Hi all
Just a small selection of shots from this weekend’s show at Omaka Aerodrome, Blenheim, NZ. Some real treats such as the debut of Brendon Deere’s Mk.IXc Spitfire, and two original WW1 biplanes: the Be2f and the Avro 504K. Another star attraction was the former gate guard Bristol Freighter, which taxied around the field under its own power for the first time in two decades. An incredible sound! The full-scale Junkers Ju87 replica was back in one piece, and hopefully will be fitted with a Jaguar V12 for the next show in 2011.
By: OHOPE - 2nd May 2009 at 02:32
I believe the other Avro 504 was unfortunately parked in a tree not too long ago , but I am sure it will be on the mend .
By: Propstrike - 1st May 2009 at 22:49
Great shots!
Shame about that pesky bit of dust.
Dust!? That’s a bleedin’ asteroid ! 😀
By: Anark - 16th April 2009 at 00:01
Great shots!
Shame about that pesky bit of dust.
By: JonL - 15th April 2009 at 07:44
Great Pics by the way. Loving the BE2, i think its an E.
More info here
http://thevintageaviator.co.nz/projects/be-2/be2f-restoration
By: Zac Yates - 14th April 2009 at 06:57
ZK-BFR/A1325 is a Be2f, with its original RAF1A up front. A surprisingly quiet machine! It was a real treat to see her on the field, I’d love to fly her. For those who hadn’t guessed, the cockpit shot in my first post is of ZK-BFR’s rear cockpit.
Here’s a link to YouTube, a video of the Be flying on Sunday.
And thanks Ryan, the 504K is indeed original, powered by a Gnome Monosupape – incidentally one of three engines fitted to her over her original lifetime. I also thought it was the AJD-built replica (which unfortunately met a tree in flight last year) due to the scheme, but one of the show pilots confirmed for me it was the original machine. The restoration was a 26-year labour of love for renowned restorer Stuart Tantrum, who flew her over the weekend. A stunning sight, and sound!
The Bristol is ZK-CPT, longtime gate guard for the local aero club. It arrived at the field in 1986 and hadn’t moved under her own power since then. It was only a year ago that the taxi project was initiated, a tribute to Al Marshall and his dedicated team of volunteers. I don’t think she served with the RNZAF, some research shows her to be ex G-41-366/EC-AHI/EC-WHI/G-AMRR.
The Ju87 was built for the 2003 airshow, but unfortunately made an unplanned, unmanned flight soon after due to high winds. A very hardworking team set about returning her to one piece, and we can expect to see a Jaguar V12 fitted to make her taxiable.
By: The Blue Max - 13th April 2009 at 21:21
Blue Max, its an original 504 with an amazing NZ history. Some of the most famous names in early NZ aviation history are recorded in the aircraft logs which are still with her to this day. It was the public debut and a wonderful sight to see along with the BE2 as well.
Thanks Dragonfly, looks loverly. My mistake as it looks just like the ADJ built example that was exported a few years ago.
The BE2 is a fantastic sight as well 🙂
By: DragonflyDH90 - 13th April 2009 at 21:04
Blue Max, its an original 504 with an amazing NZ history. Some of the most famous names in early NZ aviation history are recorded in the aircraft logs which are still with her to this day. It was the public debut and a wonderful sight to see along with the BE2 as well.
By: Postfade - 13th April 2009 at 18:58
Thanks for the great photos.
What’s the history of the Bristol freighter? Is it ex RNZAF?
I remember that sound still.
David T.
By: The Blue Max - 13th April 2009 at 11:06
Isnt the 504 the very nice replica built here in the UK powered by a Warner Scarab rather than an original??. Or has it been re engined with a rotary?
Great Pics by the way. Loving the BE2, i think its an E.
Whats the info on the Ju 87 ??
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April 13, 2009 at 5:54 am