AAIB report, Heathrow consultation and UK GA events
28 June 2026
A steady mid-season week for UK general aviation, with the big-ticket national item coming from the Department for Transport’s new consultation setting out the foundations for Heathrow expansion. Closer to the club scene, there’s plenty to keep an eye on: an AAIB report into the Dyn Aero MCR-01, G-TOMX, a new airfield challenge linking Thruxton, Popham and Solent, and several summer fly-ins and weekends that will matter to pilots planning ahead. As ever at this point in the season, the diary is doing a lot of the work for us — and a quick check of event status before you set off remains time well spent.
Before heading to any fly-in or airfield challenge, check the latest event page on the morning of departure and make sure fuel, parking and PPR are still as briefed. A quick radio call or message can save a wasted trip.
Manston has long been one of the most talked-about airfields in UK GA because of its huge former runway and its big place in aviation history.
In the circuit
AAIB Report: Dyn Aero MCR-01, G-TOMX
The AAIB has published its report into the fatal accident involving Dyn Aero MCR-01 G-TOMX at Shenstone Hall Airfield, Staffordshire, on 4 May 2025. The aircraft is believed to have lost power shortly after takeoff, and the pilot appears to have tried to turn back before losing control and striking the ground in a nearby cultivated field; the post-accident fire destroyed the aircraft. For club flying, the key takeaway is the familiar one: after a power loss at low height, a turnback may not be possible, and pilots should brief in advance what they will do instead, taking account of aircraft performance and the day’s conditions. The report also notes recent engine and fuel-system maintenance that had not been inspected and signed off by an LAA inspector, underlining the importance of proper oversight for work beyond pilot maintenance.
New consultation sets foundations for Heathrow expansion to take off
The Department for Transport has launched a public consultation on the framework for future planning decisions for Heathrow’s third runway, saying it is another step towards a final planning decision in 2029. The consultation, opened on 18 June 2026 and running for just over 10 weeks to 1 September 2026, invites businesses, communities and the wider aviation sector to have their say on issues including noise, air quality, climate change and economic growth. The government says an expanded Heathrow could support more than 60,000 jobs and deliver up to £42 billion in benefits to the UK, while improving connectivity, reducing delays and giving passengers more choice. It also says any scheme will have to meet key tests on climate, air quality and noise, and that the Climate Change Committee is being formally consulted on how expansion can fit the net zero framework.
Triple airfield challenge launched for Thruxton, Popham and Solent
Three Hampshire airfields are teaming up for a light-hearted “Thruxton Triple Challenge” over the August Bank Holiday weekend, 29-30 August 2026. The event covers Thruxton, Popham and Solent, and is being organised by Mike Pearson, formerly of Popham and now aviation consultant to Thruxton. Pilots who enter will pay £35, with £10 from each registration going to charity, and that fee includes landing fees at all three airfields. The weekend will mix simple flying challenges — taxiing at Thruxton, spot landing at Popham and timed arrival at Solent — with catering and camping at Thruxton and Popham, plus a prize draw for 150 litres of avgas.
Real STOL Fest cancelled but Breighton weekend goes ahead
The inaugural Real STOL Fest was cancelled just days before it was due to begin, with the organisers citing weather worries, logistical problems and last-minute organisational issues. That left a number of competitors and visitors out of pocket after already travelling or making plans for the weekend. The Real Aeroplane Club then stepped in to keep the Breighton weekend alive in revised form. The fly-in, STOL competition, camping, food, refreshments and evening entertainment are still expected to go ahead, with the club stressing safety and CAA compliance.
STOL Weekend, Breighton Airfield
Breighton Airfield’s STOL Weekend is listed for 20–21 June 2026, with PPR required and contact details provided for pilots planning to attend. FLYER notes that the Real Aeroplane Club’s weekend event will go ahead, and points readers to the separate note that Real STOL Fest itself has been cancelled. The listing is straightforward rather than expansive, but it is a useful heads-up for UK GA flyers looking for a low-key weekend outing at Breighton.
Draycot Aerodrome Fly-in, Wiltshire
Draycot Aerodrome Fly-in is listed for 19–21 June 2026 at Draycot Farm Aerodrome, GB-0006, in Draycot Foliat near Swindon. FLYER notes that PPR is not required, and gives a contact number for the event. For pilots planning a weekend visit, the listing is neatly to the point: a three-day fly-in in Wiltshire, with the event website also shown for further details.
On the calendar
27 June 2026
Headcorn International Airshow, Headcorn Aerodrome
27-28 June 2026 at Headcorn Aerodrome, the Headcorn International Airshow is Headcorn’s inaugural airshow, bringing together flying displays and static exhibits across vintage, warbird, and modern aviation. The organisers say it is designed to keep the aerodrome’s local, intimate feel while adding a fresh weekend of flying, plus a ground show with food and traders. For UK GA pilots and enthusiasts, it’s a notable chance to see a classic WW2 airfield host a broad aviation programme and HIA Green acts focused on sustainable aviation.
4 July 2026
Open Weekend & Fly-in, Cotswold Airport
On 4–5 July 2026, Cotswold Airport at Cirencester is opening its gates for its annual Open Weekend and Fly-in, with the airport welcoming aviation enthusiasts, families and visitors from across the South-West. The weekend promises close-up access to iconic aircraft including the resident Boeing 747 Negus, the Boeing 727 M-STAR, Buccaneer taxi demonstrations, and a large line-up of visiting aircraft plus family attractions, live music and airside tours. For UK GA pilots and enthusiasts, it looks like a rare chance to combine a fly-in with a big aviation showcase and a busy, visitor-friendly airfield atmosphere.
4 July 2026
Stoke Medway & Invicta Aero Club Airshow, Stoke Medway Airfield
On 2026-07-04, Stoke Medway Airfield hosts the Stoke Medway Airfield & Invicta Aero Club Airshow 2026 in Middle Stoke, Rochester. The event runs from 14:00 to 23:50 and promises flying displays, live music, summer entertainment, food, and family fun, with the page noting it’s aimed at aviation enthusiasts as well as families looking for a day out. Tickets are limited, and the organiser says more acts and the full schedule will be revealed in the weeks ahead, making it one to watch for local GA pilots and airshow fans alike.
4 July 2026
Suffolk Coastal Strut Fly-in, Monewden Airfield
On 4 July 2026, the Suffolk Coastal Strut Fly-in lands at Monewden Airfield near Woodbridge, with PPR required and a £10 landing fee that includes drinks and biscuits. The FLYER listing says Martyn Steggalls is the contact via the event website, with an extra charge for the BBQ. It looks like a neatly organised summer stop for UK GA pilots who enjoy a friendly strip visit, light refreshments, and a proper fly-in atmosphere.
10 July 2026
Fly-in, LAA Kent Strut, Manston
10–12 July 2026: the LAA Kent Strut is hosting a fly-in at Manston Airport near Ramsgate, with prior permission required. It’s a neat chance for UK GA pilots to visit a historic Kent airfield and get involved with the local LAA community.