Avro Vulcan B.2 XL426 maintained in ground running condition at London Southend Airport by the Vulcan Restoration Trust (VRT), is to be returned to the airport’s Hangar 6 later this summer.

XL426 previously occupied the building for a short period in 2017. However, a fire elsewhere at the airport meant the jet had to move out to make way for businesses made ‘homeless’ by the fire. Following productive discussions, VRT is now able to return its charge to the hangar’s protective environment.

Coupled with its current occupancy of Hangar 5, the Trust will soon have use of the whole two-hangar ‘block’, an area in excess of 4,500 square metres, on a lease likely to last either three or five years.

A considerable amount of work needs to be done within the new space before it is ready for the Vulcan. This includes roof repairs and electrical works, with walls and flooring earmarked for deep cleaning. VRT has launched the Vulcan XL426 Back to Hangar 6 Appeal to raise the £30,000 it needs to transform the hangar into a suitable facility to welcome visitors. The aim is to return XL426 to the building in time for its 60th birthday in August.