A few more airshow pics to finish the night off

I have just looked out an article from the NZ Herald newspaper from the 2nd of November 1996. It is about the Confederate Air Force Beech 18. The author Lawrence Watt states:

“The Royal New Zealand Air Force assembled three twin-engined Beeches from American kitsets in the Second World War. One transported the American commander-in-chief, Vice-Admiral R.L. Ghormley, and his staff (including a future United States president Lyndon Johnston). Another plane was used by the American Legation. The third was used for aerial mapping and is now at the Museum of Transport and Technology (Motat).
Ghormley’s plane apparently disappeared when Vice-Admiral Halsey took over in late 1942. The embassy’s Beech lasted until 1957.”

I’m not sure where I read that it was in the colours of Macarthur’s transport, but I know I read it. Must have been a misleading piece though. And it isn’t the original, just in the scheme of Ghormley’s plane. So that clears that up.

Dave
All being well will get to “wave” at two 18’s and a 17 at the same event this year!!!
OAW

Well done Arm Waver, I was wondering who would spot that deliberate mistake first! Just seeing if you all are paying attention. LOL

Thanks for correcting me, you are quite right.

That aircraft is the personal aircraft used in New Zealand during the war by General McArthur if I recall correctly, and the scheme is genuine. Something like that anyway. Someone will no doubt correct me.

Great photos indeed Dave.
The Beech is an 18 not a 17 though (the 17 is a Staggerwing) An interesting scheme on it.
OAW:)

Dave, thanks to your excellent pics it looks like we Kiwi’s are taking over this thread (very appropriate as its Wanaka time)

As soon as I figure out how to attach a pic will try and post afew also !

Beech

Great Airshow, that Hamilton one !

I had a ride in the mighty Cat at Palmerston a few years later, great stuff, sort of like flying in your living room !

Beech 17

cat nose art

cat

Cat

Harvards in formation over the Cat

Catalina arriving at Hamilton

Catalina arriving at Matamata

Moth Minor in its genuine wartime RNZAF scheme

Warbirds Devon

NZ Warbirds Beaver in RNZAF Antarctic scheme