The 2014 HAA symposium enjoyed record ticket sales, and an impressive line up of speakers, which many attendees judged to be the best yet.
In this centenary year, the events of the Great War were recalled firstly by Stephen Slater, with his presentation on the first overseas deployment of British military aircraft, and his attempt to recreate the historic event by flying a replica BE2 across the Channel, 100 years to the day.
Russell Savory described the fascinating discovery and revival of Stow Maries airfield, perhaps the last undeveloped aerodrome from WW1, and now a flourishing site enjoyed by historians , flyers and numerous community groups.
The Fiftieth Year of display flying by the Red Arrows was marked with a very special presentation by Dr Emma Egging on the Jon Egging Trust. She described the work of the trust and how it is helping disadvantaged children to get more out of their lives and pursue their dreams.
Before breaking for lunch, delegates saw the presentation of the Darrol Stinton memorial trophy, this year awarded to Desmond Penrose (see News item) and then retired to the Halton room, for a very well received hot meal, thanks to Lifestyle Catering
Test pilot ‘Dodge’ Bailey presented a compelling description of the challenges involved in the operation of 100 year old aircraft, and the flying characteristics which differ so markedly from modern machines. He outlined the rapid progress of the pioneering fighters, such that as early as the SE5a, it flew much as a contemporary light aircraft. Going slightly off topic, he was persuaded to describe the recent return to airworthiness of the Comet racer.
The final address was by Paul Beaver who described the development of the glider as a military resource between 1939 and 1945. The account was brought to life by the vivid recollections of glider veteran Peter Clarke , who flew a Horsa into the battle of Arnhem.
HAA President Air Commodore Rick Peacock-Edwards brought events to a conclusion, and reminded delegates of the on-going efforts of the association in supporting and promoting the operation of historic aircraft . This years symposium was once again nearly a sell-out, despite the addition of extra capacity,and sets the bar even higher for 2015!