Duxford and the Supermarine Spitfire go hand in hand and have been a key part of a joint story for over 80 years now. With Duxford having been home to a huge number of static and airworthy examples of the type from the Mk I to Mk 24, it would be quite the challenge to … Continue reading IWM Duxford “Evolution Of An Icon” Spitfire Exhibition
As we reach the end of yet another Warbird Tails advent series, it's time for the established tradition of the annual Red Nosed Aeroplanes post. Here are the Red Nosed aeroplanes I've captured in 2021: https://www.flickr.com/photos/127965535@N04/51154082752/in/album-72157719083822769/ Shuttleworth Collection's DH88 at the Opening show of the season back in May. https://www.flickr.com/photos/127965535@N04/51220162203/in/album-72157719329648121/ Spitfire XVI RW382 at Biggin … Continue reading Red Nose Aeroplanes 2021
As this year's advent series comes to an end. I wanted to use this post to first and foremost thank all of those who stayed with me through what has been a very quiet 2021. The usual challenges of the pandemic, combined with a more traditionally busy airshow season, all wrapped up with becoming a … Continue reading Warbird Tails 2022 Preview
The Aero Legends' Headcorn shows have quickly built a reputation over the last few years of offering wonderful set pieces and fantastic collections of Spitfires and Hurricanes. 2021 was no exception. Returning to the June slot following a later season event in 2020 due to the pandemic, the show was expected to boast no fewer … Continue reading Airshow Moments 2021 Number 7 – Headcorn Battle Of Britain Finale
Another notable first flight anniversary taking place in December is that of the unique Westland Wyvern. The prototype first took to the air on December 16th 1946. https://www.flickr.com/photos/sdasmarchives/16526001753/in/photolist-aBQvXk-rbm5yH-s873Yz-rQA5iU-rbadB9-aBQvVV-aBTbVh-aBQvWn-aBTbZA-aBQvRT The type went through a number of design and powerplant changes early, initially planned to have he engine behind the pilot, in a similar set up to … Continue reading Naval First Flights December 2 – The Westland Wyvern
It is well known by many that 118 years ago today powered flight was achieved for the first time by the Wright Brothers with their iconic Wright Flyer (pictured below at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC in 2019. https://www.flickr.com/photos/127965535@N04/49217367931/in/album-72157712199008938/ Over time it seems that this date was also popular with aircraft … Continue reading 17th December – An Iconic Date
In 2019 and 2021 the Shuttleworth July show has focused on the lighter side of aviation, specifically the Light Aircraft Association. This offers a chance for sport and light aviation types to take centre stage and enjoy that typical garden party atmosphere that Old Warden evening shows are famous for. This years event was extra … Continue reading Shuttleworth Collection Flying For Fun Evening Show 17th July 2021
Another belated review for one of the fantastic Old Warden evening airshows. These events provide a wonderful experience to enjoy a summers evening in the beautiful surroundings of Old Warden and (at least in theory) a chance to enjoy calmer conditions and see some of the collection's lighter machines take to the air. The June … Continue reading Shuttleworth Evening Show “A Scurry of Chipmunks” 19th June 2021
Looking through the record books for notable aviation anniversaries, I stumbled across a couple of lesser known Royal Navy types that had their first flights on or around this date. The fist of which is the unconventional Fairey Albacore. This design flew for the first time on the 12th December 1938. https://www.flickr.com/photos/sdasmarchives/15837361162/in/photolist-q8uBH5-8AWQdr-ErDfpx-8AZW2u-EXP9qW-E3pC5s-F17UFc-8AZW1L The family resemblance … Continue reading Naval First Flights December 1 – The Fairey Albacore
A notable revival (or so it seemed) in 2021 was the impressive number of T-6 solo displays that featured throughout the year. Once common place as part of the Harvard display teams going back over the years, there has been limited variety in this regard beyond the occasional anniversary show or occasional slot at Duxford/Old … Continue reading 2021 T-6/Harvard Displays
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