Hi Jim,
Just some thoughts below:
I have really enjoyed the numerous events over the years that I have attended at RAF Coningsby and in today's climate fully understand why there are now limitations as to what can happen on the day.
Ticket allocation always seems to be a problem and speaking to many spotters over the years it would appear that a ballot via email/letter application seems to be the fairest way.
Price for static events/night shoots, Ive seen advertised, run in the order of £20 per person.
Night shoot events are good but do not appeal to everybody due to the equipment needed on the day to capture great images.
Issues around live aircraft can be successfully controlled as the Lightning Preservation group at Bruntingthorpe can testify.
Coltishall use to hold many events with live aircraft taxing out in front of a crowd line.
For me, an event like that held for the last of the Jaguars at Coningsby would be good. Excellent area for photography (HAS Side), well contained, clear rules for everybody stated from the very beginning.
Live start up of a jaguar in the HAS and then taxied out in front of the crowd.
Additionally, a nice line out of based aircraft in different weapons fit with raised platforms for different angles would be great.
BBMF aircraft would be nice on the static line as well.
Squadron memorabilia on sale seems to always go down well.
Very difficult I know, but special anniversary painted aircraft from various RAF / RN Squadrons I believe would go down well.
These are only my thoughts kind of collated from events I have attended over the years.
Jim, it may help people with their reply's if you could give a bit more detail around what your limitations are i.e. is it people being able to help on the day, insurance, Health and Safety etc.
Certain based events abroad are controlled on the day by enthusiast who have built very good relationships with the hosting Squadrons.
If it is Health and Safety issues give me a PM

as i have to deal with them every day of the week
Also i think it is great that Coningsby are still considering holding these events.
Whatever happens this year I'm sure it will be a great success, raise lots of money for based charities and hopefully can be built upon for future years.
Andy