Entering a team

How do you enter a team?

The easiest way is to choose one of our existing beneficiary charities.

Or if you would prefer to pull for a charity that isn’t on our existing beneficiary charity list, then get a representative of your chosen charity to get in contact with us. We’ll then send them all of the information they need to get your team registered.

How much does it cost to enter a team?

Each charity sets their own entry fee for their teams. Once you’ve contacted one of our existing beneficiary charities they’ll be able to let you know what their entry fee is.

Some charities set an entry fee with the hope of sponsorship to be added to that.

Pullers

What age do you have to be to take part?

For pullers our minimum age is 14.

Any puller between the age of 14 and 16 will need their waiver signed by an appropriate adult.

We have no maximum age, just so long as individuals are able bodied enough to pull.

Do I need any equipment for the pull?

As a puller you’re required to bring a:

• pair of suitable shoes (e.g. trainers)
• form of ID (e.g. passport or driving licence)

Pullers will be turned away if they fail to supply either.

We’d recommend bringing water and suncream.

Should I do any training before the event?

Don’t worry there isn’t any specific training required. But we do ask that all pullers are fit and healthy: without any known heart problems, back issues or currently pregnant. 

Pulling is limited to the able-bodied, as it’s very strenuous. And you do pull at your own risk.

The day

How do I get to the event?

The event takes place at European Aviation at Bournemouth Airport, detailed directions can be found on the Locations page.

View Locations

What time does the event start and finish?

The gates open at 10am and the event finishes at around 17:30.

The plane pulls take place all day, only stopping for an hours lunch break and 13:00.

Do you accept card payments?

We are only able to accept cash on site, so we popping to a cash point before hand.

What else is there to do on the day?

Plenty – we’ve got a load going on throughout the day. Like a DJ and live bands, as well as a children’s entertainer – all for free. For a small fee little ones can get their face painted or hop onto the bouncy castle.

If you’re feeling peckish be sure to get something from Signature Catering who provide delicious food and drink all day.

If it’s all a bit much and you fancy a sit down, we have a spectator area where you can sit, watch and cheer the teams pulling the plane. And if you hear about a charity pop over and say hi – every beneficiary charity has their own tent on-site.

Is the site disability friendly?

Yes, we are on a levelled tarmac site which is suitable for wheelchairs. And have disabled toilets on site.

Is there parking nearby?

We offer free parking that’s only a short walk from the entrance tent. Marshals will direct you to a space.

Is there an entry fee?

No – it’s free to enter. And there are collection tins at the entrance gate if you wish to make a donation.

The pull

How long does the pull take?

The pull itself takes between 25 seconds and 2 minutes, depending on how fast you pull.

Those that are pulling a plane are required to arrive about an hour before your pull. That way we’ll have enough time to get you registered well before you’re due to pull. 

How many people are in each team?

We recommend teams of 20 to pull, but teams have done it with less. Don’t be put off if your team is around 15 people as some of our volunteers can always help out if needed.

Teams of more than 20 can take part but they cannot compete for the fastest pull.