I just recently watched a copy of Jeremy Clarkson’s Extreme Machines on video and he was taken in the back seat of a P-51D around Reno. He was narrating as it was blasting around the course at low level and high-speed and bitterly complaining about the comfort, noise and I also reckon he was a little scared!!
Anyway, to my question.
We all see and here (and love, BTW) watching Spits, P-51’s. P-40s, (also La-9s !!) and marvelling at their beauty, grace, poise and wonderful noises they’re making.
Is that experience somewhat nicer than actually going for a blast in one?
(Mainly talking about 2-seater Spits, P-51’s etc)
What you peoples think?
(Given half the chance, I wouldn’t pass up a ride in the back of a P-51):D
By: Jorgo - 14th February 2004 at 08:54
Turbo NZ,
The Wanaka based Mustang also has a back seat, and as far as I know is still taking up pax. ‘Miss Torque’ is worthy of saving some cash for. I think she used to cost $2000 for 20mins, but that was a few years ago.
By: Kenneth - 13th February 2004 at 21:16
I flew as a passenger in the Scandinavian Historic Flight’s P-51D many years ago. It was incredibly noisy and rather cramped, but absolutely gorgeous. Comparing such an experience with seeing one from the ground is like comparing apples and bananas.
Does any one know whether WWII pilots got noice-induced hearing problems from flying these aircraft (seriously; I found the noise level almost painful without a modern headset)?
By: davski - 13th February 2004 at 14:12
I flew with Rod Dean in “Sunny VIII” many years ago – first flight in anything at all let alone a warbird! Loved every second of it… low level is awesome and the noise is unbelievable – I took my headphones off when we taxied in and almost burst my ear drums! Love to do it all over again… good luck, hope you get your flight!
By: Super Guppy - 13th February 2004 at 13:38
Turbo NZ ,
If you would like to experience warbird flying relatively locally , the P-40 at Ardmore (ZK-CAG) does give passenger rides on occasions. My flight was arranged through a British aviation tour group , but if you are interested , the aircraft is operated by a company called Pioneer Aero Restoration. Their address is :-
458 Corsair Lane, Ardmore Airport, Papakura, Auckland.
There are some pictures of it (and other NZ P-40s) here :-
By: DazDaMan - 13th February 2004 at 12:12
You could always save up for a Spitfire flight – although you have a bit of a waiting list if you want to go up with Carolyn Grace! 🙁
By: Black Knight - 13th February 2004 at 11:35
I agree with YAK 11. Actually experiencing it is far greater than watching it.
By: Nermal - 13th February 2004 at 09:50
Originally posted by turbo_NZ
Every flight ??????How many times can you go up in a P-51 in your lifetime???
🙂
Happened quite alot in WWII… – Nermal
By: turbo_NZ - 13th February 2004 at 02:09
posted by Hatton
….or…..become Yak 11 fan’s new best friend?
Every flight ??????
How many times can you go up in a P-51 in your lifetime???
🙂
By: Hatton - 13th February 2004 at 00:45
Originally posted by turbo_NZ
mmm,…I’d better start saving then…:D
….or…..become Yak 11 fan’s new best friend? 🙂
By: turbo_NZ - 13th February 2004 at 00:29
posted by Yak 11 Fan
Every flight in a P51 is an absolute buzz, it’s every bit and more than I ever thought it would be. Pulling 4g in a flyby is an awesome experience. You won’t be disappointed.
mmm,…I’d better start saving then…:D
By: Yak 11 Fan - 13th February 2004 at 00:14
Re: Question about going for a ride in a warbird
Originally posted by turbo_NZ
We all see and here (and love, BTW) watching Spits, P-51’s. P-40s, (also La-9s !!) and marvelling at their beauty, grace, poise and wonderful noises they’re making.
Is that experience somewhat nicer than actually going for a blast in one?
Every flight in a P51 is an absolute buzz, it’s every bit and more than I ever thought it would be. Pulling 4g in a flyby is an awesome experience. You won’t be disappointed.
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February 13, 2004 at 12:07 am