The LAA 80th Anniversary Rally:

A Celebration of British Sport Flying

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Join the Light Aircraft Association (LAA) at Leicester Airport (EGBG) from 4th–6th September 2026 for their landmark 80th Anniversary Rally. This premier UK General Aviation event will feature hundreds of fly-in aircraft, technical workshops, and the unveiling of the official anniversary poster designed by Amy Whitewick. Whether you are a student pilot or a seasoned aircraft builder, our guide covers essential PPR (Prior Permission Required) details, local airspace restrictions, and what to expect at the UK’s biggest GA gathering of the year.

For eighty years, the Light Aircraft Association has been the beating heart of affordable, DIY aviation in the United Kingdom. To celebrate this milestone, the 2026 LAA Rally is returning to Leicester Airport (EGBG). Since its founding in 1946 as the Ultra Light Aircraft Association, the LAA has grown to oversee thousands of aircraft, and this year's event is set to be the largest celebration of the "Permit to Fly" community in a generation.

Arriving at a major rally requires a higher level of airmanship than your average Sunday breakfast run. Pilots must be intimately familiar with the specific Briefing Sheets published for the event. A key navigation challenge for 2026 is the proximity of the Victory Show at Cosby, located just 7.5 miles Southwest of Leicester. This event typically triggers a Restricted Area (Temporary), meaning your arrival and departure routes must be precisely planned to remain clear of the active display volume.

Once on the ground, the 80th Anniversary Rally offers an unparalleled experience:

The Exhibition Village: Meet the teams behind leading UK avionics and flight planning software brands.
Workshop Way: Live demonstrations on fabric covering, riveting, and engine maintenance—ideal for those considering the "Permit" route for aircraft ownership.
The Speakers' Marquee: Featuring technical talks and a look back at the LAA’s 80-year history of innovation.
The Prize Giving: Witness the presentation of the 2026 Rally Awards, celebrating the best-maintained and most innovative aircraft in the UK.

For PPL students, the Rally is a fantastic opportunity to see Aircraft General Knowledge in action. Walking the flight line allows you to compare different wing profiles and engine types-from vintage Gipsy Moths to the latest Rotax-powered machines - up close.

Pro Tip for Pilots: PPR is mandatory and slots are expected to sell out months in advance. Remember to check for the latest AICs (Aeronautical Information Circulars) regarding frequency congestion and specific "Join" procedures for EGBG during the Rally weekend.