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The next FODSA meeting - 15th February, 19:30hrs.
New members most welcome.
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Northern Lights Flight from Robin Hood Airport.
Since 1997 Omega Holidays, based at White Cross, Lancaster, have flown special flights for budding Astronomers, Stargazers and keen members of the general public. Whilst people on the ground have to wait for a clear night, the flights get above the obscuring effects of our weather and give many people unforgettable and clear views of the Northern Lights - Aurora Borealis ; the exception of course was one weekend in mid January when a spectacular showing occurred, due to an unusual sun burst, that could be seen from the ground as far south as North Yorkshire.
The Northern Lights. The area reached by the flight.
Passengers at Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield were hoping to catch a glimpse of this spectacular and rare outburst when they took to the skies on the evening of January 24th 2012; but before boarding they were given and enjoyed a rather splendid presentation by the organizers.
Passengers gather for the presentation. The presentation not only covers the Northern Lights.
Paul Money, Sky at Night magazine reviews editor, writer, publisher and lecturer, along with Pete Lawrence world renowned astrophotographer and Jayne Eames freelance astronomer, were on hand to present the show and give a pre-flight lecture. Areas covered included - what can be seen in the night sky for the flight, a presentation explaining what an Aurora is, it's relationship to the Sun and how it is produced, and an estimate of the prospects for the flight and what could be expected.
The Organisers and Astronomers. The coach arrives at the aircraft bringing passengers from the Terminal.
Once airborne, and naturally as one side of the plane will see the Aurora the other side will be facing away, so during the main part of the flight the Astronomers take it in turns to describe over the intercom what each side of the plane can see at that time. Thus whilst one side is enjoying the Northern Lights the other is given a guided tour of the main highlights of the constellations visible. This also includes the occasional bright planet as well, such as Saturn and Jupiter or Venus. This means that the view is normally towards the North and South whilst viewing the aurora but then on the return leg of the journey the focus switches to what can be seen in the West and East.
Passengers boarding Flybe Embraer 190 G-FBEN. Almost ready for take-off.
As a general guide the flights usually last for 3 hours which includes the journey up and back and approximately 20 to 30 minutes viewing the Northern Lights depending on how far north you have had to travel to see the display.
Fodsa photographer Clive Featherstone took shots as Fodsa members were their to assist passengers checking-in and through to departure lounge. The aircraft used was Flybe Embraer 190 G-FBEN.
More photos at Finningley Gallery - follow the link from 'Gallery' above.
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FODSA Christmas Party 2011.
Christmas came early for FODSA members when they were given the opportunity to hold their xmas party under the wings of the last remaining flying Vulcan (XH558) in the world, in hangar 3 Directions National Aviation Academy, Robin Hood Airport. Not wanting to miss this unique and privileged opportunity, FODSA graciously accepted the offer and attended with a full turnout on the evening of Wednesday 7th December.
Arriving at 19:00 for a 19:30 start and after signing in at reception, members and guests made their way down into the hangar to find elegantly laid out tables with a decorative festive theme; along with a fully decorated xmas tree and with Christmas carols playing in the background to set the scene. A fine buffet was enjoyed by all, which was followed with mince pies and chocolate Yule Log to finish off.
During the evening members of the Vulcan to the Sky team were on hand to assist with any question raised about the Vulcan and very kindly opened up and manned the Vulcan shop.
A raffle was held raising £143 for charity followed by a quiz; eight teams were formed with the winning team collecting £30. The evening was then rounded off with a sing-along to the tunes of some of the old war time favourites.
Scott your Christmas cake was delicious; not bad for a first attempt!
It was a great evening enjoyed by all, which was made all the more special by the dedication of Bev, Lisa and team at Directions and Toni and her colleagues from the Vulcan to the Sky team.
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Securitas Training Facilities Visit.
A most interesting and enjoyable evening was had by FODSA members on 27th July when they visited the Securitas Training Facilities at Robin Hood Airport.
Sue Williams, Regional Aviation Trainer, so kindly gave up her evening to welcome members and give what was an excellent insight, in to the role of security and security training at the airport.
The evening started with a tea and coffee introduction then members were given a little ‘guess the object’ quiz that Sue had set up to test their knowledge of banned materials being carried by aircraft passengers.
Members get to grips with the quiz.
Also on show for members to browse were an array of weapons, missiles, objects and substances banned from being carried on any aircraft. What was even more alarming was the fact that some of the items had only recently been confiscated from passengers flying out from Robin Hood Airport.
Members inspecting objects and items.
Safety is and will always be the most important aspect of aviation; the mere fact that these objects and items have been detected by staff shows Sue and her security team are doing their job, and doing it well. We can rest assured that when we fly from Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield there are dedicated, experienced and professional staff to look after us.
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FODSA visit the Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Service and Air Traffic Control. Photos by VCF.
A tour of the Airport Fire Station and Air Traffic Control Tower was organised for new FODSA members on 17th October 2010.
It was a bright, clear and crisp morning when members gathered for what turned out to be an informative, interesting, well organised and rather enjoyable morning. This of course was all down to the knowledge and professionalism of the staff who had taken time out to ensure they were all made most welcome.
Rescue and Firefighting Officer Paul Andrews with new FODSA members and guests. Paul explaining some of the equipment carried on the vehicle.
Members were greeted at the Fire Station by Leading Rescue and Firefighting Service Officer Paul Andrews. They were first escorted to the lecture room and after signing in and being given a Health and Safety brief, Paul gave an insight in to the role, duties and tasks of the Rescue and Fire Fighting Service.
After a question and answer session, in which Paul answered all with a full explanation, the group were given a guided tour of the Fire Station and garage with all its equipment. Paul explained all about the equipment carried on the vehicles and his knowledge and experience was first class, which helped make the visit most worth while.
Paul continues the tour. FODSA members pose for a photograph.
The group were left in no doubt should any incident ever occur, there were highly trained and dedicated professionals on hand to deal with it.
After a round of applause for Paul for a great tour the group moved down to the ATC Tower.
At ATC they were met by Air Traffic Control officer Mark; the group was split with half going up to the control room and half being taken on a tour of the engineers room.
ATC officer Mark explaining policies and procedures. ATC officer controlling the departure of wizzair.
Mark explained the policies and procedures of ATC and the procedures for aircraft manoeuvring the apron, taxiways and arriving and departing the airport.
Luck had it whilst there, they were able to witness and gain first hand experience of the arrival procedures for several aircraft, including Thomson, Wizzair and Flybe.
Mark’s colleagues, on duty at the time of the visit, were most helpful and supplied information to the group in-between quiet spells of duties. The group witnessed cool, calm professionals at work.
All in all it had turned out to be a fantastic visit and a great BIG THANKS from FODSA goes out to all staff at the Rescue and Firefighting Service and ATC who looked after them and made them most welcome.
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FODSA visit REDLINE National Aviation Security Training Centre. Photos by VCF.
On Thursday evening 24th March 2010 FODSA members visited the REDLINE National Aviation Security Training Centre based at Robin Hood Airport. Members were given a conducted tour of the company by Helen Gripton, Business Development Manager.
Through Helen’s expertise, knowledge and professionalism members gained an insight into how RedLine operates and at the same time enjoyed an informal and very interesting evening. 
Helen Gripton, Business Development Manager, with FODSA members. FODSA members checking security procedures.
RedLine Aviation Security Ltd established the NSTC (National Security Training Centre) on the Aviation Business Park and specialises in aviation security training for airport staff and the wider commercial aviation sector, particularly operating crew through security and threat awareness training.
The NSTC is the only one of 2 actual centres in the world, the other based in the US. The company also conduct auditing and health monitoring. RedLine offer aviation security training and support solutions to the UK and Overseas aviation organisations. www.trustredline.co.uk
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FODSA visit Airport Fire Training Ground> http://www.fodsa.fotopic.net Watch the video> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SP1WYwbddGE
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FODSA visit to BAA London Stansted Airport 7th August 2009
By Andy Thompson:
In recent weeks, our chairman, Andrew Bosmans, has been in contact with various parties at Stansted Airport, with a view to sharing information and experience gained by us during the 'FLY' campaign. For those who are unaware, British Airports Authority owned Stansted are currently in the midst of consultations for an expansion programme, aimed at raising their annual passenger throughput from the current 21 million passengers per annum, to an anticipated 35 million ppa. These proposals are being fought by local pressure groups, national environmental campaigners, and other interested parties. Stansted also has the added complication that at present that BAA have been ordered by the Monopolies Commission to sell 2 of their 3 South East airports (the other 2 being Gatwick and Heathrow), and that Stansted is probably likely to undergo a change of ownership some time during the expansion process.
It was felt by Stansted that our previous experience, gained in the fight to establish RAF Finningley as Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport, could be useful to them in their efforts to successfully gain approval for their proposals. With this in mind, Andrew had arranged a 'meeting of minds' with the communications staff at Stansted, to share with them our experience of fighting a campaign in support of an airport. However, the meeting of a few minds eventually turned into a full FODSA outing, attended by 25 members and friends!
Consequently, our Sandall Travel coach picked us up outside Dave & Doreen’s on Old Bawtry Road on Fri 7th August, for a 7.00 am departure. Our meeting time at Stansted was set for 10.15 am, and after a short comfort stop at Cambridge services, we duly arrived at Stansted, to be met by the sight of a UPS 767 parked at the freight terminal adjacent to the main passenger apron.
We were then greeted by our host for the morning, Ashley Riley, who is Head of Communications for the airport. Ashley led us into Enterprise House, an office suite adjacent to the passenger terminal, which appears to be the nerve centre for airport and airline operations for the airport. A meeting room on the 3rd floor was set aside for our slide presentation, and once we were all comfortably seated, the meeting began.
Ashley outlined the history of the airport, the subsequent developments, and the new 'G2' proposals, which, similar to the RHADS masterplan, are intended to outline the airport expansion plans up to 2030 and beyond. I will not delve too deeply into the proposals, as they are fully available elsewhere, ( try http://www.stanstedairport.com/future ) but the main one is the provision of a second runway, situated to the North East of the existing runway, and parallel to it. Questions were then asked and answered by both parties, and we were able to outline how we conducted the FLY campaign.
Our hosts then provided us with tea, coffee, and a buffet lunch, before we were treated to an airfield tour. Our host for the tour were to be Graham Wade, Head of Airport Communications, and Duncan Smith, who is part of Graham's staff, but has 3 years of airfield operations under his belt. Duncan’s in depth knowledge of the airfield and operations were to prove invaluable during the airside tour. As we were to be going airside, the security level was high, and we all had to provide Passports for ID, additional to filling in airport security passes. After this was done, we went downstairs, and out to airside via the staff security exit. Checks here were exactly as if we were passing through airport security to take a flight, with all belts, shoes, mobile phones, bags etc being put into a tray to be passed through the x-ray scanner, while we passed through the body scanner. We then had a very thorough frisking from the security staff, further outlining the need for good security at all points of airport operations, including the staff areas. It was interesting to note that all flight crew, who were also using this security gate, were subject to exactly the same checks as we were, (and suffered the same delays!).
After passing through security, Graham and Duncan ushered us to an airport coach, which had been arranged to take us on our airside tour. We started off by taking a look at the rapid transit system, used to ferry passengers from the main airport terminal to one of three remote terminals. The system comprises 2 or 3 car driverless light rail units which collect passengers from the main terminal building, then run along surface and sub-surface rails to deliver the passengers to the correct satellite terminal for their departing flights. The three satellites are used for domestic traffic, international traffic, and one satellite that is dedicated for Ryanair flights.
Our coach then proceeded on a tour around all three satellites, with frequent pauses to allow taxiing aircraft to pass, and for aircraft to be pushed back from the gates. We had the opportunity for some excellent photographs from the bus before we moved on to the next stage of the tour, the airport fire station.
We alighted from the bus at the fire station, to be greeted by Station Manager Keith Howard. We then split into two groups for a short tour of the fire station facilities. The Rescue & Fire Fighting Facility at Stansted normally operates at Category 7, with three appliances on call, however, should aircraft size dictate an increase in the required level support, then the category can be raised to 9, which means that up to 6 appliances are available. In comparison with DSA's R&FF capability, Stansted's facility is approximately twice the size of Robin Hoods.
While at the Fire Station, we were again able to get some great shots of aircraft taxiing to and from the end of the runway in use, runway 22. A steady stream of aircraft were observed arriving and departing, mainly Ryanair 737-800's, but some EasyJet A 319's and other airlines, too numerous to mention!
After the fire station, we then boarded the bus again for a run round to the North side of the airfield, via the internal service road. This took us past the newly built Ryanair maintenance facility, which has capacity for up to 5 737's on maintenance at any one time.
The North side of the airfield was where the original terminal building was located, but it is now used for a variety of corporate operations, and is also the base for Titan Airways, the ad-hoc and Charter carrier. This operator is well known for leasing aircraft to other operators to cover seasonal shortages in capacity and also to fill in at short notice for aircraft that have been grounded due to technical problems. Unfortunately, none of the Titan 757's was in residence, but their maintenance hangar had a couple of Bae 146 aircraft inside. The largest corporate aircraft in residence at this side of the airfield was a Boeing 747-400 with a Middle-Eastern registration number. Also evident was the ORBIS DC10, a flying eye hospital. There is also an old Lockheed Tristar parked up, which is used to train ground handling crews in the delicate art of tug driving.
Our bus then returned us to Enterprise House, where we had a short question and answer session, where ideas were exchanged between Graham and ourselves.
After a most enjoyable day, we then bade goodbye to our hosts, and returned tour Sandall Travel coach for our journey home.
I am sure I speak for all FODSA members present on the day when I say that the hospitality extended to us by everybody at Stansted was excellent, and that the events arranged for us were very much appreciated. I hope that in return, Ashley, Graham and the rest of the Airport staff were able to gain some useful information from us to enable them to present a greater positive impression of the airport to their neighbours in the surrounding towns.
Our thanks go to Ashley Riley, Graham Wade and Duncan Smith at Stansted, and also to Dave Cooper, Andrew Bosmans and Paul Madison for organising this excellent day out.
Andy Thompson.
FODSA mention on BAA London Stansted Airport website. click link below:
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CHAIR’S COMMENTS ON THE VISIT TO STANSTED:
The more well-informed amongst you will have realised that for some time now, London Stansted Airport has been pressing for increased capacity and especially a new second runway.
This is, of course, easier said than done and because of its situation and demography, there have been numerous vociferous opponents to this scheme.
About two months ago, it occurred to me that we may be able to offer our expertise as a support group and key stakeholder in our own Robin Hood Airport, to the management of Stansted, especially since a few of our members; myself included; fought a courageous, and ultimately successful campaign for our airport in the guise of FLY – Finningley Locals Say Yes.
This included being a key appellant at the Public Inquiry.
It was a tentative approach by me at first, which suggested that I meet with some of the airport management at Stansted and discuss how we could help, and specifically to share the process of “Best Practice”
They were surprised and delighted to discover a support group for an airport as all they had previously encountered was apprehension and downright hostility, and to my delight, invited FODSA down to their patch for a full day of discussions, lunch and a tour of the airport.
We therefore decided to make a day of it for our members as well and 25 of us were thrilled to be given the opportunity to be the guests of the Stansted Marketing Team for the day on Friday 7th August.
Many ideas were forthcoming and both sides agreed that the day was useful and constructive time well invested. A prolonged tour airside and lunch was a welcome bonus, but I do feel that this relationship will be a long and satisfying one for both sides.
As Chair, I am already planning further discussions with the personnel at Stansted and also the possibility of a future visit to us to see just how well we do it!
Working alongside my colleagues at FODSA, and previously with FLY, for ten years or so now, I have campaigned tirelessly for the future prosperity of the airport and it has been my pleasure to give something back to the aviation sector and specifically Stansted to assist them in their future expansion – long may the relationship continue.
Andrew Bosmans
Chair – FODSA & member of the Robin Hood Airport Consultative Committee
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FODSA Visit to BAA London Stansted Airport 7th August 2009.
By Donna Allen.
Photographs by Stuart Allen.
It had been heavy rain throughout the night, and large pools of water covered the roads into Finningley. With a low cloud base, the early Thomson flight took off and quickly vanished as the first of the FODSA members arrived for the coach.
Once the coach turned up all the boys and girls climbed onboard, within minutes we set off on our way to London Stansted Airport (7.30am). The journey was good and very light hearted, with silly jokes being told at the front of the bus, others chatting away looking forward to seeing the Airport. A 20min stop off at the services, and our arrival at Stansted was right on time 10.30.
FODSA members take their seat in the conference room. Andrew Bosmans, Duncan Smith, Graeme Wade and Keith Stones.
We were met by Ashley Ridley, Head of Communications. After greeting everyone he escorted us to a conference room, where we had coffee and everyone’s airside pass issued, been strictly checked against their passport.
Ashley gave a presentation about the airport from 1942-2008, highlighting how they intend to move forward in years to come and what they are doing for the environment. The airport is doing quite well even in this time of recession with 3 new routes and passenger numbers. During the last winter months they had found it very expensive to keep the runway clear of ice, as the surface area of the airport is larger than Heathrow.
Reflection from Foyer area.
FODSA members gave Ashley and other members of staff ideas on how to get people who are interested in the airport, to get together and gain more support.
After a nice lunch kindly provided by the airport we were escorted by Graeme Wade and Duncan Smith down to the foyer area for a photo call, and from here down to the security area to go airside. Here we went through a tight security check, shoe’s off, belts off (lucky no trousers fell down) cameras and other metal articles placed in a tray the through a scanner. One by one we went though the usual security frame to be met on the other side by a male and female officer who conducted a body search for concealed weapons. Some of the members quite enjoyed this, with arms raised Sarah tried to get the male officer to check her, but he declined.
Once everyone was ready we went to meet the coach (which must have had problems getting through his security check, as he was late) all aboard and off on the airside tour. Duncan Smith gave a full explanation about the terminal and satellites, cargo, refuelling and apron protocols. Our youngest member (Jack) enjoying the opportunity to photograph every possible aircraft which we passed going from one side of the bus to the other. (Making Sarah move seats each time)
Aegean Airline Worldwide Services 'UPS' Germanwings Airline
Our next stop off was at the Fire Station. We split into two groups and went inside to find they have 6 tenders and 17 firemen to a watch. Our fire officer opened the outer doors which over look the taxi way and runway. Once again a young man (Jack) found it more interesting watching the aircraft on the taxi way tootling passed at close quarters. This was also a great opportunity for everyone to take photos, and very well received by all, as cameras were quickly clicking away. Sorry! Time to go now, all aboard the coach. Hold on!! Someone’s missing!! ALF (thought it was quiet) On our way back we passed by Ryanair’s purpose built hangar where they can service 5 – 737’s inside at the same time. Also Harrods Aviation, Titan Airways hangar and In-flight Services regional.
Easyjet Cyprus Turkish Harrods Aviation Hangar
Once back in the conference room we had a short chat and a vote of thanks to the Airport management for the visit, then down to meet up with our coach.
We had one last photo call outside the centre, then off back to Doncaster. Half hours stop at the services for food and water, then on our travels back to Finningley. The weather had been very kind and some tired little men (who thought that it had been a long day) got a few ZZ’s on the last leg of our journey home. All back safe and sound by 8.00pm.
Titan Hangar.
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FODSA Visit New Business Jet Maintenance Centre. Photos by VCF.
On Tuesday 11th August 2009 FODSA members were treated to a tour of the new Business Jet Maintenance Centre and were most honoured to have the Chief Executive Officer for Directions, Mr Richard Smith, conducting the tour.
Our thanks go to Mr Smith and all his staff at Directions for taking time out from their busy schedule to give us such an interesting and informative tour. The new Business Jet Maintenance Centre is to be opened shortly (now open) at Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield and on first looks one cannot fail to be impressed.
Directions Finningley Aviation Academy has maintained, renovated and developed the airports hangar No2 to incorporate a ‘state of the art’ dedicated paint shop facility along with aircraft engineering and jet refurbishment facilities. There is also a main reception area which incorporates a client viewing area, numerous offices, meeting rooms, one of which will be capable of 4D Virtual Reality, and chang ing rooms all equipped to a very high specification.
Mr Richard Smith Chief Executive with FODSA members.
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FODSA TRIP TO LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT
By Doreen Cooper.
Photographs courtesy of Clive Featherstone.
On Sunday 5th April 2009 we set off at eight o’clock on the dot, all 30 of us, in a new roomy Sandall Travel coach, driven by an immaculately dressed driver, John Brown. 
Our journey took 2½ hours and on arrival we picked up Barry Ralfs of FOLA who was patiently waiting at a pre-arranged destination. He directed our coach a few miles further on to Keenair Flying School.
Martin Keen the owner, established Keenair 40yrs ago, moved to the present premises 8yrs ago. A Tiger Moth aircraft is used for pleasure trips during the summer months, but at the moment is undergoing a service and wing repair. Hopefully all will be in order to commence these trips in May. All Martin’s training Cessna aircraft are painted blue and white as he is a ‘keen’ Everton FC supporter.
Group photo inside Keenair hanger
From here we witnessed several aircraft arrivals and departures, including a Buluga paying a visit to BA Systems to collect aircraft parts for the larger aircraft of Europe. There were plenty of Ryanair, Easy Jet and Scotair to be seen, but not a Thomson in sight.
After 1½ hours we were ready for our lunch and a ‘cuppa’. Once fed and watered, 16 members, along with Barry Ralfs and two of his colleagues from FOLA, boarded the coach for a visit to Air Traffic Control.
The group were split, with half going up into Control Tower, whilst the others paid a visit to the lower Tower deck until it was time to change over.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport Control Tower Inside ATC (RHADS controler)
The rest of the gang watched aircraft arrivals and departures from the comfort of the Terminal building. In the far distance the Welsh mountains could be seen bathed in sunshine, whilst the River Mersey ambled along just beyond the main runway.
Once the party had re-gathered, we all piled back onto the coach and headed for the Jetstream Club.
The club was formed in 2002 with the intent to renovate and save the fourth prototype Jetstream 41. BEA donated the aircraft in 2003 courtesy of the RAF. The club is sited at the rear of the Marriott Hotel, which was originally the Terminal building of the earlier Airport. The old ATC still stands above the hotel and the hotel is shaped like the props of an aircraft radiating from the tower.
A Bristol Britannia G-ANCF was awaiting some TLC on re-furbishment. However, the Jetstream was in excellent condition and a credit to the club.
Old Liverpool Airport Britannia under restoration
Tucked away at the rear was a small propeller aircraft the only one in the UK to be registered G-SEXY.
The simulator, which everyone would have loved to have a try, was unfortunately out of action.
Everyone returned to the coach tired but very happy with their day.
We all thanked Barry Ralfs for giving up his Sunday and all the work and planning he put into our visit. David Cooper – FODSA social secretary – rang Barry the next day with his personal thanks; and feels sure a letter will be sent by our Chair from all 30 members expressing our thanks.
Old Liverpool Airport detail on downpipe
Also, thanks to David from all members attending, for your time and hard work behind the scenes in organising such a successful and enjoyable trip.
Yet again, David chose a sunny day to put the ‘shine’ on our outing.
Well done David.
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Down Memory Lane.
When FODSA met with Prince Andrew at the Official Opening of Robin Hood Airport.
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