WIX Archives
Re: Roving ML417 and others (longish)
Posted by Julian on Tue Dec 11, 2001 08:29:48 AM
In reply top Roving ML417 and others (longish) posted by Graham Orphan on Tue Dec 11, 2001 08:00:32 AM
I have to agree with Graham. Althought it's sad to wave ML417 goodbye, there are a number of other MkIXs flying in the UK, and I think we can rest assured that Stephen Grey will invest wisely in the restoration of his other, rarer treasures, or perhaps in acquiring a new and unique shape for European skies. And yes, a razorback Jug would be lovely!
I think the saddest trading from the UK point of view is in Sea Furies. Currently we are left with only John Bradshaw's actually airworthy, with apparently little chance of seeing it fly. Despite appearances, TFC's must still be a little way off flying again, the RNHF's needs a new engine I believe, no doubt the sad Baby Gorilla will end up being rebuilt in the US of an American customer (and with a R3350) and all other recent fliers have long since deserted these shores. Will there be a Sea Fury regularly on the show circuit in Europe in 2002?
But as long as it's not a one way trade, keep it going - twenty years ago I'd never have imagined seeing such a variety of exotica in the UK - and something new every year!
I think another valid point, already made by someone else on this site is that the visit to the UK this summer by the F3Fs - and that by OFMC aircraft to Wanaka in the past - proves that "cultural exchanges" between collections are feasible, and can increase further the variety of types visible to the enthusiast anywhere in the world.
Cheers
Julian