CockpitFest 2025 (25th anniversary)
Hi all, it's going to be a big one this year! see:
https://www.newarkairmuseum.org/on-the-radar/events/cockpit-fest-outdoor-aeroboot-aerojumble
Around 40 cockpits are booked in for the weekend at Newark Air Museum, more than usual!
CockpitFest really has become 'the' preserved aviation event of the year. You are up close with so many aircraft, and people who can answer most questions. The 'networking' side is fantastic, these are the people with the knowledge and experience, and are always keen to help.
Plus the aeroboot (car boot sale of aircraft parts) is always really interesting to look around and pick up some bits and pieces, usually cheaper than ebay.
I am putting on 'A Lightning Experience' in the hangar, been wiring up real equipment for the last couple of weeks... Final push to complete the display this weekend. Lots of live equipment with flashing lights, and noises... Not just 'as per' the real thing, but actually the real thing!
I know existing FGUK membrs have not attended past events due to distance, but if any of the new guys lived closer, I'd be great to say hi.
Distance is is a debatable excuse though - we have regular visitors travel from various European countries, and people come from as far as Dubai and Hawaii!
Cheers, Scott
Comments
What a weekend!
Being 25 years, there was a massive turn out, lots of really interesting kit to get up close with, good aeroboot, and some great people to meet.
Our interactive dislay, 'A Lightning Experience' won the public voted non-cockpit award!
Sadly it was announced that due to various reasons, a main one being new anti-terrorism legislation around managing public events, that this was the last CockpitFest to be hosted by Newark Air Museum. This is a mssive loss to the aircraft preservation world, as it was THE hub for exchanging knowledge, advice, manuals, parts and tools.
Good to go out on a high, but a damn shame...
Will add photos soon.
Cheers, Scott
scottbouch.com