Last weekend saw one of Seawing Flying Club Southend’s most enjoyable and well-attended fly-outs in recent memory. Our destination? Seething Airfield, tucked away in the Norfolk countryside, famed not only for its welcoming atmosphere but also for its legendary home-made pizzas.
A Day Built for Flying
The weather gods were smiling on us from the start. With light winds, excellent visibility, and just enough scattered cloud to paint the sky, it was the kind of day that every pilot dreams of when planning a fly-out. The forecast had promised benign conditions, and for once, reality delivered.
From early morning, the Southend apron was alive with chatter, laughter, and the buzz of piston engines being coaxed into life. One by one, the twelve participating aircraft taxied out, a line-up that was as varied as it was impressive. We had a mix of club favourites, privately-owned tourers, and a few visiting friends’ aircraft joining in the fun.
Twelve Aircraft, Twenty-Seven People
In total, 27 people took part in the adventure. With seats filled by pilots, co-pilots, and enthusiastic passengers, it felt like a true club occasion. For some, it was their first group fly-out experience, while for others it was a chance to revisit an old favourite.
The short hop from Southend to Seething was smooth and scenic. Cruising above the patchwork of fields and rivers of East Anglia, there was a real sense of camaraderie on the radio. Position reports and friendly banter kept spirits high, with aircraft calling in as they reached familiar landmarks en route.
The Warm Welcome at Seething
Arriving at Seething Airfield, we were greeted in true Norfolk style. The airfield volunteers were on hand to help marshal aircraft, ensuring the line of visiting planes looked smartly parked on the grass. For a small airfield, Seething has a huge heart, and their hospitality always makes the trip worthwhile.
But of course, the highlight was waiting for us inside: the pizzas.
Pizza, Friendship, and Flying Tales
It’s not every airfield that boasts wood-fired, home-made pizzas served fresh and hot, but Seething has made it something of a tradition. Plates piled high with crispy, cheesy creations quickly found their way into our hands, and the hangar buzzed with the sound of conversation.
Pilots swapped flying stories, compared notes on aircraft, and planned future adventures, while passengers enjoyed the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. For those who had never visited Seething before, it was a revelation—a reminder of the unique charm of small airfields, run by passionate volunteers who keep aviation alive in the UK.
A True Club Spirit
What made the day special wasn’t just the food (though the pizzas were excellent) or the flying (which was superb). It was the sense of community. Seeing so many members and friends come together, share an experience, and create memories is exactly what Seawing Flying Club is all about.
From the coordinated departures at Southend to the group photographs at Seething, the event showcased the very best of general aviation: fun, friendship, and the freedom of flight.
Looking Ahead
By late afternoon, as engines fired up again and the aircraft lifted gracefully back into the September skies, there was already talk of “the next one.” Where should we go? What excuse can we find for another fly-out? That’s the magic of days like this—they leave you hungry not just for pizza, but for more adventures.
A huge thank you goes to Seething Airfield for hosting us so warmly, and to everyone who joined in and made it such a memorable day. With 27 people and 12 aircraft, this was one of our biggest outings yet, and proof that the Seawing Flying Club spirit is alive and thriving.
Until next time—blue skies and happy landings!
