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Re: Canadian Beaufighter RD867

Posted by Mike Henniger on Fri Jun 28, 2002 07:12:23 AM

In reply top Canadian Beaufighter RD867 posted by Cees on Thu Jun 27, 2002 04:40:31 AM

Hi All,

If anyone is interested in a close-up, just go to the museum on July 1 (Canada Day). Admission is free, and the ramp is open. Tours are often given of the larger aircraft parked outside, and engine run ups are performed. I even understand that there will be some CWH aircraft doing fly bys.

As for the Beau not being stored inside, it is understandable. Their storage area of their current building is PACKED! Things are fitted in tight. It is possible to see most stuff, but not worth the trouble to take a picture. With the amount of stuff they have, something simply must stay outside. It is unfortunate it is the Beau, but what would you prefer? The Bolingbroke? The Battle?

As for the aircraft rusting away, it doesn't appear to be as bad as it sounds. I checked my "close-up" pictures (nose-to-tail shots taken with a 50 mm), and there doesn't appear to be any signs of severe deterioration. The museum has been careful to cover the cockpit windows with that silver light barrier material. All control surfaces appear to have been removed.

As for their plans to store the aircraft, I am sure this one (and the others stored outside) will be going indoors when the museum gets the new building. I don't know when that is supposed to happen. Most people can understand how slow government funding can be.

I have been getting the feeling that the National Aviation Musuem has been taking a beating in this thread. Although a government funded (and I assume run) organization, their collection, for the most part, is immaculate. Although the collection is not large, it must be ranked with the best in the world. They deserve a break considering their space restrictions. I only wish they gave more opportunities to volunteers.

If anyone is interested I hope to attend the open house this Monday. I'll try to get some close-up shots of the Beau this time. I don't have a scanner, but willing to swap a few prints if anyone is interested.

Regards,

Mike

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