Babcock has been confirmed as the key sponsor of the inaugural Hampshire Air Festival, strengthening the event’s links with the UK’s aerospace, defence and emergency services sectors ahead of its debut this September.
The engineering and defence company will support the family-focused airshow at Thruxton Aerodrome on the 12th and 13th of September, bringing its extensive aviation expertise to an event designed to celebrate the past, present and future of flight.
Babcock has a significant presence across Hampshire’s aviation sector, providing pilots and engineering support to the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Although the charity has recently relocated from Thruxton to its new purpose-built base at Southampton Airport, the helicopter service will return to its former home as part of the airshow’s ground display.
The company also plays an important role in training the next generation of Royal Air Force pilots. Babcock owns, manages and maintains the fleet of Grob 115E Tutor aircraft used for RAF elementary flying training, and will support the RAF Tutor Display Team, which is scheduled to perform on both days of the festival.
Beyond its operational role, Babcock will have a strong presence throughout the weekend with interactive STEM and aviation-themed activities aimed at inspiring young people to explore careers in aerospace and engineering. Representatives from the company will also be available to discuss its work supporting the RAF, emergency services and commercial aviation customers.
Tom Morton, Managing Director for Babcock’s Aviation business, said: “The Hampshire Air Festival is an exciting addition to the region’s aviation calendar, inspiring future pilots, engineers and support crews while bringing together the local community and aviation enthusiasts. We’re proud to support the inaugural event and showcase the vital role we play in the region, from air ambulance support to flight training.”
Jonathan Moore, CEO of Montserrat Events, organisers of the Hampshire Air Festival, added: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Babcock as a key sponsor for the first Hampshire Air Festival. The event honours the past while inspiring the next generation with our ‘Age of Flight’ theme. Babcock’s aviation work and contribution to the local community makes them a perfect partner for what we’re building.”
The Hampshire Air Festival promises a packed flying programme when it debuts at Thruxton. Confirmed highlights include the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota and Spitfires, alongside a rare Polish-operated MiG-17. Saturday evening will conclude with a special aerial spectacular featuring pyro-aerobatic displays, a drone show and a fireworks finale.
Away from the flying displays, visitors can enjoy hands-on activities for children, 1940s re-enactors and military vehicles, trade stands and exhibits, as well as displays from organisations across the aviation sector.
With Babcock now confirmed as a key sponsor, the inaugural Hampshire Air Festival continues to build momentum ahead of its September launch, reinforcing its ambition to become one of the South of England’s flagship aviation events while inspiring future generations to pursue careers in aviation, engineering and aerospace.
Tickets for the Hampshire Air Festival, taking place at Thruxton Aerodrome on the 12th and 13th of September, are available via the event’s official website.