The team recently revealed it was hoping to achieve several key tasks this summer – culminating in a high speed taxi run. Before this the aircraft was scheduled to undergo full power engine trials, following successful tests on brakes and landing gear. The main tyres were also set to be replaced.

The 1954-built aircraft has been in the US since 1998, latterly flying as N40UP with Power Inc of Lakeport, California. Following withdrawal from flight, it has remained grounded at Lakeport, still wearing the distinctive ‘raspberry ripple’ scheme that it was adorned with in its previous Royal Aircraft Establishment guise. Acquired by new owner John Fisher in 2020, his Canberra USA organisation was formed with the exciting aim of restoring the charismatic British jet to flying status.