Operator of vintage aircraft experiences Aero Legends have announced their expansion to Compton Abbas airfield in Dorset where, alongside offering historical experience flights, they also intend to operate a flying training school.
Compton Abbas airfield was sold by the Hughes family on 7 October 2022 to Ashcombe Estates LLP, owned and operated by film director Guy Ritchie. In a letter dated 6 October, Mr Ritchie noted that although Ashcombe Estates intend to maintain flying training, they cannot manage the flying school themselves. “We would like to discuss with those currently involved in the school ways that we could enable flying training activities to continue,” noted the letter.
In late December, having “identified Aero Legends as having the required experience, expertise and track record to deliver exceptional flying training to the highest levels of safety and standards,” Ashcombe Estates signed an agreement with the organisation “which will allow them to operate a flying training school and historical experience flights… after 1 February 2023.”
Aero Legends began operating from Headcorn aerodrome in 2014, expanding into North Weald in 2019. Alongside operating flying training, their third UK base – described as “a convenient new location for customers based in the South West” – will also offer “the broad range of premium vintage flying experiences” (including Spitfire flights) available at their Kent and Essex venues. “Further details of Aero Legends’ operation will be circulated in the New Year,” explained Mr Ritchie.
Meanwhile, Compton Abbas airfield will be undergoing a four week period of renovations from 1 February 2023, coinciding with the change of ownership, during which the café and members’ area will be closed. Although resident aircraft will still be able to fly, the airfield will be closed to visitors.
More information about Aero Legends can be found here.
Compton Abbas, copyright Clive Perrin.
