Sign up here to fly from/into/at LEE
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: EGHF
Posts: 129
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lee-On -Solent
I regularly fly from Lee with aircraft hired from Carill Aviation.
In the days of mixed use, gliders and powered flight seemed to get along fine and I wasn't aware of any safety issues, although the gliding activity was quite intense at times.
Police and MCA movements are few but obviously demand the highest priority.
The current threatend ban on GA from the 16th is devastating to the businesses and users on site.
Lee has an excellent runway, quick access to class G airspace and is a joy to fly from, I hope the current problems will be resolved by reasonable compromise - I am sure there is a way forward here to suite everyone's needs.
In the days of mixed use, gliders and powered flight seemed to get along fine and I wasn't aware of any safety issues, although the gliding activity was quite intense at times.
Police and MCA movements are few but obviously demand the highest priority.
The current threatend ban on GA from the 16th is devastating to the businesses and users on site.
Lee has an excellent runway, quick access to class G airspace and is a joy to fly from, I hope the current problems will be resolved by reasonable compromise - I am sure there is a way forward here to suite everyone's needs.
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Chilterns/Blighty
Posts: 478
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
There is every chance the company I fly a business twin for, occasionally, would want to use Lee on Solent on a fairly regular basis. Unlike grass you can use concrete/tarmac whatever the weather.
Use it before you lose it!
Use it before you lose it!
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: london
Age: 65
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lee on Solent
I totally agree, with Bournemouth and Southampton pricing GA away Chichester only grass... the nearest proper GA user friendly airport Shoreham I might as well drive from London?... I very often visit the portsmouth and fareham areas on business and a useable Hard runway with easy transport links to Portsmouth would be a major boost!!! We need more GA / Business GA fields available... I know Lee has been proposed for many things in its history including an imigration centre...But why not use it for what it has been designed for... Having spoken to many locals in Lee and surrounding areas I am sure there would be popular support!!
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: London
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lee on Solent
There really should be no debate about this at all. This area of the country desperately needs a good GA airport, and aircraft movement capacity is growing, and needs runways and facilities like Lee.
Think of Cannes on the south of France - the runway at Lee is probably bigger! The authorities should be looking for ways to utilise this fantastic resource to the good of the local economy, making it possible to be used for all sorts of air operations.
Personally I have flown into Lee many times, I live and fly from the London airports, but visit as I have family that live on the airfield perimeter. All the locals love the airfield that gives character to the whole sea front just like in Cannes...
If it was more friendly and open to GA - it could become a very desirable destination for private pilots and beyond.
The "hostile" nature of the way it has been administered over previous years has kept non-locals away from the field, but still aviation thrives there! Imagine what a success story to the local tourist industry, retirement property valuations (much easier to fly than drive, many well off people could retire there with their aircraft). The airfield also has huge potential to attract local aviation related businesses.
Opening up LoS to flying in the same way as Shoreham or Lydd is not only necessary, but should be a "no-brainer".
Think of Cannes on the south of France - the runway at Lee is probably bigger! The authorities should be looking for ways to utilise this fantastic resource to the good of the local economy, making it possible to be used for all sorts of air operations.
Personally I have flown into Lee many times, I live and fly from the London airports, but visit as I have family that live on the airfield perimeter. All the locals love the airfield that gives character to the whole sea front just like in Cannes...
If it was more friendly and open to GA - it could become a very desirable destination for private pilots and beyond.
The "hostile" nature of the way it has been administered over previous years has kept non-locals away from the field, but still aviation thrives there! Imagine what a success story to the local tourist industry, retirement property valuations (much easier to fly than drive, many well off people could retire there with their aircraft). The airfield also has huge potential to attract local aviation related businesses.
Opening up LoS to flying in the same way as Shoreham or Lydd is not only necessary, but should be a "no-brainer".
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: england
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lee-on-Solent
Of course I'd visit LoS if the Constabulary let me!
Why they're operating airfields instead of nicking villains defeats me - must be down to the owners failing to appoint a proper aviation outfit to do this.
Considering the owners are public bodies, it's even more disgusting the public will not have access to a fine airfield. Surely there is a market for a GA airfield serving a place as big as the Southampton/Portsmouth conurbation? (Eastleigh doesn't count any more, on cost and ATC grounds).
The lack of ATC at LoS must be only a pretext for closure; plenty of aviation happens in the world outside with no ATC at all, under VFR, using the proper procedures, Safetycom, and good airmanship. Agreed local procedures cope with a mix of traffic types very well at plenty of other aerodromes.
An AFISO or even Air/ground radio would be a bonus, and give most of the 'benefits' of full ATC at less expense.
If it's not the eco-lobby, it's the council; if not avaricious property developers, it's the CAA; now even our protectors are out to Cancel All Aviation . . .
Why they're operating airfields instead of nicking villains defeats me - must be down to the owners failing to appoint a proper aviation outfit to do this.
Considering the owners are public bodies, it's even more disgusting the public will not have access to a fine airfield. Surely there is a market for a GA airfield serving a place as big as the Southampton/Portsmouth conurbation? (Eastleigh doesn't count any more, on cost and ATC grounds).
The lack of ATC at LoS must be only a pretext for closure; plenty of aviation happens in the world outside with no ATC at all, under VFR, using the proper procedures, Safetycom, and good airmanship. Agreed local procedures cope with a mix of traffic types very well at plenty of other aerodromes.
An AFISO or even Air/ground radio would be a bonus, and give most of the 'benefits' of full ATC at less expense.
If it's not the eco-lobby, it's the council; if not avaricious property developers, it's the CAA; now even our protectors are out to Cancel All Aviation . . .
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Gosport
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I live in Gosport, own a tourism business in Gosport and frequently travel to the north of England. I would dearly love to have my plane at LOS. To have a locally based plane would open all maner of different business avenues.
If the plane was able to be based at LOS I would probably use it 2 or 3 times a week, say 150 movements each year.
If the plane was able to be based at LOS I would probably use it 2 or 3 times a week, say 150 movements each year.
Join Date: Jan 1999
Location: UK.
Posts: 124
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
As a 'local' but now living in Scotland, It would be my firm intention to use it at least a dozen times per year. I would also be happy to contribute to a 'fighting fund' were it deemed necessary.
DONT LET IT BECOME ANOTHER GRAVEL PIT!!!
CRX
DONT LET IT BECOME ANOTHER GRAVEL PIT!!!
CRX
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Down at the sharp pointy end, where all the weather is made.
Age: 74
Posts: 1,684
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes
on
3 Posts
I'd use LOS regularly to visit my sister who lives in Alverstoke.
I'm sure the place would be a very popular. There's a vacuum along the south coast. Just don't put ATC in there, just a FISO, though! Don't let it become another Shoreham!
Cheers,
TheOddOne
I'm sure the place would be a very popular. There's a vacuum along the south coast. Just don't put ATC in there, just a FISO, though! Don't let it become another Shoreham!
Cheers,
TheOddOne
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: England
Posts: 102
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Lee-On-Solent update
Lee-On-Solent Update - 5 JAN 2008
Lee Flying Association - 5 Jan Members Update (posted with permission)
The LFA have been campaigning since May 2007 for talks to achieve a solution whereby general aviation can continue and flourish at Lee-On-Solent. As a result of approaches by the LFA solicitor, Hampshire Police Authority (HPA) have deferred closure of the airfield a second time, until 14th May 2008, to enable the consultation process to get under way.
It is expected that the talks will begin later this month, under the auspices of a forum created by Fareham Borough Council. The start of talks however is long way from saving the airfield for General Aviation. Members cannot allow themselves to be complacent as we have no substantive reason yet to believe that either Hampshire Police Authority, SEEDA or the MCA have in any way changed their stance, and therefore the LFA will continue to campaign vigorously.
AOPA and LFA have been lobbying government departments (including the Secretaries of State for Transport, and Defence) to confirm the the identity of the regulator for the airfield, which could be either the CAA or MoD-DPA. This selection is a fundamental aspect of airfield operations, and a regulator assessment is required as part of the way forward for Lee-On-Solent. The government’s own legal review of this matter, triggered by LFA solicitor action, has been taking some considerable time. However indications are that Queens Counsel may now be close to making its decision on this matter.
Nonetheless and with great regret we have to announce the closure of the last remaining flying school at Lee-On-Solent. Carill Aviation has ceased trading, ending 22 years provision of highly reputable aviation training and aircraft rental services in South Hampshire. The situation was forced on the Owner by the operating restrictions imposed by the HPA since May 2007, and the continuing uncertainties created by the HPA closure decisions.
Lee on Solent has already lost both of its flying schools and one of the 2 maintenance companies. This is far from the declared objectives of encouraging the growth of aviation businesses at Lee on Solent. Further aviation related businesses are expected to cease trading in the near future, unless a supportive approach is adopted immediately and continues for the duration of the talks between SEEDA, the MCA and HPA. This more positive stance is being sought. Further member updates, press releases etc will be available later this month.
The LFA Membership is continuing to grow, and fighting fund donations are being received from across the U.K,
There are many current and ongoing actions being pursued by the LFA on behalf of the membership. It is important that the LFA encourages all members and as many local supporters as possible to express their support for aviation, through the consultation process below, now (before Jan 12th). We sincerely hope you will email a pro-aviation response to SEEDA, and encourage others you know to do so as well.
Please Respond urgently to the SEEDA Concepts for the Daedalus Site by 12th January at the latest:
The South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) recently unveiled their concepts for the airfield site at Lee-On-Solent. They are available for review on-line at http://www.Daedalus-seeda.co.uk/content/default.asp?PageId=135 and include potential locations for aviation activities.
SEEDA wants to hear your thoughts and views about them, and the Lee Flying Association would like to encourage you to have your views included at this crucial stage of the consultation process.
Please email any comments you have in relation to the SEEDA concepts to [email protected]. Lee Flying Association would be pleased if you would copy [email protected] on your email, so that we can also be informed of your views regarding the site in general and aviation in particular.
LFA's own co-coordinated response to the SEEDA concepts is available at www.eghf.co.uk
Respondents keen to see general aviation continuing at the airfield might like to consider consider expressing the following preferences in their letter or e-mail of support:
- A range of General Aviation activities at the airfield (such as gliding, powered light aircraft, helicopter and police operations
- Private and recreational flying opportunities available to all
- Formally agreed access, without unique restrictions, to the MCA runways from SEEDA (and possibly MoD) owned adjacent land for local and visiting aircraft
- A flying club or clubs for trained pilots of various types of powered aircraft and gliders
- Flying training for various types of powered aircraft and gliders (even if training flights position to Isle of Wight airfields if necessary)
- A place to socialise, watch the flying, eat out at airfield clubhouse; accessible to the public and a centre for encouraging young peoples interest in aviation
- Business aviation (.e. travel by private/charter aircraft - not airliners)
- No more development encroachment on the airfield open space which would curtail aviation use of the runways and taxiways
- Improvement or replacement of existing aviation infrastructure on SEEDA-owned land, rather than the construction of new facilities in the MCA-owned open land
- Community uses of the open space, similar to those which were accommodated prior to MCA and SEEDA land purchase; such as practice areas for Children's Motorcycle Display Teams and Aero Modellers clubs
- The creation of a strategic integrated aviation education and training initiatives on-site, providing skills to the many aviation-related employers in the region
- Preservation of aviation heritage through projects, education opportunities, on site
- Aviation support businesses such as aircraft maintenance, fuel services
Donations to fighting funds still required. MANY, MANY THANKS to all who have contributed so far!!! NOW is the time to pitch in and help please, thank you.
Lee Flying Association
www.eghf.co.uk
[email protected]
Lee Flying Association - 5 Jan Members Update (posted with permission)
The LFA have been campaigning since May 2007 for talks to achieve a solution whereby general aviation can continue and flourish at Lee-On-Solent. As a result of approaches by the LFA solicitor, Hampshire Police Authority (HPA) have deferred closure of the airfield a second time, until 14th May 2008, to enable the consultation process to get under way.
It is expected that the talks will begin later this month, under the auspices of a forum created by Fareham Borough Council. The start of talks however is long way from saving the airfield for General Aviation. Members cannot allow themselves to be complacent as we have no substantive reason yet to believe that either Hampshire Police Authority, SEEDA or the MCA have in any way changed their stance, and therefore the LFA will continue to campaign vigorously.
AOPA and LFA have been lobbying government departments (including the Secretaries of State for Transport, and Defence) to confirm the the identity of the regulator for the airfield, which could be either the CAA or MoD-DPA. This selection is a fundamental aspect of airfield operations, and a regulator assessment is required as part of the way forward for Lee-On-Solent. The government’s own legal review of this matter, triggered by LFA solicitor action, has been taking some considerable time. However indications are that Queens Counsel may now be close to making its decision on this matter.
Nonetheless and with great regret we have to announce the closure of the last remaining flying school at Lee-On-Solent. Carill Aviation has ceased trading, ending 22 years provision of highly reputable aviation training and aircraft rental services in South Hampshire. The situation was forced on the Owner by the operating restrictions imposed by the HPA since May 2007, and the continuing uncertainties created by the HPA closure decisions.
Lee on Solent has already lost both of its flying schools and one of the 2 maintenance companies. This is far from the declared objectives of encouraging the growth of aviation businesses at Lee on Solent. Further aviation related businesses are expected to cease trading in the near future, unless a supportive approach is adopted immediately and continues for the duration of the talks between SEEDA, the MCA and HPA. This more positive stance is being sought. Further member updates, press releases etc will be available later this month.
The LFA Membership is continuing to grow, and fighting fund donations are being received from across the U.K,
There are many current and ongoing actions being pursued by the LFA on behalf of the membership. It is important that the LFA encourages all members and as many local supporters as possible to express their support for aviation, through the consultation process below, now (before Jan 12th). We sincerely hope you will email a pro-aviation response to SEEDA, and encourage others you know to do so as well.
Please Respond urgently to the SEEDA Concepts for the Daedalus Site by 12th January at the latest:
The South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) recently unveiled their concepts for the airfield site at Lee-On-Solent. They are available for review on-line at http://www.Daedalus-seeda.co.uk/content/default.asp?PageId=135 and include potential locations for aviation activities.
SEEDA wants to hear your thoughts and views about them, and the Lee Flying Association would like to encourage you to have your views included at this crucial stage of the consultation process.
Please email any comments you have in relation to the SEEDA concepts to [email protected]. Lee Flying Association would be pleased if you would copy [email protected] on your email, so that we can also be informed of your views regarding the site in general and aviation in particular.
LFA's own co-coordinated response to the SEEDA concepts is available at www.eghf.co.uk
Respondents keen to see general aviation continuing at the airfield might like to consider consider expressing the following preferences in their letter or e-mail of support:
- A range of General Aviation activities at the airfield (such as gliding, powered light aircraft, helicopter and police operations
- Private and recreational flying opportunities available to all
- Formally agreed access, without unique restrictions, to the MCA runways from SEEDA (and possibly MoD) owned adjacent land for local and visiting aircraft
- A flying club or clubs for trained pilots of various types of powered aircraft and gliders
- Flying training for various types of powered aircraft and gliders (even if training flights position to Isle of Wight airfields if necessary)
- A place to socialise, watch the flying, eat out at airfield clubhouse; accessible to the public and a centre for encouraging young peoples interest in aviation
- Business aviation (.e. travel by private/charter aircraft - not airliners)
- No more development encroachment on the airfield open space which would curtail aviation use of the runways and taxiways
- Improvement or replacement of existing aviation infrastructure on SEEDA-owned land, rather than the construction of new facilities in the MCA-owned open land
- Community uses of the open space, similar to those which were accommodated prior to MCA and SEEDA land purchase; such as practice areas for Children's Motorcycle Display Teams and Aero Modellers clubs
- The creation of a strategic integrated aviation education and training initiatives on-site, providing skills to the many aviation-related employers in the region
- Preservation of aviation heritage through projects, education opportunities, on site
- Aviation support businesses such as aircraft maintenance, fuel services
Donations to fighting funds still required. MANY, MANY THANKS to all who have contributed so far!!! NOW is the time to pitch in and help please, thank you.
Lee Flying Association
www.eghf.co.uk
[email protected]
