Planning your trip to the airshow? Here’s what you need to know about parking and arriving by car:

·         Free Parking: The Airshow offers free general parking in our large grass fields adjacent to the event site. No advance booking is required for general parking – it’s first-come, first-served on the day. If you have purchased a Mustang Lounge ticket you will be directed to park in the VIP Mustang Carpark.

·         Accessible Parking: Accessible parking areas are provided near the main entrance gate for Blue Badge holders or others with mobility needs. These spots are closer to the action to minimize travel distance on foot/wheelchair. If you require accessible parking, display your Blue Badge (or inform a marshal if you don’t have one but need assistance) and you will be directed to the appropriate area. Accessible parking is typically free of charge, but availability is limited – arriving early is advised.

·         Parking at Own Risk: When you park your vehicle at the event, you do so at your own risk. The Organisers are not liable for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents while on site. This includes damage due to other vehicles, weather, or ground conditions. We will have staff overseeing the parking areas, but we cannot accept responsibility for safeguarding every vehicle. Please ensure you lock your car and don’t leave valuables in plain sight (or better, leave them at home).

·         No Overnight Parking: Overnight parking/camping in the car park is not permitted. All vehicles must be removed at the end of each show day. The car parks will be secured after hours, and any vehicles left may be subject to removal. (If you have an exceptional circumstance, please speak with the parking manager in advance to discuss options, but generally no vehicles on site overnight.)

·         Follow the Marshals: As you approach the aerodrome, you’ll see signs and marshals directing traffic. Please follow all signage and the instructions given by our parking marshals. They will guide you to the next available parking space. For efficiency and safety, we ask that you do not park outside of the directed spots or attempt to hold/swap spaces. The system is designed to get everyone in smoothly, so cooperating with staff is greatly appreciated.

·         Traffic Flow & Patience: With around 20,000 visitors expected over the weekend, please anticipate some traffic when arriving and especially when leaving. Our team, in coordination with local police, will manage traffic flow to the best of our ability. Expect delays at peak exit times. We recommend coming early (gates open at [time]) and, if possible, staying a bit after the final display to enjoy on-ground entertainment or exhibits while the parking lot traffic thins out.

·         Grass Field Parking: Most general parking will be on grass fields. In dry conditions, the ground is firm and easy to drive on. If we’ve had heavy rain, parts of the field might be soft or muddy – we will have tractors or towing vehicles on standby in case anyone needs help getting out. Drive slowly and carefully on the grass, as there may be uneven patches. Also, please only park where directed; some areas might be roped off if the ground is waterlogged or reserved.

·         Restricted Vehicle Movement: For safety, during the air display flying program (typically mid-day to afternoon), we may restrict vehicle movement in or out of the parking areas. This is to ensure no cars are moving while large crowds are near the runways or while planes are taking off/landing nearby. If you arrive late or need to leave early, be aware you might be asked to wait until a safe window when ground movement is allowed. Similarly, immediately after the show ends, there might be a controlled release of cars to prevent congestion. Please be patient and follow marshal directions during these times.

·         Alternative Transportation: If you want to avoid parking altogether, consider car-pooling or being dropped off. We also provide a shuttle bus service from [nearest town or designated park & ride] – check our Directions page for more info on public transport and shuttle options. Motorcycles and bicycles have a separate parking section (helmet storage is not provided, so bring a lock for your bike).

·         Departure: When leaving, all exits will be clearly marked. Marshals will again direct you out of the car park. Do not drive outside of the marked exit routes. Watch for pedestrians and follow the speed limit (which is 5 mph within the event site). If traffic is queued, please do not block intersections and be courteous to fellow drivers merging. Local road regulations apply, and police may be managing the main road junctions – heed their signals.

·         No Parking Zones: Please note that the lanes and villages around Headcorn have some no parking zones on event days. Do not park on verges, private driveways, or any place other than official event parking – you may be ticketed or towed by local authorities. We’ve worked with the community to minimize disruption, so use the provided car parks for everyone’s benefit.

We appreciate your cooperation in making parking as smooth as possible. By following the guidelines above, you’ll help us get everyone in and out efficiently and safely. Enjoy the show knowing your vehicle is in a designated area and thank you for your patience during peak traffic times!