RNAS Merryfield Airport serves Ilminster, Somerset, GB.
RNAS Merryfield (EGDW) in Ilminster, Somerset, is a Royal Naval Air Station primarily used as a military helicopter training facility, not a commercial airport. Therefore, traditional traveler reviews, terminal facilities, security procedures, or customs experiences are not applicable. Reviews and experiences found pertain exclusively to the annual community open evenings hosted by the base, which are generally well-received.
Overall traveler sentiment at RNAS Merryfield's community open evenings is highly positive, with large crowds of local residents, especially families, attending to engage with the military and experience the airfield. Visitors express satisfaction with the unique opportunity to see military aircraft up close and learn about the Fleet Air Arm.
What Travelers Love
- Access to Military Aircraft: Visitors greatly appreciate the chance to see both static aircraft displays (including Sea Kings, Lynx, and Wildcat helicopters) and flying displays, which often include demonstrations of training roles such as auto-rotation and fast-roping.
- Educational Experience: The open evenings provide an opportunity to learn about the Fleet Air Arm's operations and the intensive helicopter flying training conducted at Merryfield. Sailors and aircrew are often on hand to explain their roles.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Events are considered great for families, with children particularly enjoying getting up close to the aircraft, face painting, and various ground displays from fire stations and Royal Marine Commandos.
- Free Admission and Parking: Admission and parking for the open evenings are consistently free, making the event accessible to the local community.
- Community Engagement: The open evenings are seen as a "thank you" to the local community, fostering strong support for the military efforts.
Common Complaints
- Weather Impact on Displays: Occasionally, flying displays, such as parachute jumps, have been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions like low cloud cover.
- Queues for Attractions: There have been mentions of long queues to access popular static aircraft displays, such as getting inside a Sea King helicopter.
- Noise from Operations (General): While not a complaint specific to the open days themselves, the base acknowledges the noise impact of its regular training operations on the local community, though efforts are made to minimize disturbance.
In summary, RNAS Merryfield's community open evenings are highly valued by attendees, offering a unique and engaging insight into military aviation with a strong focus on community relations. While some minor inconveniences like queues or weather-affected displays can occur, the overall experience of interacting with the Fleet Air Arm and its aircraft is a significant draw.
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Where is RNAS Merryfield Airport located?
RNAS Merryfield is located in Ilminster, Somerset, GB, at an elevation of 151 ft. Its IATA code is — and ICAO code is EGDW.