Rushmoor Borough Council is delighted to welcome aboard Farnborough Airport as a Silver sponsor of the Armed Forces Day National Event 2026. Farnborough Airport is the birthplace of British aviation. It was here that Samuel Cody took off in his British army aeroplane in 1908 for the UK’s first powered flight.
In the decades that followed, the airfield was home to pioneering military aviation research, from parachute and ejector seat development to aerodynamic and radar innovations, many of which shaped modern military aviation and continue to inspire the Airport’s commitment to excellence today.
Nearly a quarter of a century after the Ministry of Defence stopped operations at the historic site, the pioneering spirit lives on through Farnborough Airport, Europe’s number one business aviation airport. Today, Farnborough Airport is at the centre of a dynamic and globally recognised hub for aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing. There are more than 70 aviation-related businesses based at the airfield which are serviced by the 3,000+ people who work on site.
Farnborough Airport remains loyal to its roots. Its commitment to the Armed Forces community extends beyond heritage, through initiatives such as sponsoring the Armed Forces Day National Event, signing the Armed Forces Covenant, supporting veteran employment and regularly welcoming cadet groups to the airport. Together, these efforts reflect the Airport’s ongoing support for those who serve or have served, and for the families who are part of our wider community.
Farnborough Airport CEO, Simon Geere said: “Farnborough Airport is committed to helping ensure that Rushmoor remains a vibrant, diverse community where military and civilian life thrive side by side. As one of the biggest employers in the community, we recognise the value those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces bring to our business and our community. Farnborough Airport has a long relationship with the Ministry of Defence, which owned the Airport during two World Wars, as a military and aviation research base. Therefore, we are delighted to be partnering with them and Rushmoor Borough Council for what promises to be a memorable event for our community.”
Armed Forces Day will celebrate over 170 years of military heritage throughout the weekend of 27 and 28 June. The programme will include spectacular events, displays and ceremonial traditions for everyone to enjoy.
Visit www.rushmoor.gov.uk/armedforcesday for further details about the event including sponsorship opportunities.
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