Mach Loop Wales LFA7

The Mach Loop, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Wales, is one of the world’s most renowned low-level military training areas. It’s a paradise for aviation enthusiasts and photographers, offering the rare opportunity to witness high-speed, low-altitude aircraft manoeuvres up close. This guide will explore what makes the Mach Loop so unique, the types of aircraft you can expect to see, and some essential tips for planning your visit.

What is the Mach Loop?

The Mach Loop, also known as the Machynlleth Loop, is a series of valleys in the Welsh countryside located between Dolgellau in the north and Machynlleth in the south. The Loop is part of the Low Flying Area 7 (LFA7) and is used by military pilots to practice low-level flight training. The narrow valleys, steep hills, and unpredictable weather conditions provide a challenging environment for pilots, making it an ideal training ground for British and international air forces.

Why is the Mach Loop Famous?

The Mach Loop has gained international fame due to its unique location and the thrilling sight of fast jets and other military aircraft flying just a few hundred feet above the ground. Aviation photographers and enthusiasts flock to the area to capture stunning images and videos of these aircraft in action, often from vantage points that place them at eye level with the jets as they roar through the valleys.

Mach Loop in Wales LFA7

Types of Aircraft That Fly the Mach Loop

One of the main attractions of the Mach Loop is the variety of aircraft that can be seen navigating these tight valleys. Here are some of the most common aircraft types that frequent the Loop:

1. Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon FGR4

Base: RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire
Overview: The Eurofighter Typhoon is a twin-engine, canard-delta wing multirole fighter. It’s the backbone of the RAF’s air defence and can be seen in the Mach Loop executing agile manoeuvres, demonstrating its incredible speed and precision.

2. RAF Hawk T2

Base: RAF Valley, Anglesey
Overview: The Hawk T2 is a jet trainer aircraft primarily used for advanced training of RAF pilots. Its smaller size and impressive agility make it a frequent visitor to the Mach Loop, where trainee pilots hone their skills in realistic low-level flight scenarios.

3. RAF F-35B Lightning II

Base: RAF Marham, Norfolk
Overview: The F-35B is a cutting-edge stealth multirole fighter capable of short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL). Although rarer than other aircraft, spotting an F-35B in the Mach Loop is a treat due to its advanced technology and distinctive profile.

Mach Loop Wales LFA7 - What aircraft fly through the Mach Loop

4. USAF F-15E Strike Eagle

Base: RAF Lakenheath, Suffolk
Overview: The F-15E Strike Eagle is a highly versatile fighter-bomber by the United States Air Force. Its powerful twin engines and extensive weapon load make it a formidable presence in the Mach Loop, where it often practices low-level bombing runs.

5. USAF C-130J Hercules

Base: RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk
Overview: The USAF uses the C-130J tactical airlift for various roles, including troop transport and medical evacuation. Seeing a large aircraft like the Hercules threading through the narrow valleys of the Mach Loop is a sight to behold, showcasing the skill of its pilots.

6. RAF A400M Atlas

Base: RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
Overview: The A400M Atlas is a European four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. The RAF uses it for strategic airlift missions, and despite its size, the Atlas can often be seen making its way through the Mach Loop at low altitudes.

Mach Loop Wales LFA7 - Where is the Mach Loop

Best Viewing Locations in the Mach Loop

You’ll want to find the best vantage points to fully appreciate the spectacle of aircraft flying through the Mach Loop. Here are some of the most popular spots:

1. Cad East and Cad West

These are perhaps the most famous viewing locations in the Mach Loop. Both offer excellent views of aircraft as they pass through the valleys, with Cad West providing a slightly higher elevation. The backdrop of the hills and valleys makes for perfect photo opportunities.

2. Corris Corner

Located near the village of Corris, this spot offers a unique perspective of aircraft banking around a tight corner. The proximity to the aircraft makes it an adrenaline-pumping experience for viewers.

3. Bluebell

This spot, located near Dinas Mawddwy, offers a more distant view of the aircraft but provides stunning panoramic shots as jets streak across the sky.

Mach Loop in Wales LFA7

Tips for Visiting the Mach Loop

Check the Weather: The Mach Loop is mountainous so that the weather can change rapidly. Clear skies provide the best conditions for spotting aircraft, but some of the best photographs can also be taken in moody, cloudy conditions.
Be Prepared to Wait: There’s no schedule for aircraft flying through the Loop. Some days might be busy with activity, while others could be quiet. Patience is critical, and food, water, and warm clothing are recommended.
Safety First: The terrain around the Mach Loop is rugged, so wear sturdy footwear and be aware of your surroundings. Some viewing spots are pretty high and can be challenging to reach.
Please respect the Environment: The Mach Loop is located in a beautiful part of Wales, so it’s essential to appreciate the natural environment. Take all your litter home and be mindful of the local wildlife.

When to Visit the Mach Loop

While the Mach Loop is active year-round, the best times to visit are typically during the weekdays when military training flights are most frequent. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to catch aircraft in action. Remember that public holidays and weekends are quieter as military operations are reduced.

Conclusion

The Mach Loop in Wales offers an unparalleled experience for anyone fascinated by military aviation. With a diverse array of aircraft flying through the valleys at breakneck speeds, the Loop provides some of the world’s most exciting and up-close aviation photography opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or a first-time visitor, the Mach Loop is a destination that promises to leave you in awe. Plan your visit carefully, bring your camera, and prepare to witness some of the most thrilling aerial displays in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

Frequently Asked Questions…

What aircraft fly through the loop?
See above
What is the best time to visit?
See above
Is there a timetable?
NO. There is a military timetable you can download, but IT IS NOT FOR THE MACH LOOP.
Do the RAF fly through the Mach Loop?
In short, they do, but fewer RAF aircraft use the Mach Loop these days. This decline is mainly due to changes in training requirements and aircraft assignments.
Where is the Mach Loop?
Where is Cad West?
Where is Cad East?
Can I park there?
Can I walk to the Mach Loop?
I have written a comprehensive guide to the Mach Loop that addresses all of the above questions – CLICK