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OFMC News
Posted by Benjamin Gilbert on Fri Feb 01, 2002 01:46:50 PM
In reply top null posted by null on null
PRESS RELEASE 23rd January 2002
Hangar News
The P40 Kittyhawk and the Corsair have returned from the RAF Cranwell paint shop in their new colours. The Spitfire and Mustang are nearing the end of their winter maintenance programmes and will go for re-painting in mid-February. A photo shoot is planned for late March or early April when all 4 of the Breitling Fighters will be ready for the season.
The L39 Albatros G-OTAF is currently on the market as is Hunter T8 G-BWGL. MiG 17 G-BWUF, which was sold last year, will be departing by road early February.
The La9 airframe is nearing completion with Pioneer Aero Restorations in New Zealand and the engine is almost ready for the test bed in the Czech Republic. We are hoping that the aircraft will be airborne in time for the Wanaka Airshow at the end of March.
The Yak 3 restoration continues at the Fighter Collection, and we hope to be flight-testing this summer.
A late addition to the OFMC fleet, Stearman G-BTGA, which arrived at Duxford late April 2001, left in December bound for New Zealand.
The engineering team at OFMC has itself had an overhaul recently. Former Chief Engineer Roger Shepherd is now based at our workshop north of Duxford. Roger will focus on engine overhauls starting with a Merlin, as well as a Pratt & Whitney for the Corsair. In addition he will be monitoring the La9 engine rebuild and component rebuilds for the whole fleet.
Welcome to Hugh Jones, who has joined us as Chief Engineer. Mike Fenton remains in his role as Deputy Chief Engineer.
We have said farewell to John Smyth and Rob Turpin, who left earlier in the winter. We wish them good luck in the future.
Display Programme
At the time of going to Press we are still discussing the 2002 display schedule with Breitling and will publish the first draft onto the website as soon as possible.
Other News
Air New Zealand Captain Keith Skilling has had his leave confirmed and will be returning to the UK to fly as part of the Breitling Fighter Team. Thank you Air New Zealand!!
For further information, please contact Laura Wetton, Operations Manager on 01223 836 705.