A flying display expert whose voice will be heard by the crowds at next month’s Haven Great Yarmouth Air Show is looking forward to commentating on the major event.
George Bacon, who has 40 years’ experience as a pilot, organiser, commentator and UK air shows champion, said the event on June 16 and 17 was set to be a major regional event attracting enthusiasts and families seeking a fun day out.
“The great thing about seaside air shows is that members of the family interested in aircraft can watch the displays and others can go off and enjoy the local attractions or shopping,” said Mr Bacon.
Crowds visiting the Haven Great Yarmouth Air Show will hear him describe the aerial action over the PA, giving an insight into what it is like from a pilot’s perspective through his personal experience.
“People see a plane turning inside out and think ‘wow’, but don’t realise how uncomfortable it can be for the pilot whose eyes are popping out of his head,” he said.
“I try to stay away from the technicalities and deal more with the personality of the pilot, history of the aircraft and what is going in in the cockpit.”
And, as chief executive of the British Air Display Association, Mr Bacon knows the boost such events can bring to an area.
“A town hosting an air show has added prestige and everyone benefits. Shows grow in size and reputation over time, but Great Yarmouth has an impressive display line-up in its first year,” he added.
Air shows draw more than five million visitors a year, putting them in the top three UK spectator attractions alongside football and horse racing.
The Great Yarmouth event is organised by the Greater Yarmouth Tourism and Business Improvement Area, in its drive to attract more visitors and spending power.
Chairman Gareth Brown said: “Preparations are going very well, and we are pleased to hear that George shares our confidence that the event will be one of the major attractions in East Anglia.”
Organisers are encouraging visitors to book their parking now, with park and ride and premium tickets available via www.great-yarmouth.co.uk/air-show/
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