THE daredevil airmen who pilot the Eurofighter Typhoon have told of their excitement about the upcoming Bournemouth Air Festival.

Last year marked a return to the event for the iconic jet after a three-year absence, during which time it had been used in operations in the Libyan conflict.

And Flight Lieutenant Noel Rees – who is based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire – said he’s looking forward to the annual festival, now in its seventh year.

“Each year, the event is growing, and certainly the numbers last year were higher than any other event we covered in the season,” he said.

“All of the shows we attend are very important for us, but for sheer size and the number of people getting to see the display, Bournemouth is the biggest.”

He said the event, which will take place from Thursday, August 28 to Sunday, August 31, gives all participants a “real buzz”.

“The way the public reacts to us is great,” he added.

“It’s fantastic to be coming back this year.”

Download the Euriofighter's roar by right clicking 

His colleague, team manager Flight Lieutenant Andrew de Gier, said those who watch the display are always surprised by the “noise and power” of the jet, described as the world’s most advanced swing-role combat aircraft.

“It’s actually incredibly smooth to fly in,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to hopefully inspire a new generation of pilots.”

Both servicemen spoke to patrons of the air festival at a special event on Monday evening, which took place at the Chine Hotel in Boscombe Spa Road.

For more information about this year’s festival, visit bournemouthair.co.uk.

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