I was told at a BBMF lecture a few years ago that the C/O could pretty much choose the scheme but it had to be one from a 100 op Lanc. This was around 5-6 years ago so things may have changed since then.

The colour schemes are decided by a few key members of BBMF, and passed for approval by the OC. Generally, there is some foresight to determine upcoming anniversaries that the aircraft will wear whilst in the scheme, then after that, something ‘interesting’. It’s a little more tricky with the Mk XIX’s, and the Dakota, which have all worn about the most interesting of the schemes feasible for their type. I longed for the Mk XVI to be in a postwar silver scheme, but was overruled by the OC at the time, saying a wartime scheme would be more apt. It wasn’t too much later that the Mk IX wore that horrid silver scheme in lieu of the natural metal scheme it should have had. Politics 😉

That’s correct Mike, and now they use one at Duxford. For the 10 hour conversion (depending on the pilot), it’s really not worth having an expensive machine like a Harvard on the books, compared to the much more rudimentary Chippy.

I’ve liked that tower for 25 years, and always imagined living in it! Oh to win the lottery NOW!

These threads make me laugh! It will NEVER EVER HAPPEN. Who in their right mind would shoulder the RISK????? The manufacturers aren’t interested, and they NEED to provide support. No amount of money will make it happen.

That was really good, though it definitely plucked the old nostalgia gland. When were the buildings demolished? And is the area developed now?

Before you slate the owner too much, at least he saved them, Der. If they hadn’t found buyers, they’d have been smelted years ago! So dig deep into your pockets and get them repatriated…

And you are basing this on what exactly?

He’s a naysayer Paul. Leave him to his darkened room.

I’ll say it one last time. If you do not like Chabbert, email Jane Larcombe at The Fighter Collection. She can directly influence his presence, or lack thereof. Stop whittling on like a load of (stereotypical) old women.

Piston (your chips).