RNAS Yeovilton – RNHF 40th display – 12 fots

A few from a sunny Yeovilton from last Saturday… you would have thought it was an Island judging by the amount of flood water nearby!
When the water is level with the bottom of your car doors, you know it’s time to stop and rethink the route!

2012 marks the 40th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Navy Historic Flight (RNHF) at RNAS Yeovilton, and to celebrate a small flying display was held at RNAS Yeovilton for the enjoyment of ex and current RNHF personnel.

(1) First up was the Skyraider, flown by ex-RNHF pilot and later its CO Lt. Cdr. John Beattie.

(2) Joining him for take-off was the current RNHF T.20 VX281 G-RNHF, flown as always by Lt. Cdr. Chris Gotke RN.

(3) Lining up for a pairs split departure on cross runway 04, an unusual and rare occurrence.

(4 and 5) Rolling.

(6) The two cabs formed up to perform some flypasts, before breaking off into their individual routines to the crowd located on the north-side of the airfield.
In hindsight, choosing to view from that side of the airfield would have been a better proposition to view the flying displays.

(7) Display complete, the Skyraider returned to Runway 04 in front of us, cue red traffic lights.

(8) VX281 then made its re-appearance, coming in fast and as sweet sounding as all the Centaurus Furies do.

(9) After yet another superb display, the Fury landed.

(10) One of the founder members of the RNHF, closed the short period of display flying.

(11) Before it too landed…

(12) …and was swiftly taxied back to the RNHF hangar where it was put to bed with the Fury by the RNHF engineers.

Comments welcome, and thanks to Lewis, Tony and Nick for the company.