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The Flight Before Christmas FAQs

A list of frequently asked questions and their answers to help make your visit as smooth as possible

Accessibility 

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?

Due to the nature of the venue, wheelchair access is not possible. Guests must be able to climb approximately 2 flights of stairs to access the aircraft. Disabled access toilets are available in AV8.

Do you have disabled / blue badge parking?

Yes, this will located close to the Grotto / B747, within the AV8 car park.

My child has additional needs, is the grotto suitable?

Our aim is for the grotto to be accessible for as many people as possible.

For those who require additional amendments to the experience, we will be offering several Northern Light sessions. These sessions are dedicated SEN sessions, where the experience can be adapted to meet individuals’ needs. This will mean that the sessions are quieter, have reduced noise and light, and are extended to allow extra time to complete the journey throughout the aircraft. We understand that there will be a wide variety of complex requirements and will aim to make every effort possible to ensure an inclusive experience for all guests.

To book this, please contact us separately, as tickets for these sessions are restricted to those who need them.

If you would like to attend a regular session, please ensure to let us know about any additional requirements during your booking process, which will assist us to help make your experience as magical as possible.

Can I buy tickets on the day?

All tickets are to be booked in advanced. No tickets will be available to purchase on the day. 

We are unable to come along to the session we booked, can we exchange our tickets?

All ticket sales are final. They cannot be amended, transferred or refunded.

Do you offer refunds?

No, we are unable to refund any tickets. Please see the terms and conditions signed upon booking for full terms.

Can I buy additional gifts?

You are able to purchase additional gift bags on the check-in for £7.50 per bag.

You can purchase a teddy separately in the toy workshop, at a cost of £6 per teddy.

Purchasing these is via card payment on the day only.

When will I receive my tickets?

Tickets will be emailed to you after booking completion.

Can my child go in the grotto alone?

No, all children must be accompanied by at least one adult. This includes an 'older sibling' ticket, as ticket holders for these are also under the age of 18.

Why do adults have to pay?

This grotto is a family friendly experience, for all to enjoy regardless of age.

Do I need to print my tickets?

Ideally, tickets should be printed for easy access on the day. However, if you are unable to print your tickets, please download them onto your smart phone, and we can scan them from your phone screen.

I missed my time slot – can I join a later one?

Whilst we understand delays and unforeseen events may happen, we cannot guarantee entry to the experience for any session apart from the one you are booked onto. We will make every effort where possible to accommodate you on the next available time slot, however, this may not be possible and is subject to availability.

Do I have to pay for parking?

Parking is free and will be a maximum of a 5-minute walk to the Grotto. 

The grotto has a dedicated parking area, on the left of the aircraft. We ask that you please leave the AV8 car park for AV8 patrons and disabled parking only.

What do I do when I arrive?

Please follow signs once onsite, directing you to the car park. Once parked, follow the pathway towards the aircraft. There will be a check-in desk for you to show your tickets. We advise that you arrive at least 15 minutes before your session.

Where are the toilets located?

Toilets are located in AV8 and next to the aircraft. We recommend that you have been to the toilet prior to your time slot, as toilets are not available once onboard.

Who can access the venue?

Only ticket holders will be granted access to the aircraft.

Do you have a charging point for electric vehicles?

We do not yet have any electric car charging points.

Where is your nearest train station?

Kemble train station is located just a 7-minute drive away from Cotswold Airport. We recommend booking a taxi in advanced. Walking from the station is not recommended due to the road being a fast ‘A’ road.

Will there be somewhere to leave a pushchair? 

We encourage all infants to be carried as pushchairs are unable to be used due to the nature of the venue. There will be a small area for pushchairs to be left at your own risk. 

Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, you cannot bring dogs along to the Grotto but well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in AV8. Assistance and support dogs that have completed their training are welcome, guests must remain in control of their animal and stay on a lead or harness at all times. 

I’m a journalist, are you having a press day?

Yes, we are on Saturday 19th November - please email events@cotswoldairport.com

Where is the Grotto?

The grotto is onboard ‘Negus’. This is a Boeing 747 that has been transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland. It is located at Cotswold Airport in between Cirencester and Tetbury in Gloucestershire. Postcode GL7 6BA. what3words ///tailwind.catching.shutting

How long will our grotto experience last?

 The immersive experience will last approximately one hour. 

Lost property

Please ensure that lost property is reported to a member of the staff team. If we locate any lost items, we will inform you to arrange collection. Any items that have not been claimed after a period of 14 days shall be disposed of. We are not responsible for the loss or theft of personal property, however incurred.

Behaviour

No member of staff should be required to deal with any customer who is showing threatening, abusive or violent behaviour. This can be via face-to-face, over the phone, or any other correspondence. We reserve the right to refuse entry to site, or remove members of the public from site who display these behaviours.

CCTV

24 hours CCTV is in use throughout the airfield and onboard the aircraft. This is used to maintain the safety of all staff and members of the public, and ensure the security of the site.

Can I take photographs?

Yes, we encourage photographs to be taken. Please ask an elf if you would like a group photo taken.

Will AV8 restaurant be open?

Yes, families will have the opportunity to choose from a range of delicious meals including gluten and dairy free, vegetarian and vegan options. There will be a selection of cakes, ice cream and hot chocolate for all to enjoy. 

Can I reserve a table for food?

Tables cannot be reserved and are on a first come, first serve basis. All food is available to takeaway. 

What are the opening times for AV8?

AV8 will be open for the duration of the grotto. If you have an end of day ticket and would like to visit the café, please visit before your session, as AV8 closes at the start of the last session of the day.

Do you accept cash?

Whilst the grotto is card only, AV8 take both card and cash payment in the café.

Do you sell alcohol?

Yes, there is a variety of different alcoholic beverages available in AV8. Please note that we reserve the right to refuse sale or access to anyone who is intoxicated. Staff are trained to ask for ID if patrons look under the age of 21. Please do not be offended if you are asked for ID.

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