For many years, the Royal Navy’s premier public-relations event has been the airshow at NAS Yeovilton—one of the UK’s most important aviation gatherings and a highlight of our season. Thanks to our long-standing relationship with the organisation team, the Aviation PhotoCrew was once again invited to provide all air-to-air photography. Weather wasn’t an issue this time, though the constant 30+°C temperatures brought their own challenges.
Yeovilton always guarantees variety, and 2018 delivered an exceptional mix of aircraft set against superb scenery. Jet action dominated much of the flying, with two Danish F-16s, two French Navy Rafales, two UK Typhoons and two photomissions with the striking Canadian CF-18 Demo jet. Vintage jet power also made an appearance: the Korean-era MiG-15 formed up in a unique combination with the RNHF Sea Fury, the French Navy Falcon 50 and the rare US Navy P-8 Poseidon.
The German Navy contributed a P-3 Orion, while the civilian scene was equally vibrant. Our long-time friends Rich Goodwin and Greg Paino delivered colourful Pitts displays, the Royal Jordanian Falcons flew an elegant session with their new Extra aircraft, and local favourites Lauren Richardson and Simon Wilson brought the RV-8, Piston Provost and more biplane energy. Even the Royal Navy Historic Flight joined us briefly with the beautifully restored Swordfish.
Being a major helicopter base, Yeovilton also provided outstanding rotary-wing opportunities. The Royal Navy flew a join-up with the mighty Merlin, while the French Marine Nationale sent an impressive two-ship of the NH90 and classic Lynx. The Royal Netherlands Air Force added their Cougar and NH90, and one of the highlights of the week came from the RAF Chinook, photographed in dramatic fashion during the actual Air Day overflight.
As tradition dictates, the post-airshow barbecue offered the perfect moment to organise our departure-day photoflights. Several participants enjoyed the experience so much that they returned on Sunday for one more session, joined by the Avro Anson in its smart new colours. The finale belonged to our friends from the French Navy, who put up an unforgettable three-ship of the Falcon 50 and two Rafales.
With Yeovilton preparing to rebrand from “Air Day” to “Royal Navy Air Day” the following year, the 2018 edition felt like both a celebration and a transition—an exceptional week of flying, friendships and images that captured the spirit of the Royal Navy’s flagship event.
