Mark,

I’m sure the aircrew would be able to give you a more definitive answer than myself, but I believe that it will remain the same as before, at around 120kts.

As you probably know, the runway is split into two seperate tracks at Brunty, and as you saw, this is done around the mid point, with temporary barriers. We have to move these also when we take 558 down to the running pan. Obviously, these will all be cleared, and the runway fully swept and ‘fod plodded’ before 558 will be using it!!

Firebird,

I believe that the HLF issue is more about protecting 558 from wearing a ‘Red Bull’ style livery, although personally, I’d happily accept that to see 558 back in the air again! 😀 I believe that there is indeed scope for other authentic colour schemes to be worn, but the issue with this is, as ever, cost. I was a little surprised myself initially at the figures, but as it was explained to me by the painters, I could begin to see where the money was going. Couple that with the engineering costs, and even if it does happen, it won’t be happening for a few years yet!!

Flipflopman