size and noise.

It is set to amaze the crowds with its distinctive roar on Sunday 21st August, and if a sponsor is found, for Saturday as well.

The Avro Vulcan XH558 returned to flight on 18th October 2007 following a £10 million restoration programme; including £2.7 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, and over £1million in direct sponsorship. The rest has come from public donations from more than 40,000 people worldwide, making XH558 truly 'the people's aircraft'.

Dr Robert Pleming, CEO Vulcan to the Sky Trust said:

"We are absolutely delighted to be returning this summer. Bournemouth is a highlight for us all and to be able to release the Vulcan effect again this year is something we are all looking forward to."

The plane performed a record-breaking three times at the 2009 Air Festival and once during last year's event.

Jon Weaver, Air Festival Director commented:

"Securing the Vulcan is a great achievement for the town and the Festival; we are delighted to have this fantastic aircraft in the display line-up again this year.

"The Vulcan is always popular with festival-goers, so Sunday's display will be much anticipated."

With one display confirmed, help is needed to secure the aircraft for a second day. Festival organisers are urging local businesses, individuals and companies to support of the event and donate £200 (+ VAT) to become an official Patron.

Jon Weaver added,

"We known how much the crowds enjoy watching the Vulcan and to secure a second display from this historic aircraft would be fantastic, but we can only do this with the support of the Patrons Scheme"

For more information, visit www.bournemouthair.co.uk