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Smiling Wings Day, Barton Aerodrome, Manchester, 6th & 13th September 2008
Airport tour saves the day at Barton
Aviation Without Borders (AWB) hosted its final 'Introduction to Aviation Day' of the summer at Barton Aerodrome, situated just to the west of Manchester, on 6th and 13th September. The day is named, for obvious reasons, Smiling Wings day, and was supported by EADS, the Lancashire Aero Club and Barton Aerodrome Heritage Society.Smiling Wings days introduce disadvantaged or disabled youngsters to general aviation and our guests on both days were children from Barnardos and The Grange Respite Centre accompanied by siblings, parents, and carers.
Our guests were welcomed to Barton Aerodrome in the Visitor's Centre and John Coxon, chairman of the Barton Aerodrome Heritage Society, gave a talk on the history of Barton Aerodrome. A tour of the museum and airport then followed with visits to the helicopter ramp, the hanger, where aircraft were inspected, the fire and rescue service and finally the tower. After lunch the flying programme was to begin but, unfortunately, it was not to be.
The weather had been bad the previous few days with heavy rain and, although the afternoon turned out to be partly cloudy and pleasant, the runway was waterlogged resulting in the airport remaining closed to light aircraft traffic for the day. Helicopters, however, were able to fly and after some enquiries, Steve, a helicopter pilot, volunteered to come in at short notice to fly the kids.
The first guest with parent went off on their helicopter trip at about 2 pm but, just as quickly as hopes of flying everyone were raised, they were just as quickly dashed. At the first changeover,with rotor running, a mechanism in the passenger door failed when attempting to open it, and the remaining flights had to be cancelled. It was a disappointing moment for all.
Flying the children on another day, possibly the following Saturday, was quickly discussed and the offer helped raise spirits. In spite of the lack of flying, however, all the children enjoyed the visit owing to the support and kindness of the pilots of the Lancashire Aero Club (LAC) and Steve, the helicopter pilot.
The excellent airport tour by John, however, saved the day. Saturday 13th turned out fine and the kids waiting their turn flew from the now operational runway with the LAC. After a week's wait they were finally able to take to the air and there were many smiles.
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