I had mixed feelings and have to say, it was not bad by half. TBH, the number of a/c on display were just the same as when it was held at IWM.
Though when entering and greeted by the Eurocopter stand, it felt like I was back in the states at the convention centers back in the States,. As the EC130T2 was unveiled in Dallas and the second prototype of the EC145T2 (which also did the tour of the western states) was shown this year in Vegas.
It was nice to see the National Grid 429 make its debut and the VIP AW101 outside on the temp helipad. I guess the old saying 'Less is More' can apply.
Plus side there's more amenities, inside Excel to cater to all tastes, rather than the food facilities at IWM, and restaurant / cafe run inside the chalets. Also access to the City so much more attractions.
Negative side, takes a few hours to drive / train it into Excel and have not got the benefit of a grassy airfield for owners / operators to fly in and nostalgic aviation plus free entry into the museum. (Normally entry into the IWM is around 12 to 15 quid)
Slightly disappointed that it is in Amsterdam next year as opposed to Berlin, am sure the city of canals and cafes and window shopping
will appease to all tastes. Does anyone know anything about the proposed venue there? Is it similar to Excel or bigger?
Cheers