The 1st October saw the latest edition of the bi-annually Nightshoots hosted at RAF Northolt. The weather gods had been good with a day of sunshine and clear skies going into the evening. Something you can’t always rely on being in Britain and hitting the start of the Autumn season.
The aim of the Nightshoots is to generate money for the restoration of the remaining Second World War buildings and hangars on the airfield, as Northolt was a significant airfield during the Battle of Britain. Not only was it the first airfield to operate the Hawker Hurricane, but it is also a major home for the No. 303 Polish Fighter Squadron, which hwas the highest scoring Hurricane squadron during the Battle of Britain.
Additionally, the generated money now also supports projects for the Northolt personel, including help with mental health, sport and home support. Something the Station and the Station Commander are very proud and thankful of.
The lineup was set to be a cracker, including a good turnout from the RAF and the Royal Navy with a couple of Chinooks, a Phenom and a potentially (Dummy) Martlet armed Wildcat from 815 NAS. Sadly, along with the Irish Air Corps C295, these all cancelled due to operational requirements. Such is the nature of the beast for military aviation photography.
Nonetheless, the other participants pulled together strong with a number of engine runs across the evening to get some full disk action.
The Royal Canadian Air Force and French Air and Space Force were the military operators for the evening. The Canadians bring their CC-130J Hercules, normally based out of Preswick. After an evening on being on show, they departed just after 9pm.
The French brought an incredible rare Jodel D140R Glider Tug on quite the exhibition for the evening. Not normally leaving it’s home base in Pontiers, it was a very welcomed participant for the evening.
Carrying on the French theme was a privately owned Max Holste MH.1521 Broussard which after some gentle persusaion did finally get running showing off it;s stunning Black and yellow spinner.
The on base London Air Ambulances oftened frequent the lineup, although always ready for their next emergency call, they do add a lovely splash of colour along the the line, and it’s not infrequent to see one land before proceedings.
An 80% Size composite Spitfire replica also attending the evening, in disguise a photo reconnaissance model, with a twin prop, it must be a nice way to pick up potential dates saying you fly a Spitfire without the massive price tag.
The final two attendees included a rather random but comedic Cessna Cherokee in a PAN American livery.
Followed rightfully by the de Havilland Chipmunk WP803 celebrating 80 years of its type.
Always disappointing to get cancellations, but that is part and parcel of aviation photography. As always it was well organised with plwnty of friendly faces around to talk to. I look forward to Nightshoot 36 in March.