Tornado hits Coventry Airport

The iconic Tornado jet is to fly into Coventry Airport on Sunday 26th September as the world of aviation rallies round in support of Britain's wounded servicemen and women. With the attendance of one of the world's most recognisable fighter-bombers now confirmed, crowds flocking to see the Tornado land on the runway are guaranteed a rare opportunity to see the last century's most iconic aircraft in one place at one time.

Also joining the versatile combat plane on the day will be the legendary Vulcan bomber and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, making Coventry Airport's Fly-in one of the few occasions where the public will be able to simultaneously see history's most significant aircraft.

"A super-sonic, low level, fighter aircraft, currently in service in Afghanistan, the Tornado is a breath taking sight to behold. It is absolutely fantastic to have both the Vulcan and the Tornado taking part. Both aircrafts, pilots and crews will be on the ground to meet the visiting public.” said Sir Peter Rigby, Chairman of Patriot Aerospace, owner of Coventry Airport.

The announcement follows news that with the online box office now open and ticket sales well underway, Coventry Airport is offering free on-site parking, a saving of £16 for a family of four, to early-bird visitors who pre-book their tickets for the fundraising event. Promising to be a fantastic day out for families, the ‘Fly In’ experience will offer the opportunity to get up close and personal with pilots, aircrew and a range of military and civilian aircraft.

"We owe all of our servicemen and women a debt of honour and gratitude. These are people who risk their lives every day on our behalf, and we believe that the least we can do is ensure that they are given the very best available care after being wounded in action," said Sir Peter Rigby, Chairman of Patriot Aerospace, owner of Coventry Airport.

"I'm delighted to say that the aviation industry is giving its full support to what looks certain to be a great day out in aid of a fantastic cause. We'll be putting on a range of entertainments and displays that offer something for everybody, so please put the date in your diary and get ready to have some fun."

The funds raised at the event will go towards improving the lives of wounded servicemen and women who are all treated at the Centre for Defence Medicine based at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. The 'Fly in' at Coventry Airport is staged in partnership with the Armed Forces, the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine, Coventry City Council, Coventry Telegraph, CV One, Loop, Classic Flight Club and Heliflight.

The Fly in takes place on Sunday 26th September 2010 at Coventry Airport. In addition to watching some of our most iconic aircraft - both Military and Civilian flying in, visitors will also be able to experience hangar-based shopping, entertainment and even participate in the whole fly in experience by taking a helicopter flight around the airport.

Advance tickets are now available to book online http://www.visitcoventry.co.uk

Pilots can pre-book their landing slots by calling the Fly-in hotline on 02476 516 464. Landing fees of £20.00 per aircraft will be donated to Help for Heroes.