Following on from the resounding successful launch by numerous operators of two seat Spitfire flights, along with the exciting prospect of a two seat Buchon in 2018, it is unsurprising that talk of a two seat Hurricane has started to crop up.

Back in October I visited Hawker Restorations who confirmed at that time that their next project would be a complete restoration project on an airframe that was destined to be rebuilt into a two seat conversion.

Many readers will be well aware of the great news earlier this year that well-known Hurricane BE505/G-HHII “Pegs”, previously operated by Peter Teichman as part of the Hangar 11 collection, had been sold to Hawker Restorations and would be remaining in the UK.

I can reveal today on Warbird Tails as has been seen in the wider press that the acquisition of this airframe means that we will not have to wait a number of years to have the chance to take a flight in the back of a Hurricane. The company will soon commence a process that is expected to take 12 months or so, that will see the “Hurribomber” sympathetically converted into a two seat airframe.

The conversion will see the canopy elongated back into the “doghouse” section of the fuselage and will feature an extended Hurricane canopy. “Pegs” is likely to keep the same identity and will of course remain in “Hurribomber” configuration as a unique survivor.

Once the conversion has been completed the company will be looking for an operator to carry out the pleasure flying duties with the airframe. The complete project will also be for sale, should any operator be interested.

There is no doubt that the prospect of this conversion will become a big talking point in historic aviation circles. I think a conversion such as this represents a positive step in the Warbird world. There is no question that the rides market has become a significant driver in the industry. You only have to look at the increased winter warbird flying as a clear indicator of that. Conversions such as this means that there will be more variety in the market than the more prevalent Spitfire. One thing’s for sure, I suspect the first person to take a flight and have the chance to look out at the Hurricane wing profile, likely the first non-pilot to do so since the second world war, will be speechless!

I’d like to thank Andrew Wenman for his assistance in putting this piece together. More information on the project and information regarding aircraft for sale can be found at http://hawkerrestorations.co.uk.