Air shows come back to Rochester Airport for first time in over a decade
The airport say they want to bring back a passion for flying to the Medway area
Rochester Airport is set to host its first family fun day and air display in 20 years today.
The event aims to bring aviation activities back to the heart of the community, with proceeds supporting the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance Trust.
Families attending the event can look forward to an array of activities, including live aerial displays organised by Invicta Aero Club, static aircraft and car displays, and a fun fair.
There will also be an offer for experience flights on the day, giving attendees a chance to fly over Kent and Medway in Cessna 172s and Jet Ranger helicopters.
Local food vendors, live bands, and music will contribute to the celebratory atmosphere at the airport.
Ben Spiers, the recently appointed director of Rochester Airport, expressed enthusiasm about reopening the airport and engaging the local community:
"We're going to be seeing live aviation or live aerial activity through Invicta Aero Club.
"As well as live bands and music, local food vendors, a fun fair, and loads of aviation related activity, including static flight displays.
"We're also going to have a static car display on show.
"So we're really looking forward to welcoming the people of Medway to the airport to essentially open doors and get people into aviation.
The Spirit of Kent Spitfire, purchased by the Kent community during World War II, will also be displayed, symbolising the community's involvement in aviation history.
Clive Bennewith, flight display director from Invicta Aero Club, said the inclusion of the historic plane was the thing he was most excited for as part of the performance:
"As a display pilot in the pit, what will be special for me will be flying with the Spirit of Kent.
"To look out the window and see the Spirit of Kent on my wing will be absolutely magical.
"I'm born and bred in Kent and for me to be part of that is going to be absolutely fantastic."
As the airport looks to the future, there is hope to expand flight training offerings from basic pilot licences to commercial pilot licences, addressing a gap in Kent for comprehensive aviation training.