Yes, you’re right, but you are thinking short term.

For the sake of argument, lets suggest that for whatever reason, we wake up on Monday morning, and the flying of all warbirds has been prohibited across the world.

What happens to the value – both in terms of monetary AND historic value.

For a researcher, which is now all they are useful for, the unrestored aircraft is king. A pampered restored aircraft, with leather seats and fluffy dice comes right at the bottom of the pile.

There have been so many restored aircraft as a result of a surplus of aircraft over and above that required for museum use. What happens to them when they can no longer fly (for whatever reason)? There is still a surplus…

Look at the number of Hunters, JP’s and similar that have entered preservation but are now starting to dwindle as it is no longer worth maintaining them in flightworthy condition, or indeed restoring them.

Hey, I’m being devils advocate here. I sit on both sides of the fence, but it is worth considering!

Bruce