2026 Alderney Fly-in – A big success’
“Thanks once again to you and the entire team for making us feel so welcome this weekend. We love the event, always things to do and really good to meet up with you all, and friends from across the Channel.” Emma Le Bretton – Guernsey Aero Club
Despite adverse weather conditions seriously disrupting aircraft movements in the Channel Islands on Thursday 3rd and the morning of Friday 4th September, the clouds cleared in time to allow all of the 25 aircraft scheduled to arrive on Friday to make it it to Alderney in time for pilots and passengers to meet up with old friends and acquaintances at the informal ‘Welcome Drinks’ party.
In its 33rd year, the annual Alderney Fly-in has always been a favourite destination for pilots and their passenger. This year 42 aircraft (the largest number for several years) made it to Alderney for the 2026 Fly-in. They came from the UK, France, Germany, Belgium and the Guernsey Aero Club. In total, the Fly-in attracted over one hundred visitors to the Island which, from an economic perspective, made an important contribution to the Island’s economy.
The annual Fly-in also serves to promote Alderney as a destination for General Aviation pilots despite the current lack of Avgas 100LL. Indeed, speaking to some of the Fly-in pilots, a surprising number visit Alderney on a regular basis
This year, in addition to other attractions, visiting pilots and friends were able to enjoy a delicious ‘Smash Burger’ made with local Kiln Farm beef and washed down with a real milk shake made with Alderney milk. Also on offer for the first time in a number of years was an opportunity to visit the Control Tower and chat to the controllers. Meanwhile, thanks to the Alderney Shooting Club, clay pigeon shooters were able to compete for the title of ‘Top Gun’.
However, as always, the most popular event was the Gala Dinner.
After sitting down to an excellent 3-course meal, courtesy of the Blonde Hedgehog, it was time to present trophies to a number of lucky pilots, including Richard Alberg who won the ‘Best Homebuilt’ trophy for his immaculate Eurofox (G-RBFX). This was the second year running that Richard was awarded a trophy. Last year he was awarded the trophy for the ‘Best Modern Plane’, his Cirrus SR 22 (N7RJ).
Likewise, there was a big cheer from the Headcorn table when Charlotte Dain announced that they were the largest single contingent for the second year running with five aircraft.
A full list of this year’s trophy winners can be found below.
Organised by the Alderney Shooting Club, another popular event was Clay Pigeon Shooting with Mark Saunders awarded a prize for being this year’s ‘Top Gun’.
Finally, it was time for the highlight of the evening – an opportunity to pit your flying skills against other guests attempting to fly hand thrown model aeroplanes the furthest distance.
Throwing small foam planes is not as easy as it looks as they tend to fly in every direction other than where they are supposed to go. Just a handful fly in a straight line – the winning one thrown by a non-pilot, Jeannie Cameron.
Fly-in Trophy Winners 2026
Best Vintage Plane:
Not awarded in 2026. None of the 42 aircraft participating in the 2026 Fly-in met the required year of manufacture (pre 1945).
Best Classic Plane:
G-AVGA – Piper PA24-260 Comanche – Built 1966 it was the oldest aircraft.
Pilot: Colin Docherty
Best Modern Plane:
Nominations: N101DW, G-UILT and G-CEKI
G-UILT – Cessna T303 Crusader
Pilot: Peter Bentley
Winning Home-Built:
G-RBFX – Eurofox – The only homebuilt this year.
Pilot: Richard Alberg
Best External Finish/Colour Scheme:
Nominations: G-BGVY, G-BEWX, and G-AZDJ
Winner: G-BEWX – Piper Arrow P28R
Pilot: Tim Freeman
Longest Distance Flown:
Stefan Auer
SP-AER – Cirus Vision Jet
Stefan flew from Perpignan, to Alderney – 469nm in a straight line.
The Most Senior Pilot:
Ben Ellis who was born in 1949 and so is 77 years old.
He was flying a PA28 from Perranporth
The Most Junior Pilot:
James Cole who was born in October 2004 and so is 21 years old.
He was flying a DR400 from Headcorn.
Largest Entry from UK Club:
Headcorn – 5 aircraft (Piper Cherokee, Piper Arrow, Robin DR400, TB20, and a Grumann Tiger).
Ralph Burridge Spirit of the Fly-In:
The winner of the 2026 Ralph Burridge Spirit of the Fly-In was: Les Clark
Les Clark has probably attended more Alderney fly-ins than most. He’s been coming for years.
Arguably, he deserves a trophy for his departure from Alderney last year. While the rest of the pilots were sat around Sunday morning listening to the thunder rumbling across the channel and watching the constant flashes of lightning, Les, suddenly calls the Tower for engine start and gets airborne in the thick of it back to his farm strip in his Cessna 172. He rang later to say it had not been the easiest flight, but Brize Radar had pointed him the right direction and he’d got back fine.
Back to this the 2026 Fly-In. Les booked as usual to come to Alderney in his Cessna 172.
Then we got a message that he’d have to change aircraft, because the engine in the Cessna had ‘blown’ (whatever exactly that means – it doesn’t sound good).
Then we got a message that he would have to change departure airfield, because Border Force wouldn’t allow him to use a different aircraft out of his own airstrip.
Then we got a message that to get to the alternative airfield, he would have to push his departure time right back.
Then, after all that commitment, at the last minute Les found himself rather unwell and had to go off to hospital, where we understand the Doctors told him in no uncertain terms that flying down to Alderney for the weekend was not something they were going to recommend.
So, Les didn’t make it but even then he didn’t give up – he sent his son Tim in his place!
The judges believe this shows a level of commitment that deserves to be recognised with the Ralph Burridge Spirit of the Fly-In Trophy.
Raffle:
The sale of Raffle tickets at the Gala Dinner raised £655.00, of which £327.50 (50%) is going to support the local charity, Channel Islands Air Search.
Photo Gallery:
A complete set of photos can be found in our photo gallery.
Sponsorship:
The 2026 Alderney Fly-in is sponsored by Alderney Electricity, Titan Wealth, and the Alderney Chamber of Commerce (Welcome Drinks) without whose financial support the annual Fly-in would not take place.
Special Thanks:
The organisers of the 2026 Fly-in would also like to thank Guernsey Ports, Air Traffic Control, the Alderney Airport Fire and Rescue Service, and the Guernsey Customs & Immigration Service, for their help and support in organising this event.
2026 Programme
Official Events:
Official Fly-in events include the Welcome Reception, and the Gala Dinner. These are organised by the Alderney Flying Club and places for the Gala Dinner should be booked using our online Registration Form. Please note a £30 non-refundable deposit is required for tickets to attend the Gala Dinner. Instructions regarding payment will be sent to you once we have received your Registration Form.
Friday 4th September
09:00-18:00 – Fly-in Registration and Help Desk
Location – Blonde Hedgehog
Our Welcome Team will be on hand until the last plane arrives to assist you with aviation matters and help you make the most of your visit.
Please note there will be a free shuttle from the Airport to the Blonde Hedgehog and from the Blonde Hedgehog to wherever you are staying.
18:00-19:30 – Welcome Reception
Location: The Moorings, Braye Street
Enjoy a welcome drink courtesy of the Alderney Chamber of Commerce.
You will receive your free drink voucher(s) on arrival.
19:30 until late – Dinner
Location: As with last year we are leaving it to you to decide where you choose to enjoy dinner with your friends at one of Alderney’s excellent eating places. However, we do advise booking well in advance.
Saturday 5th September
09:00-16:00 – Fly-in Registration
Location – Blonde Hedgehog
Our Welcome Team will be on hand until the last plane arrives to assist you with aviation matters and help you make the most of your visit.
Please note there will be a free shuttle from the Airport to the Blonde Hedgehog and from the Blonde Hedgehog to wherever you are staying.
19:00 until Late – Gala Dinner and Prize Giving
Location: Island Hall, St Annes
Three-course dinner provided by the ‘Blonde Hedgehog’ chief chef and his team, with pay bar, live music, and the opportunity to pit your flying skills against fellow pilots.
Pre-Booking essential (using the online Registration Form) – £65 per person (including entry for the ‘Who can fly the furthest’ model aeroplane competition).
Please note: A £30 non-refundable deposit per person for the Gala Dinner is required. Payment instructions will be sent to you once you have submitted your Advance Registration Form.
Sunday 6th September
10:00-13:00- Flight Planning and Help Desk
Location – Blonde Hedgehog
Our Welcome Team will be on hand until the last departure to assist you with your flight planning.
Please note there is a free shuttle from hotels and other accommodation to the Blonde Hedgehog and/or the airport. Contact the Welcome Team to book a ride.
The 2026 Registration Form for pilots to complete is now live! https://forms.gle/jvDs5RVCnSFspaqT6
Other things to see and do:
For information on other places to go and things to do during your visit there is no better place than the Visit Alderney website which contains information on everything there is for visitors to see and do here in Alderney. However, we have also arranged a few special attractions, as follows:
IMPORTANT – As places for some events are restricted, it is recommended that you book well in advance by contacting the event organiser using the information provided. Payment for any events, other than the Gala Dinner should also be made directly to the event organiser.
Walking Tour of Alderney’s Roman Fort and the Odeon
Unfortunately, this event has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
10:30 until 12:00 – Saturday 5th September
Organiser: Alderney Wildlife Trust
Alderney is home to one of the finest examples of a small Roman Fort in the British Isles, while the Odeon was a naval fire direction tower, built during the German occupation of the Island. Your guide on the day will provide you with a fascinating insight into two distinct periods of the Island’s heritage. For more information on these and other historic sites visit theVisit Alderney website. Pre-Booking is advised – £10 per person (payable directly to the Alderney Wildlife Trust) with a 50% discount for AWT members. For more information and to book places contact the Alderney Wildlife Trust on 01481 822935, or email them using: admin@alderneywildlife.org
Meet outside the gates of the Roman Fort at Longis. Please note it is advisable to wear stout shoes or boots as a certain amount of walking is involved.
Round the Island Boat Trips
13:30 and 15:30 – Saturday 5th September
Organiser: Alderney Wildlife Trust
Alderney has one of the most unique coastlines of any British Isles, crammed with seabirds including the much loved Puffin and more than 1% of the world’s Northern Gannet population. This amazing diversity of marine life, coupled with strong tides and the dramatic backdrop of Alderney’s coastline makes this a favourite with Fly-in visitors. Pre-Booking is essential – £37 per person (with a 20% discount for AWT members).
For more information and to book places contact the Alderney Wildlife Trust on 01481 822935, or email them using: admin@alderneywildlife.org
Meet outside the RNLI Station, down at the Harbour, 15 minutes before departure. Lifejackets provided.
Padel Tennis
10:00-12:00 – Sunday 6th September
Organiser: Alderney Tennis and Padel
The Alderney Tennis and Padel Club are offering discounted padel play for flyers, subject to prior booking of their two courts, at £20/hour. Rackets can be hired for £5/hour, New balls can be purchased at the club for £8/tube of 3. However, a basket of old balls is normally available for visitors to use.
Book in advance at alderneypadelclub@gmail.com
Note: Please wear sports shoes and suitable clothing.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
10:00-15:00 – Saturday 5th September
Location: Fort Albert
Enjoy clay pigeon shooting takes place in one of the Island’s Victorian Forts, Fort Albert, courtesy of the Alderney Shooting Club. Hourly slots are available from 10:00 until 15:00. Pre-booking essential. Book by Friday 28th August to reserve a place as there are only 20 places available – £25 per person for 25 shots or £50 per person for 50 shots.
Fully coached. Mixed difficulty, beginners, intermediates and pro’s welcome and catered for. Lower gauge shotguns available for those who prefer less recoil.
Minimum age 13 years old and all under 18’s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Email info@alderneyshootingclub.com for tickets and other enquiries.
New for 2026!
Air Traffic Control Tower Visits
14:00-17:00 – Saturday 5th September
Alderney Airport
Come and meet the guys who you normally talk to on the radio, face to face. This year, Guernsey Ports have given special permission for small groups of two to three to visit the tower for a 20 minute slot on Saturday afternoon between 1400 and 1700 (local time). If you fancy seeing Air Traffic Controllers in action please book a slot with our ‘Meet and Greet’ team at the Blonde Hedgehog when you arrive or send an email to: events@flyalderney.com.
Kiln Farm Social
11:30-15:30 – Saturday 5th September
Location: Kiln Farm, Longis Road
Sarah Langton and her family, who run the Islands dairy farm, would like to invite Fly-in visitors to join them, Islanders, and other visitors for an afternoon of great food, including delicious Guernsey Beef Smash Burgers and milkshakes made with local milk. In addition, there will be live music from Sam and Rosie in the relaxed atmosphere of Kiln Farm, with its beautiful views of the Alderney Countryside.
Important: As space will be limited please reserve a place for you and any guests, in advance, by contacting Sarah via email on: kilnfarmdairy@gmail.com.
Alderney Bells
10:00-12:00 – Saturday 5th September
Location: St Anne’s Church Tower
If you interested in learning more about English Church bell ringing the St. Anne’s Church Bellringers would be delighted to take flyers on a tour of the tower to see its full peal of bells. St Anne’6 is the the only church in the Channel Islands to have a full peal and, in addition to seeing St Anne’s Church’s 13 cast bronze bells at first hand, visitors will also be given a live demonstration by members of the ‘Band’ who will be pleased to let anyone who is interested have a go. There is no need to reserve a place, just turn up. The event is free of charge but any donations will be welcome. For more information email helen@mcgregormail.com.
Other Information
Contact Us
The best way to contact us for information regarding the 2026 Alderney Fly-in is to send an email to:
events@flyalderney.com
Visitor’s Information Centre
Looking for information? Pop into the Visitor Information Centre where you will get a warm welcome together with friendly help and advice.
Location: Victoria Street (01481 822333).
See the Visit Alderney website for opening times and other information.
Fly-in Meeting Point
PJ’s Cafe
Location: Victoria Street
If you are looking for a place in St Anne’s to have breakfast, lunch, or simply a place to meet up or enjoy a coffee and tasty snack with fellow pilots you will receive a warm welcome at PJ’s Café.
Opening hours:
Monday – Saturday – 09:00 – 14:00 (last orders for hot food 13:30 daily)
Sunday 9:30-12:30 (last orders for hot food 12:00)
Call Jill Ward on 01481 823382 for more information.
Reynards Jewellers
Location: Bottom of Victoria Street
Reynards is one of Alderney’s longest established shops selling a wide range of high quality jewellery, watches, silverware and gifts along with men’s shoes and the well known marine-life inspired Richard Bramble pottery.
Visitors who mention that they are participants in the 2026 Alderney Fly-In will receive a 15% discount – with prices already benefiting from there being no VAT chargeable in Alderney.
http://www.reynards.net
Getting Around
Cycle & Surf
Location: Bottom of Victoria Street
Electric bikes are a great way to see the Island and, if you mention you’re in Alderney for the Fly-in, Cycle and Surf will give a 10% discount.
Pre-booking is advised.
Visit the Cycle & Surf website for more information or contact Andrew Kissick on 07781 154045.
Braye Hire Cars
If you would like to rent a car to explore the island Braye Hire Cars offers a friendly and efficient service. Cars are based at the airport within 50m of the arrivals hall and prices start from just £52.50/day. Call Mike Davies on 07781 117342 or email him for more information.
A1 Taxis
Telephone: +44 (0) 1481 824182
Bill’s Taxis
Telephone: +44 (0) 7911 730303
Michelle’s Taxis
Telephone: +44 (0) 7781 137053
Availability of Avgas 100LL and JET-A1:
Currently, AVGAS 100LL and JET-A1 are not available at Alderney Airport, a situation that is unlikely to change before the Fly-in. However, AVGAS 100LL and JET-A1 are both available at Guernsey Airport (EGJB).
In view of the situation, Guernsey Ports have kindly agreed to waive the landing fee for any aircraft that is registered for the Fly-in and is uplifting fuel in Guernsey. Likewise, the local handling agent, ASG Flight Support, have agreed to charge a reduced handling fee of £20.
Important – As well as filing a flight plan, any aircraft planning to refuel in Guernsey needs to advise ASG Flight Support in advance, either by email to flightsupport@flyasg.co.uk or by telephone to 01481 263965. On arrival in Guernsey, pilots should also request clearance from ATC to taxi to ASG. They should also ensure that the ASG Marshallers are aware that they are a registered Fly-in aircraft.
For the current prices of aviation fuel at Guernsey Airport see our ‘Pilot Info’ page..
Duty Free
If you plan to refuel in Guernsey, ASG offers good selection of Duty Free items at particularly competitive prices, the savings on which could help offset the handling fee. View a copy of the ASG Order Form here to see a list of the spirits, cigarettes, and tobacco ASG have available.
Hard copies of the ASG Order Form will be available from the Fly-in Meet & Greet Team on arrival and at departure. Alternatively, you can download the ASG Order Form here.
