The Ursel Avia event is always like a home-coming
show, because we meet so many friends. The 2018 edition must have been
the hottest of them all with temperatures rising to 30°C. The theme
for this year was “aviation in movies”, and paying tribute
to the well-known Sea King helicopters from Koksijde, that will retire
soon. The line-up of aircraft was truly impressive, ranging from warbirds
to helicopters and even an Airbus A321. |
The Bronco family plane arriving on Saturday
morning was greeted by the ground crew members. The booth was set up in
front of the Bronco, and we were greeted by the many fans. Nicely placed
next to some rare warbirds, like the Spitfire, Skyraider, Pilatus P2 and
P3, Mustang, T-28 and Stinson. Some military visitors were the Belgian
Air Force Airbus A321, F-16, two RAF Tucanos and a French Navy Xingu.
One of the highlights was a visit by the newly arrived Lockheed Electra,
based in Belgium.
The Ursel Avia event had some wonderful flying acts the whole weekend.
Christian Moulec, world famous for flying his hang-glider together with
his birds was attending, but due to the wind, they were not able to fly.
The Belgian Air Force participated with the A.109, the Red Devils and
the Sea King. Many of the warbirds took to the skies above Ursel, and
off course the home team, the Victors were on center stage. |
Saturday evening was the time for a great BBQ,
which was very enjoyable with these tropical temperatures. Belgium’s
most famous marshaller ‘Boomer’ was honored with his retirement
from military service. After a flight in the P-51, he received a welcome
shower and a great evening, thank you for serving Boomer! Annie, the lady
who is retiring from the flight desk at the Vliegclub Ursel was also duly
honoured for her many years of faithful service. We had a truly great
time at Ursel, it was a very hot edition and we hope to come back for
the next edition. Many thanks to everyone at Ursel Avia for the great
hospitality and friendship!
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