The Vulcan to the Sky Trust, based in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has announced that Avro Vulcan XH558 will return for public engine ground runs at Doncaster Sheffield Airport in 2026. Until now, the Trust had not shared when those runs would take place, but the dates have now been confirmed. The engine runs are scheduled for March 28 and 29, followed by additional dates on April 18 and 19. Tickets for the experience are priced at £150 per person. To purchase the tickets, click HERE.
The Vulcan XH558 Engine Ground-Run Experience is available in two sessions. The morning session runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes a hot drink on arrival, with free lunch served at the meeting point after the engine run. The afternoon session takes place from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., with lunch and a hot drink provided on arrival before the ground run begins. Guests should arrive at the meeting point before their session time and present their e-ticket details so security passes can be issued. Participants will then board a coach, receive a security briefing, and travel through site security to the engine running bay where XH558 is positioned.
At the aircraft, visitors will watch the ground crew carry out pre-run preparations. This includes exercising the control surfaces, elevons, and rudder, followed by demonstrations of the bomb-bay doors and airbrakes. Selected Olympus engines will then be brought up to full power, delivering the unmistakable Vulcan howl, before the team completes the shutdown sequence. Following the ground run, guests will have time beneath XH558’s massive delta wing and a brief visit to the cockpit for a photo opportunity. The session concludes with a return to the meeting point.
The experience begins with a meet-and-greet briefing at the Vulcan offices in Doncaster. Free parking is available, along with tea or coffee. Lunch is included and will be served either before or after the engine ground-run, depending on the session booked. Note that all attendees must be 16 years or older. Those aged 16 to 17 must be accompanied by a paying adult. All participants must bring a valid photo ID, either a UK photographic driving licence or a UK passport. This is a strict requirement set by airport security. Anyone unable to produce the correct identification will not be permitted airside. For more information about The Vulcan to the Sky Trust, visit www.vulcantothesky.org.
