FODSA Photographic Competition 2012. ____________________________________ Winners of the 2011 competition where 'Humour' was the theme. Keith, Sean, Clive and Maurice at the presentation. A special thanks to Sean Bennet from 'Vulcantotheskyclub' and FODSA member for judging our competition and presenting winning cheques.
The competition runs from January 1st to October 31st 2012 and the theme is Transport.
Any form of transport can be photographed and submitted. From Rickshaw to Juggernaut, Raft to Ocean Liner, Hot Air Balloon to Jumbo Jet, and Skateboard to Motor Cycle anything goes. (Transport v. take or carry a person(s), goods, troops, baggage, etc, from one place to another).
Two photographs per entry no bigger than 7 x 5; please submit in a sealed envelope marked with your name to the vice chairman. Judging will take place in November by guest person. First prize £25 – Second £15 – Third £10. Good Luck. 
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New Airport Director attends FODSA Meeting.
The new Airport Director – Mr Steve Gill – was guest speaker at the FODSA meeting held 2nd November, where he was welcomed by a large turn-out of members.
Steve has almost 30 years’ experience in the aviation industry and has extensive expertise in airport planning and management. Steve knows Robin Hood Airport well, having played a key role in the planning and delivery of the UK’s newest full service commercial airport in 50 years, as Doncaster Sheffield Airport was developed from the former RAF Finningley.
As Airport Director, Steve is responsible for planning, directing and managing the day to day operations of both Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield and Durham Tees Valley Airports. During his career with Peel Airports, Steve has also held responsibility for a wide range of services including IT, property management, health and safety, corporate and social responsibility along with various outsourced service contracts.
Just a few of the many members at the meeting with Steve Gill the new Airport Director.
Steve has joined Doncaster Sheffield Airport at an important time in the Airport’s development and is under no illusions over the challenging times ahead, not just for the Airport but the industry as a whole. He is however confident that the Airport can capitalise on the tremendous support that it has already developed within the region it serves and is well positioned to realise its great potential.
Members were brought up to date with all things happening at the airport, and asked questions and received information on a number of concerning issues.
These are currently some of the most difficult trading conditions the aviation industry has experienced in decades; FODSA wish to thank the Airport Director for giving members a good insight into the future of the airport.
Members know there is a dedicated team at the airport working flat-0ut to compete in the market and who are well prepared to face the challenges ahead in what is currently a difficult economic climate.
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Friends of Liverpool Airport (FOLA) visit Robin Hood Airport.
Photos by Clive Featherstone - FODSA.
On Saturday 8th October 2011, thirty members of Friends of Liverpool Airport (FOLA) paid a visit to Robin Hood Airport and to meet up with old and new acquaintances from FODSA.
FOLA & FODSA gather for a photo shoot. Wetherspoons kindly set aside an area and accomodated all.
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The visit was organized by Keith Hardwick at the FOLA camp, the Vice Chairman at FODSA, and Head of Terminal Services and Security at the airport; FODSA members, airport staff and Directions management also played a significant part in making this visit the success it was. The itinerary included tea/coffee on arrival at Heyford House, a visit to the Viewing Gallery and Vulcan shop, lunch in Wetherspoons, a coach tour of the airfield and to finish off, an excellent guided tour of the Vulcan XH558 in Directions hangar 3.
Airfield tour underway. Nearly 2 miles of Runway ahead.
The weather could have been kinder but this did not dampen enthusiasm and a great day was had by all; FOLA members commented how pleasant and helpful members of staff at the airport were.
Heading for Directions hangar 3 and the Vulcan Tour. An excellent Vulcan Tour was experienced.
For the FOLA visitors this was a most enjoyable and memorable experience made all the more interesting and pleasant by the enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism of the staff here at Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield.
Heading home after an experience never to be forgotten.
If you wish to know more about FOLA please visit their website here > http://www.fola.org.uk/
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Directions The National Aviation Academy Express Thanks.
Bev Moores - Company Secretary and General Manager - along with Lisa Webb - Operations Team Leader - both of Directions, The National Aviation Academy attended the FODSA meeting 6th October 2011.
Bev and Lisa wanted to express their heartfelt thanks to all members who volunteered their assistance at the recent RAFA (Royal Air Force Association) event, 15th September.
Bev and Lisa - fourth and fifth from left - with FODSA members.
Five hundred guests attended the event which was held in Directions Aviation Academy hangar 3; tables were laid out in a beautiful banqueting style underneath the wings of Vulcan XH558, were they enjoyed sandwiches, teas, coffee, and cake, all to the sounds of a band and the Rossington Male Voice Choir. FODSA members were on hand covering a multitude of duties which helped with the smooth running of the afternoon.
Friends of Doncaster Sheffield Airport support and promote the airport at each and every opportunity; this not only covers the airport but all the surrounding business that is associated with the airport. FODSA and Directions have a long and established friendship; Bev and Lisa wanted to let members know that their thanks and appreciation extends far beyond this one event.
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Rescue Day Committee Donation for FODSA Charity.
John Armson - North Lincolnshire & Humberside Fire and Rescue Manager - made a personal apperance to present a cheque for over £200 to Friends of Doncaster Sheffield Airport - FODSA.
John Armson (left) presenting donation to Stuart Allen - FODSA treasurer.
John is also the chairman of the 'Rescue Day' committee; Rescue Day is a yearly event which takes place at the Lakes Country Park, near Crowle, in July. The purpose of Rescue Day is to bring together as many of the rescue services as possible in one place to demonstrate ‘live’ what they do and how they do it. Raising public awareness on safety issues such as the dangers of open waters, road safety, fire prevention and general community safety issues combined with an interesting yet fun day out is the aim of this special day; and at the same time raise valuable funds for several charities.
Rescue Day also gives the emergency services the chance to show off their skills to the public in a realistic yet non critical environment.
FODSA volunteers give assistance on Rescue Day each year (please see article below of this years event) and covers many duties throughout the day; the FODSA promotional stand is also manned.
FODSA express their sincere thanks to the Rescue Day committee for their kind and generous donation which will go towards FODSA's chosen charities for this year - Help for Heroes/BLESMA.
Big thanks also to John for coming along to our meeting and presenting the donation in person; members enjoyed his presentation and insight into what Rescue Day is all about, and the role he and his Rescue Day colleagues play.
FODSA looks forward to giving their assistance at next year's event - Saturday July 14th 2012 at 7 Lakes Country Park just off junction 2 of the M180 motorway in North Lincolnshire.
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Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield Radar.
By Clive Featherstone.
With grateful thanks to DSA Air Traffic Services (ATS) for their help in the preparation of this article.
When Doncaster Airport opened for business on the 28th of April 2005 it didn’t have a radar service; and aircraft had to fly a procedural approach into the airport. This generally involves the aircraft flying over a navaid (or beacon) on or close to the airport (where the aircraft can hold if necessary), then flying away from the airport on a set track whilst descending (going 'beacon outbound'), then at some point approximately ten miles from the airport turning back towards the airport and aligned with the runway to make an approach (becoming 'inbound track established' or just 'established').
On July 4th 2005 a radar service was established via a feed from the R.A.F. Waddington radar in Lincolnshire, this greatly enhanced the safety for arriving and departing aircraft at DSA; I believe the first aircraft to use it was Thomson 737-800 G-CDZN inbound from Prague. This feed was used until our own on-site radar was commissioned.
April 18th 2006. June 14th 2006
Work commenced on our own radar site at the end of April 2006 when the concrete base was laid. Steelwork began being erected around the 14th of June and then on the 29th of June other work included the installation of a cabin below where the radar head would eventually be; this cabin houses all the technical equipment. The Radar head itself was fitted around the 5th of July 2006 and it began spinning in November. In May 2007 calibration was underway, but some software problems greatly delayed the radar coming into service, it finally came on-line during Sept 2009.
Radar at Claxby in Lincolnshire.
The radar head gives DSA controllers (who are based in the Liverpool airport A.T.C. room) a radar view extending to around 80 miles from DSA, although the normal operating setting is 40 miles.
This is primary only radar, with no capability for Secondary surveillance radar (SSR). At the moment our SSR comes from (N.A.T.S.) the National Air Traffic Service, via the radar at Claxby in Lincolnshire; which is about 10 miles south of Humberside Airport, or Clee Hill radar in Shropshire if Claxby is on maintenance etc.
On January 24th 2011 we got our own Secondary surveillance radar head, this is mounted on top of the primary radar head; this came on-line on the evening of the 27th September 2011.
June 29th 2006. July 5th 2006.
The primary radar measures only the range and bearing of an aircraft by detecting the reflected radio signals; but SSR, which also measures the range and bearing of the aircraft, relies on the aircraft being equipped with a piece of kit known as a transponder; the aircraft transponder replies to each interrogation from the SSR radar-head-signal, by transmitting its own unique response back to the radar; this response contains the 4-digit SSR code, this is called Mode “A” (but is referred to as “Squawk”); and also the aircrafts altitude called Mode “C”. The 4-digit squawk code is assigned to the flight by ATC and is entered into the transponder by the pilot.
The Doncaster Airport SSR is the improved MSSR and is Mode S capable – Mode S incorporates Mode A and Mode C information, as well as also including callsign, course, speed, and if the aircraft is fitted with enhanced Mode S the aircrafts position.
November 23rd 2006. January 24th 2011 - New SSR fitted.
Transponder Squawk codes
A “Transponder” short-for Transmitter-responder is an electronic device that produces a response when it receives a radio-frequency interrogation. In aviation, aircraft have transponders to assist in identifying them on radar and on other aircraft's collision avoidance systems (TCAS).
Air traffic control units use the term "squawk" when they are assigning an aircraft a transponder code, e.g. "Squawk 6421". Squawk or squawking thus can be said to mean "select a transponder code" or "I have selected transponder code xxxx".
Squawk codes are four-digit octal numbers; the dials on a transponder read from zero to seven inclusive. Thus the lowest possible squawk is 0000 and the highest is 7777. There are 4096 permutations of these four digit codes.
DSA Radar with SSR fitted.
The pilot of an aircraft inputs the four digit Squawk code into the aircraft transponder, which is given to him by Air Traffic Control. The transponder then responds to a secondary surveillance radar interrogation signal to show the position & other data relating to that flight
In order to avoid confusion over assigned squawk codes, A.T.C. units will typically be allocated blocks of squawk codes that do not overlap with the blocks of nearby A.T.C. units; these are then assigned at their discretion.
In order for an Air Traffic Controller to locate a particular aircraft amongst others on the radar screen, the pilot may be instructed to “squawk Ident”. All mode A, C, and S transponders include an "ident" button, When the pilot presses the Ident button it results in the aircraft's blip blossoming on the radar screen, so making it easy for the controller to pinpoint it.
Radar at Claxby.
There are other codes known as conspicuity codes which are not necessarily unique to a particular aircraft, but may have their own meaning and are used to convey information about the aircraft to ATC, Codes 2000 and 7000 are examples of conspicuity codes. There are also emergency codes that a pilot can input into the transponder to alert A.T.C. of a problem; i.e.7500: Unlawful Interference (i.e. Aircraft hijacking). 7600: Lost Communications and 7700: General Emergency.
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FODSA Fire Tender Charity Pull.
Photographs by Clive Featherstone.
Sunday 11th September saw FODSA members up bright and early for their sponsored charity pull; their mission – to pull a 32 ton Airport Fire Tender 500yds.
First test of the day though was about to unfold as everyone arrived at the airport fire station; it was all hands-on-deck as members battled with strong blustery winds whilst trying to erect the FODSA stalls. Two gazebos were finally erected and secured from which raffle tickets were sold for a large, tasty and well decorated Cupcake. There were hand made birthday cards and framed photos also on sale, with all proceeds going to charity. Free cold drinks and biscuits were also available.
Two days earlier the event nearly had to be cancelled due to the fire tender that was originally going to be pulled being diverted to Liverpool Airport. Tony Lonsdale (Chief Fire Officer) of Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport managed to grant permission to use one of the tenders on active duty. With the pull now having to take place airside you can imagine the paperwork and rearranging that had to be done. He said that there was no way he wanted to see the cancellation, as he and the fire crews supported the cause as much as FODSA did. There was a gap in aircraft movements between 11:35hrs and 12:25hrs where the appliance could be used.
Tony Lonsdale - Fire Chief, front centre, with Ben Parkinson. Photocall.
The high winds were no deterrent for the family and friends who turned out to support and cheer; along with an appearance from Ben Parkinson and the UK’s strongest man 1996, Graham Mullins, gave the 25 pullers – Team FODSA – all the more determination to complete the course.
Ben Parkinson was shown around the fire station, asking questions about the tender all the time; it is believed he was comparing it to the Green Goddesses he used to work on during his early career. He then joined in on the photocall before cheering on the pullers. Ben is an inspiration to us all.
The rope for the pull was obtained through Sgt Ian (Chewy) Bacchus (who took part in the line-up) from the Coldstream Guards by getting in touch with 219 Royal Logistics Corps, Scarborough Barracks, Balby, Doncaster.
A minutes silence took place in remembrance of the fallen.
Take the strain. In full stride.
The Team FODSA line-up consisted of FODSA members, family and friends and a little help from airport staff.
A Health and Safety briefing was conducted with all pullers and passes issued by Tony Lonsdale, before Graham Mullins gave all the pullers a warming up exercise before the pull was attempted; Graham also started the countdown, and with the firing of a Verey pistol it was ‘Go’.
Team FODSA took-up the strain after the 11:25 Ryanair departure was a good 15 minutes into its flight; with Graham Mullins giving guidance from the sideline and family and friends shouting chosen words of encouragement they soon got into a positive and well balanced stride. At this pace one thought that the 500yds would be eaten-up and it would soon be all over – not the case – at the halfway stage the strain was beginning to take its toll, the pace slowed and heavy breathing could be heard, with a few red faces appearing along the line. This caused further heckling and stronger words of encouragement from the supporters which did the trick; the finishing line was in sight and could not come quick enough for some, but come it did and what a rapturous applause awaited. It was said to be heard right across the airfield to the Terminal building!
It's over. Graham Mullins with event organiser Stuart Allen.
The event was a great success and thanks must go to the organizer Stuart Allen, FODSA treasurer, Ben Parkinson and Graham Mullins for giving up their time to be at the event, Sgt (Chewy) Bacchus for the pulling rope and of course each and every one of the pullers; but the biggest thanks must go out to Tony Lonsdale, White Watch, Sue Williams and all the Airport staff that were there on the day to assist and make it the success it was. Without their help it would not have been possible.
Raffle winner Mrs. Lonsdale right, with FODSA member Terrie Rowe.
FODSA have been raising monies in different ways all year, and with donations still coming in a final total is still not known, but it is estimated to be over £2000 which will go to the charities Help for Heroes and BLESMA (British Limbless Ex Service Mans Association). FODSA are hoping to present cheques to Ben Parkinson at the airport in front of the Vulcan, with fire tenders posed at either side at a later date.
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FODSA Events Promotional Team in Full Swing.
With August upon us and summer at its height this month sees villages and communities at their busiest holding their annual events, shows and galas; for the FODSA events promotional team this also means the busiest time of the year.
August sees them on tour and in full swing promoting FODSA, the Airport and the new arrival to the airport the Vulcan Trust.
During the early part of the year and before the events take place, the FODSA events coordinators - Paul and Jennifer Armitage along with Scott Taylor - are hard at work contacting the village organisers and booking in the FODSA stall at the appropriate events. What has to be taken in to consideration at these events is - do they allow our stall (gazebo) to be set up, is there a fee charged, do they allow us to sell items for charity, are we allowed to run a raffle, is there a main marquee we could use and what facilites will be on hand - these are just a few of the question that need to be asked. Then there is the volunteers from the FODSA group to contact and organise for the different events.
It also means an early start on the day as the stall and display takes awhile to set up.
FODSA is a voluntary, non profit making group that promotes and supports the airport and all monies raised goes to charity.
From the photos below a good idea of the FODSA stall and set-up can be seen.
Thorne Show with Maurice at the helm.
The team arrive early for the Edenthorpe Show and put the finishing touches to the display.
Jen and Scott at the Intake Gala.
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Auckley Show August 2011
FODSA member Hilda Stones manning the stall and doing a great job at that.
FODSA attended the annual Auckley Show on Saturday 13th August 2011 where the sun eventually came out to make it a most enjoyable afternoon.
The show is over three days, which encourages young and old from all cultures to become involved in the many interactive activities. Junior fishing, Auckley Show’s own Talent compitition and also a junior disco. The main event on Saturday is the Horticultural and Produce show. There are children’s sports, tug of war, ferret racing, fancy dress parade, classic cars and tractors, craft stalls, car boot, live entertainment, beer festival, duck race down the river Torne and much more.
The FODSA stall had a prime location within the main marquee, and with a large crowd in attendance there was plenty of enquiries regarding the airport and about flights and destinations from the airport, along with 'who and what are FODSA'; members on duty were kept busy almost all of the day. All in all it was a great day for everyone involved and we may even have one or two new members for our efforts!
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Mr Craig Richmond - CEO Peel Airports - attends FODSA meeting.
Photo by VCF.
Mr Craig Richmond - CEO Peel Airports - was guest speaker at the FODSA meeting held 3rd August 2011 in the Duxbury Lecture Theatre at the Airport. Accompanying Mr Richmond were Ann-Marie Pike – Head of Airfield Services Doncaster Sheffield Airport – and Kate Waiton – Group Sales Manager Peel Airports.
FODSA chairman Andrew Bosmans welcomed the guests to the meeting which was attended by over 40 members. During the course of the evening all three guests gave their own presentation with Mr Richmond taking to the floor first. He gave members an in-depth insight into Vancouver Airport Services followed by an up to date account of the position and situation of the airport as it stands at present.
Mr Craig Richmond - centre - with Kate Waiton and Ann-Marie Pike and FODSA's Andrew Bosmans and Keith Stones.
Ann-Marie followed with an account of all things happening on the airfield, including cargo matters and recent aircraft incidents.
Kate’s presentation included facts and figures on sales, Travel Agents and Airlines, including the difficulties, hard work and time consuming ongoing efforts in attracting new business to the airport.
In between presentations there was time for members to ask questions and receive information on a number of concerning issues. All in all with three excellent presentations it made it a most interesting and enjoyable evening. It is reassuring to know that there are people in place that care, and are part of a dedicated and enthusiastic team who hold the best interests at heart for the airport.
FODSA chairman thanked our guest speakers for giving up their evening to spend with us and a round of applause was heard from members; the evening then continued and it was down to any other FODSA business.
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FODSA Attend Doncaster Classic Car and Bike Show
Photos by Stuart Allen.
The Doncaster Rotary Club of St George held their annual Doncaster Classic Car and Bike Show on Sunday 24th July 2011 at the Doncaster School for the Deaf. Thankfully there was glorious sunshine throughout the day. For the second year running FODSA had a stand at the show providing information on Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield (RHADS) and FODSA and also collecting for Help for Heroes and the Vulcan to the Sky Trust. Stuart and Donna Allen, Paul and Jennifer Armitage, Scott Taylor and Steve Yardley helped man the stand.
Paul, Donna, Jennifer and Scott man the FODSA stand.
Stuart was selling framed aircraft photographs whilst Donna was selling hand made cards and jewellery with proceeds going to Help for Heroes. Additionally the stand had a fair number of aircraft videos for sale all provided by Alf Hall with proceeds again going to Help for Heroes. Information was available on the Vulcan to the Sky Trust and a collection box for donations.
Although there was a fair amount of nearby competition to the show there was a good attendance and the FODSA stand had a lot of interest shown and Stuart reported that four new members joined on the day. At approx’ 14:30hrs the Battle of Britain Flight Lancaster Bomber did a series of runs over the show – a fitting tribute to the event.
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FODSA Gives Assistance at 7 Lakes Rescue Day.
Photographs by Clive Featherstone & VCF.
FODSA were approached once again by the 7 Lakes Rescue Day committee and asked if volunteers could assist on Rescue Day July 9th 2011 at 7 Lakes Country Park, Crowle, North Lincolnshire. Members also took along their display tent to help raise funds for HELP FOR HEROES,promote FODSA and Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield.
One of the main duties on the day for FODSA members was to man one of the Paybooths; this was done with team work which allowed them to split the time on duty allowing each member plenty of time to enjoy the show.
Raising funds for HELP FOR HEROES and promoting ROBIN HOOD AIRPORT DONCASTER SHEFFIELD.
This was the fourth year the event had been held and promised to be bigger and better than ever before with more displays and exhibitors coming along to show off their skills and equipment.
Some of the Rescue vehicles on display.
Public interest in the invaluable work carried out by the emergency services has reached an all time high with several television programmes following their every move. The purpose of Rescue Day is to bring together as many of our rescue services as possible in one place to demonstrate ‘live’ what they do and how they do it. Raising public awareness on safety issues such as the dangers of open waters, road safety, fire prevention and general community safety issues combined with an interesting yet fun day out is the aim of this special day. Rescue Day also gives the emergency services the chance to show off their skills to the public in a realistic yet non critical environment.
The Red Devils Parachute Team drop in.
Rescue Day is organised jointly by Humberside Fire & Rescue Service, 7 Lakes Country Park, Humberside Police and a growing number of Emergency Service agencies. The Armed Forces are well represented together with several rescue equipment manufacturers so there was plenty of action throughout the day as the services demonstrated technique and equipment. Demonstrations included RTC extrication, water rescue, Police dogs & horses & vehicle recovery.
The action continued throughout the afternoon.
More great pics here > http://www.dsaf.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=3189&p=16103#p16103
For more information: www.rescueday.com www.7lakes.co.uk
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FODSA Lend a Helping Hand.
It was an early start for FODSA members 25th June 2011 who were up at the crack of dawn to assist passengers on their yearly pilgrimage to Lourdes; check-in opened at 06:00hrs which meant some members leaving for the airport at around 05:00hrs.
The coaches arrive. Luggage sorted.
It's off to check-in. FODSA members and airport staff with passengers await the Ambu lift.
Assistance was given to the elderly, infirm and wheelchair bound passengers to disembark from their coachs, check-in, pass through security and to board their departure flights. The trip had been organised by the Hallam diocese and their organisers appreciated and thanked FODSA for their involvment.
All 198 passengers safely onboard. Push and start commences - its off to Lourdes.
Photographes by Clive Featherstone and Maurice Long.
Watch the departure video by Martin Connolly here > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C84ejABHZHE
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FODSA Room at the Airport.
Photo by VCF.
The basis of our activities and the aim of FODSA is to promote Robin Hood Airport at each and every opportunity, through encouraging its preservation, development and improvement. We will also help to inform public opinion by providing advice and information about the airport, the airlines that use it and services available from it. These broad objectives are put into practice in a variety of ways and we aim to assist the airport to develop its potential in every way possible. For example, we assist the airport by providing additional hands for distribution of advertising material and in other promotional activity.
Throughout the summer months FODSA attends village fetes, galas, shows and events; at some of these events FODSA can set up their stand inside the events own marquees, at others FODSA can pitch their own gazebo out in the open. To attend such events, and over the years, FODSA have accumulated a large amount of equipment and material. This equipment in the past has not been stored in one place, but at various members homes which has caused problems in gathering and collecting the appropriate material for the right event; not any longer, the airport has come to the rescue.
The airport have kindly offered FODSA the use of a small room at Heyford House to store and collect their equipment and material at any time. Keith Stones, FODSA secretary, said "this will be a great help to have all our equipment in one place instead of having to run around everywhere gathering it all up; we cannot thank the airport enough for their kind offer".
FODSA members gathered along with some of the airport team for the handover of the room on Thursday 19th May; but this was not before FODSA members had been in cleaning and giving the room a lick of paint. To mark the occasion a fruit cake had been hand made and kindly donated by FODSA member Alf Hall's sister Janet.
A very big thank you goes out to Janet; the cake was absolutely delicious.
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999 Open Day at the Aeroventure, Doncaster Air Museum.
Young and old alike enjoyed a visit to AeroVenture, South Yorkshire's air museum at Doncaster Lakeside Sunday 15th May - the former site of WWII RAF Doncaster.
A 999 open day of Emergency Vehicles and related exhibits for the museum and private collections; plus demonstrations by South Yorkshire Fire Service and South Yorkshire Ambulance Service amongst others with trade stands and refreshments, with much more happening throughout the day.
FODSA secretary Keith Stones and FODSA member Steve Yardley man the stand. Members of the public enjoying the indoor displays and browsing the stalls.
FODSA members were invited to stand by the organisers and duly accepted; this year members were not only able to take along the FODSA and Airport promotional stands but also the Vulcan XH558 stand, which generated some interest. One aspect surprisingly noted from talking to the general public at this event, was how many still did not realise the Vulcan was now based at Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield; they do now.
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FODSA Receives New Promotional Stand.
Photo by VCF.
FODSA received a new promotional stand from Robin Tudor, Head of PR Peel Airports, on Friday 4th June 2010. Members gathered at the airport to receive the stand which will help with the high demand of requests FODSA has had to attend public displays, summer fetes and shows. Some of these requests have been made for the same days, so now with the additional new stand these requests can be met.
From left to right, Keith and Hilda Stones, Alf Hall, Doug Bullock, Robin Tudor, Maurice Long and Terry Seymour.
FODSA members attend displays throughout the year where they not only promote their own group but also promote the Airport by informing the public about flights and destinations from the airport, and all thats happening in and around the airport.
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An Evening with David Ashton, Head of Aircraft Maintenance Services BAE Systems.
Photo by VCF.
Mr David Ashton, Head of Aircraft Maintenance Services BAE Systems, kindly gave up his evening to be guest speaker at FODSA meeting on Wednesday 21st April 2010.
David gave a very interesting and informal presentation which covered a wide area that gave members a great insight in to BAE Systems.
BAE Systems is the premier global defence, security and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services.
Within its Military Air Solutions business, BAE Systems works alongside the RAF in ensuring the forces front line jets are available for operation. To ensure BAE Systems has the necessary level and skill of resource to deliver on these contracts, they have established an Aircraft Maintenance Academy based at Robin Hood Airport.
The Academy will train apprentices, aged 16 and upwards, to become qualified aircraft maintenance technicians. Successful graduates from the programme will get jobs on RAF bases on which BAE Systems supports the RAF.
The Academy currently has three cohorts, with a total of 48 students, in progress and over the next five years BAE Systems are aiming to train up to 500 apprentices via this academy and a parallel programme with colleges close to the RAF bases. FODSA members would like to express their thanks to David for an enjoyable and most interesting evening.
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FOLA MEMBERS VISIT DONCASTER MUSEUM & AEROVENTURE
Report by Keith Stones. Photo by VCF.
On Friday 13th November 2009 three FoLA members, Keith Hardwick, Graham Ward (FoLA Newsletter editor) and Don Wilson made a pre-arranged visit to Doncaster Museum and the Aeroventure Park on Lakeside. FODSA members who have read the two-part article on Samuel Franklin Cody in the FODSA Newsletters (issues 14 and 15) will recall that they were researched and written by Keith Hardwick.
From L to R, Don Wilson, Graham Ward, Keith Stones and Keith Hardwick.
The trio are involved in celebrating Cody’s 100th anniversary flight between Liverpool and Manchester in December 1909 and so the object of the visit was to take in the ‘Chocks Away’ exhibition at Doncaster Museum, which celebrates the first ever air display in Great Britain in October 1909, and to call at Aeroventure to see the replica of the historic ‘Bleriot’ X1 monoplane which took part in the 1909 event and, piloted by Leon Delegrange, won a prize for reaching the then incredible speed of 50mph. As always though Keith’s main interest was in Cody. Don’s interest was to photograph the various photographs, models and drawings etc of Cody’s aircraft with the purpose of creating a painting of the aircraft for the Mayor of St Helens. Whilst Graham was adding to his knowledge of aircraft history and also doing what Newsletter editors do - looking for a story?
The visit necessitated working to a very tight timetable with no allowance for a lunch break. The trio arrived at Doncaster railway station on time at 12.17pm to be met by FODSA Vice Chairman Paul Maddison and myself. Following a brisk walk to the Chequer Road Museum we arrived at the pre-arranged time of 12.30 and was met by the Assistant Curator (pre-arranged by Keith Hardwick who was hoping to borrow some of the exhibits for the Liverpool exhibition). The tour of the exhibition took up approx’ one and quarter hours. At this point Paul had to leave us. The trio thanked Paul for his time and hospitality and I then ferried them down to Aeroventure. We arrived there around 2.00pm where Andrew Bosmans FODSA Chairman joined the group.
We found the Bleriot X1 monoplane was partly covered and we were informed that the official unveiling was to take place the following morning. The event was by invitation only. (FODSA had not been invited, because no one at Aeroventure knew whom we were. Ian Kingsnorth Aeroventure Museum treasurer is now aware). Although partly covered, the Bleriot X1 fuselage and wings could be seen. The replica has been built by Ken Fern Aviation using original plans and traditional construction techniques and is fitted with a 1918 Gnome rotary engine and propeller. After viewing what could be seen of the replica the group had an enjoyable tour of Aeroventure.
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A Dragon Rapide Experience
Air Atlantique Classic Flight at Doncaster Sunday September 14th 2008
Flying on DH89A Dragon Rapide TX310/G-AIDL built in 1946.
My Wife Thelma and I should have flown on Saturday 13th, but when we arrived at the airport we were informed that there were no flights until the Sunday. When I got home I emailed Classic Flight telling them we were most disappointed that we had not been informed of the change to our flight. I received a reply saying how sorry they were for their oversight in not informing us. The message also said we would be reimbursed our petrol money and that I could receive something from the gifts stall that would be there.
On Sunday 14th September Thelma & I arrived at the Signature support terminal lounge for our flight, which was due to take off at 14:30. It was much better checking in here than having to go through the main terminal and all the security checks. However the flights were running about an hour late because of earlier weather problems. Will, who was in charge of the flights said we could be moved up the queue to the next departure. The aircraft was already out on a flight, so we waited outside in the sunshine and watched it as it made its landing and taxied onto stand. 
Then it was our turn, we along with six others we were ferried the short distance out to the aircraft in one of Signature Supports minibuses. After strapping ourselves into the seats we were given a short briefing on what to do in case of an emergency landing etc. We taxied out to make a departure on runway 20. As we approached the hold at alpha 7 we were held for a short time as Thomson’s 737-800 G-FDZP approached on its first visit to DSA. We then entered the runway, power on and at 14.48 we were away into a clear blue sky.
We climbed to around 1500 feet heading out towards the west, passing over the riding school at Rossington, also passing over Bessacarr, Doncaster race course and town centre, the nature reserve at Potteric Carr, Conisbrough Castle, Brodsworth Hall, Sprotborough Flash, and the new Doncaster Rovers Keep Moat stadium and Lakeside area. 
We then headed back to DSA and landed at 15.07. On taxiing back in, we noted the main ramp was busy with two Ryanair and two Thomson flights. After deplaning, Will informed us that there were spare seats on the last flight of the day and would we like to go again for free, Oh you bet we would! 
We waited around the Signature lounge and had a coffee while the penultimate flight went out. Then we were on our way again taking off at 16.20 and arriving back at 16.40. This time there were only five people on the flight. We flew roughly over the same area as before so I took a few more photos this time from a seat on the other side of the plane. On the first flight I was at the back on the port side next to the door which had a sliding window which made it better for taking photos without the window glass in the way.
After being ferried back to the Signature lounge we thanked Will and his colleagues for looking after us so well and headed off home, after what was a really memorable day out.
Clive Featherstone.
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FLYING THE FLAG FOR KEN CLARK
FODSA member and former FLY campaigner Ken Clark, wanted, above most other things, to be able to place the Yorkshire flag on the proposed Robin Hood statue at the airport. Sadly for Ken he died before that wish could be carried out. FODSA members however, vowed to carry out Ken’s wishes, and finally did so on Tuesday, 20 March 2007.
Ken lived in Worksop, Nottinghamshire and considered the airport to be a bond between the two counties of Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire. Prior to the 1970’s English county boundary changes, part of the airport was in fact, in Nottinghamshire, so a bond between the counties has existed previously. Ken’s view was that by putting the Yorkshire flag on the statue it would represent the re-uniting of the bond between the two counties. Seventeen FODSA members attended the ceremony that was with the approval of RHADS management.
Also in attendance was Alan Tolhurst, ex Commanding Officer of RAF Finningley and current Chairman of the Airport Consultative Committee, and Deborah Horner the airport management’ Communications Co-ordinator. The Yorkshire Flag was placed over the Robin Hood statue and instead of the usual one minutes silence the group decided to applaud Ken for 30 seconds. What a fitting tribute it was. Stuart Green & Alan Tolhurst said a few words about the occasion whilst two newspaper photographers and several members clicked away with cameras to catch the moment for posterity.
FODSA Members with Deborah Horner rally round the flag for Ken
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Ken at RHADS Preview Flights
26 April 2005
Ken sadly passed away on 18 April 2006. Ken was very proud to be a member of FODSA and will be missed by everyone. He was 77 years old.
The following tribute to Ken is by Stuart Green who was a friend and fellow FLY supporter.
Ken was truly one of those whose enthusiasm for life involved him in many activities. Apart from the FLY Finningley campaign, followed by FODSA membership, Ken was long involved with his local Tenants and Residents Association in Worksop, serving as chairman for several years. Additionally, he was a founder member of The Chesterfield Canal Trust, being involved for 28 years and latterly running educational and pleasure trips on the boat ‘Norwood Packet’.
Ken’s boundless enthusiasm and initiative was shown by the way he first became involved in the campaign for a commercial airport at Finningley. The Worksop contingent of FLY had left standard letters of support for completing at shops, pubs etc, when it suddenly became apparent that someone else was collecting signatures on the FLY letters in a very methodical way.
Ken was eventually tracked down to a local shopping centre where he had constructed a display stand and was busy obtaining signatures on several hundred FLY letters, which he had copied at his own expense. No matter that Ken did not know what to do with the completed letters, it was enough to be involved in a cause he believed in, and he was sure something would turn up to point him in the right direction – as it did when members of FLY found him.
Thereafter, Ken, wearing his heart on his sleeve, became an inspirational member of the airport campaign and was at the forefront of every initiative FLY attempted. He will be greatly missed and long remembered by FODSA members and all who came into contact with him.
Ken was a founder member of FODSA and was in attendance at almost every meeting. In fact he attended his last meeting on 05 April 2006 just 13 days before his death. He had been very ill since before last Christmas but would not give in. He had a determination to be present at RHAD/S when the Robin Hood statue was unveiled. He dearly wanted to have his photograph taken putting the Yorkshire flag around Robin Hood’s shoulders. Unfortunately this cannot be, however, in memory of Ken, FODSA will ensure that the flag is placed around Robin when he is eventually unveiled.
Ken’s funeral took place at Sherwood Forest Crematorium on 28 April 2006, exactly one year to the day since RHAD/S opened. Ken’s passing was mourned by his family and friends and many other people who had come into contact with him during his busy life. Among the latter group was David Ryall, RHAD/S Managing Director, seventeen members from FODSA and Stuart Green from FLY.
FODSA will never be able to replace Ken Clark and he will be sorely missed by all of those who knew him. Unlike so many people Ken just didn’t think about doing it, he got on and did it.
Happy days for Ken in Tenerife 
Maurice, Stuart & Ken on call
