GA Aviation Aerobatic Team, the team were formed mid-August 2011 and have already got a large number of manoeuvres that the team can do. The Team made up of only 3 people and two aircraft practise regularly and this is their first display. They are looking to expand the team outwards allowing for new people to join the team, if you are interested in the team and want to be part of it add Penguin_butler on skype and let him know your interested, a small team meeting will take place then you will find out your roll and what they want you to do. The brand new aircraft is the Aviat Pitts S-1 by addictive sim that’s costs around £20 acts and looks like the real thing. The pedigree of this amazing aircraft was first invented by Curits Pitts in 1944, the original design of the aircraft was so well thought of and has only resulted in minor adjustments to the airframe through the years. This aircraft is as popular today within aerobatic teams across the world back in the 1940’s as it is today. The Pitts won over most aerobatic teams in the 1960’s and 70’s when it won most aerobatic competions putting hundreds of awards to its name. Many people make these aircraft from kits as they are so enjoyable to see from nothing to something in a matters of weeks.
The Team behind the magic
Ben Butler (GA1), Lead Pilot since the beginning handles all turning points of the display and commands, this high stress job is handled well by Ben. His real life flying had seen him go up into his home in a grob tutor 115 and in a grob vigilant 109. He has many flying hours on sim and has his virtual Solo, PPL and IR ratings. His high trust levels in his wingman, Alex Thacker, makes him a very good Lead Pilot. Ben is the one that came up with the airshow so please show him a lot of respect and he may do it all again sometime soon!
Alex Thacker (GA2), wingman since the beginning, his high payload of visuals make him aware of most things that occur. Look out of his dome shaped canopy is vital as he most keep visuals on Lead at all times to get close, the decision making in this job is frequent as he has to decide if he can get any closer to GA1 at all times. Wingman is often thought of as lower than lead pilot but the team have assured that both jobs are as hard as each other. Alex also has flying time with the cadets and has the same flying qualifications as Ben.
Mark Drinnan (GA3), as narrator for the display it is his job more than anyone out of the teams that the audience enjoys the display. Mark is a highly skilled and motivated pilot as well, but unfortunately is not flying in the display at the moment due to the small team numbers. The Narrator needs to know the display just as much as the pilots as he must prepare the audience for what is coming up next, Mark listens to the airband radio through his portable and often plays it down the event microphone for the audience to listen to what is happening in the air. Mark is also in the cadets and flys regularly through them. Mark hopes you enjoy the FSX Blackpool Airshow 2011.