RAFMAA Warbirds over Buckminster (2024)

We hope that you will consider joining us for the RAF Model Aircraft Association warbirds and scale fly-in at BMFA Buckminster, 20th - 21st April 2024! 

The RAFMAA's warbirds events have always been open to everybody, not just our own members. As a result these events have traditionally attracted some of the best aero modellers in the country as well as an incredibly diverse selection of models from all eras of aviation. We very much hope this tradition will continue!

The aim is to fly a continuously from Buckminster's grass runway, which we will have exclusive access to throughout the weekend. This will be carefully controlled and managed to ensure everyone gets a fair amount of time in the air with models that are well matched in speed and size. There should also be plenty of opportunities to "chuck-up" a foamie for a bit of impromptu dogfighting or formation antics! 

As a Service Charity we are mandated to provide support to Service members with the emphasis on developing skills and recruitment. We are therefore eager for all ages and skills levels to be supported. We aim to have a few dedicated slots exclusively for junior flyers to have-a-go with a BMFA Certified instructor on hand to provide instruction if required. Ultimately, this is meant to be fun, inclusive and safe for everyone. As you all well know, we don't take ourselves too seriously and no doubt the Service banter will be on top form with members of the public able to see a glimpse "behind-the-wire" and get an idea of what a RAFMAA event is all about!

Yes, it may be a “Warbirds” event but in fact entry requirements for your models are actually quite relaxed. You will find that even the most tenuous of links to being a War plane will be perfectly acceptable....... although if you simply stick roundels on a WOT 4 you may have to prepare yourself for a bit of "friendly-fire"!

Terms and conditions;

• Attendance is free to RAFMAA members but must be pre-booked. 
• Non-members are able to attend for just £7 per day (still cheaper than a regular flying day at Buckminster).
• Tickets must be purchased in advance via the RAFMAA website. Registration closes 24 hours prior to the event.
• We are unable to take cash payments on the day so with regret, late arrivals will be turned away.
• No refunds will be offered for non-attendance due to poor weather conditions.

Flying info;

• Attendees will have sole access to the grass runway area. The Goldsmith Hangar is also available for model storage and social activities.
• Regretfully, jet powered models cannot be supported at this event.
• Operation for IC aircraft is restricted to 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday and 10:00 - 16:00 Sunday. There is no time restriction on electric powered aircraft.
• The Hard Circle control line area will be in use by another organisation and out-of-bounds to attendees.
• Attendees must have current BMFA membership, either via the RAFMAA or independently. Please don't forget to bring your membership card.
• CAA registration numbers must be clearly displayed on all models.

More information;

• This Service event holds DUTY Status and as such there is an official RAF Administrative Order for it which can be found HERE
• More information about the facilities at BMFA Buckminster can be found HERE
• Camping facilities are available on site at an additional fee of £18 per night. This must be arranged through the BMFA by emailing Manny@bmfa.org. More information and rules can be found HERE
• Dogs; BMFA Buckminster is a dog friendly site but there are some rules to be aware of HERE
• Previous RAFMAA Warbirds event reports can be found online HERE

We hope as many of you as possible will join us. Your support is appreciated.