With many of the pilots arriving over the last 24 hour, hopes were high that the weather would hold off long enough to allow them to start practising and familiarising themselves with the new Blackpool circuit created just off the North Shore.
Using Hangar 3 at Blackpool International airport as their base, the pilots only managed to do one solo flight over the competition area. A cloud base of 300ft at times has meant multi-aircraft practice has not been possible so it was decided to cancel the actual air race portion of the Aero GP on safety grounds.
Whilst this is a huge disappointment to both the competitors and the spectators alike, the safety of the pilots is paramount.
Cllr Maxine Callow, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Regeneration, said: “I know this is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of Veterans Week and I’m sure it will be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. It’s a shame that the full programme of flights are unable to go ahead but we are still putting on a world class display.”
Jeff Zaltman, managing director of Aero GP, said “It is unfortunate that the air race element had to be cancelled, but safety always comes first with Aero GP, and the city shares that philosophy. However, we still look forward to showcasing the skills of these amazing pilots to the Blackpool spectators and visitors who will witness the best aerobatics in Britain.”
However, eight of the UK's top aerobatic pilots have managed to practice and will be giving single aircraft displays in the afternoon on Saturday and Sunday.
They are:
Mark Jefferies (Extra 300)
Garry Ferriman (Extra 230)
Gerald Cooper (CAP 232)
Tom Cassells (CAP 232)
Andy Bickmore (Sukhoi 29)
Clive Butler (Pitts S1T)
Steve Carver (Extra 260)
Alan Cassidy (Pitts Model 12)