RAF At Home Binbrook Lightning photo shoot

Join COAP Wings and Time Line Events for an exclusive photography shoot at former RAF Binbrook, home of the legendary English Electric Lightning. This full-day event runs from 1300hrs to approximately 1830hrs on 31st October 2026, featuring the restored Lightning XR724.

The shoot includes a full engine run with all lights activated, multiple photographic opportunities to capture the jet 'clean', and extended time to photograph the airframe under lights as daylight fades into evening. The event celebrates the aircraft's heritage with period-correct re-enactors portraying the era in which XR724 is currently set.

XR724, built as an F.3 in 1965 and later converted to an F.6, served with 11 Squadron, 5 Squadron, and the Lightning Training Flight before retirement in 1987. After various uses including radar target duties for BAe Tornado development, she was acquired by the Lightning Association in 1992. Following years of deterioration and limited restoration work, significant engineering efforts over the past five years culminated in her first successful starter firing since 2007 in April 2024, followed by a complete repaint.

Tickets are limited and highly sought after. The event offers BBQ and hot drinks on site. This shoot is the first of a two-part RAF At Home Team weekend; part II continues on 1st November at former RAF Coltishall in Norfolk featuring the Jaguar aircraft. Photographers are encouraged to book both events for a complete weekend experience. Tickets are available through both Time Line Events and COAP Wings.