Airworthy Fouga Zephyr?

Thanks for the reply Fouga.

Thanks for the reply Fouga.

Fouga 23 – In the flying pic i posted the arrester hook is down in what looks like a flyby. I always thought it was a drop down arrangement that could only be re-locked in the up position after landing. So are they hydraulically operated, or maybe have some sort of cable retraction system? Or was this a landing using an airfield arrester system maybe?

Well, my specialisation is the Magister. I’m not so familiar with the Zéphir as it is a vastly different airframe. But from what I remember it is indeed a drop down arrangement. I do not remember it having a retraction mechanism. The Zéphir is quite a rare bird. Only France operated them and only around 30 were built (As opposed to over 900 Magisters).

Thanks for posting that picture Aviation Ancien! Had the pleasure of flying with Jack. Always an experience 😀

If you’ll forgive the fact that they are Magisters, rather than Zephyrs, as well as the photo quality, I think that you’ll find that they come better as quartets!

These are the Patrouille Tranchant at Cholet last year – no, sorry, in 2010!

Thanks CIRCUS 6. Have always liked both types, but the longer stroke undercart on the aeronavale Zephyr gives it a slightly better ‘stance’ in my opinion.

Fouga 23 – In the flying pic i posted the arrester hook is down in what looks like a flyby. I always thought it was a drop down arrangement that could only be re-locked in the up position after landing. So are they hydraulically operated, or maybe have some sort of cable retraction system? Or was this a landing using an airfield arrester system maybe?

That and the Magister are cracking looking aircraft, good topic Wyvernfan.

Thanks. Looks to be two different aircraft from the pics and youtube clip. Would love to see one come to the UK for an airshow, such as Yeovilton.

I don’t know the current status of the Zéphirs, but this one is still flying. i believe there is a second airworthy example. Not sure though.

Doh… think i’ve just found the answer to my own question. Found this from only six months ago

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEorCzR1cCQ