As it happens BM, against all the odds, there are very serious and advanced talks between the CAA and ‘industry’ representatives (HAA and others) to promote ‘Venture aviation’ along the lines of Part 115 of the New Zealand regulatory framework, whereby you can now pay for rides in Spits, P40’s, Mustangs etc, and this was seen to happen at Wanaka this year.

This is not ‘bar talk’ or ‘blue sky thinking’, but a rapidly advancing dialogue which could reasonably see warbird rides in B.17, Catalina and fighters within 24 months or less.
There are a lot of changes presently going on in the CAA, where change has been forced upon them, and new staff appointments have brought with them new attitudes and a willingness to promote Venture aviation within the UK.

The sad Mustang loss in Texas will not help this momentum, but those parties promoting these changes are very motivated to make it happen, and the omens are very promising.

Prop strike I am fully aware of the motions that are happening and have Ben party to the proposals. However even if these talks come to fruision, which I do hope they do, they will not allow for you to drop into an airfield in your Stearman or Tiger Moth and set up your stall to sell rides, nor should they. The aircraft that can be used for ” air experience” is the main thrust, some form of AOC operation will still be required.