The event which has become a firm favourite in the Cornish Event Calendar, enables the general public to experience the sights, sounds and smells of one of Europe’s largest helicopter bases. It’s the only day of the year when the public can ‘experience the world of Culdrose’ and see what happens behind the security gates.

The Commanding Officer of Culdrose, Captain Philip Thicknesse said: “This year should be a really special event and the great news is that we have been given the go ahead to hold the event for at least the next three years. Often our Airday is the only chance that non-military personnel can come inside the gates of Culdrose and see what a Naval Air Base is really like. The public will be able to meet those who have served on frontline Squadrons, supporting the Royal Navy all over the world.“

The organisers of this year’s event are already working hard to make it a day to remember. The team has also been working to reduce the traffic problems which some visitors experienced last year. Although Devon and Cornwall Police will be leading on the management of traffic, Culdrose has been developing ideas including; increasing the number of traffic lanes outside the base, opening more gates, creating more car parks, extending the day to reduce the number of cars on the roads at any one time and having cheaper ticket prices for those who walk or cycle to the event.

Captain Thicknesse continues: “Although it is always going to be a busy day on the roads, we understand the problems that some experienced last year and have been trying to address these issues. Devon and Cornwall Police and the County Council have been very supportive and we will be working closely with them in an attempt to reduce traffic problems.”

Story Added - 11th February 2008