In my opinion ‘whinging’ is the only way those invested in certain fields of interest (rather than those with a superficial interest) can get the products that they want. The academics and the enthusiasts may represent a small proportion of the populist audience, but they are the ones who are willing to pay out for the DVDs, books and whatever other ancillary material is put out relating to the initial broadcast. The media are increasingly aware of this, hence things like the Lord of the Rings DVDs in ‘lite’ and ‘anorak’ editions.

I’ve never agreed with just tugging the forelock because a TV company has given us something that’s vaguely in the ballpark of what we’d really like. It’s perfectly possible to create a programme that works on multiple levels of interest and ability, just as it is with museum interpretation. Its just cheaper not to bother.

But you need to fire off your whinges to the production and broadcast companies for it to really count, and to bear in mind that you may well be ignored and fobbed off. Eventually though, something may come of it. Things do seem to have improved; the triumphalism of the old days has been somewhat moderated, and the 90s dumbing down is slowly lessening. I think.

Anyway, I’m at work; you ain’t seen me, roight?

Thanks for posting Johathan. Do feel free to stay!

Thank you James, I originally registered as I had a query from a member of the public relating to a piece of airframe, but managed to ID it before posting my request. (Turned out to be a piece of Ju88 bomb rack if you were wondering).

Interesting point re the practicality of reclaiming old aircraft alu. I wouldn’t know to be honest, but I have a feeling it would at least be economically difficult to do even if it is possible. I do understand where the thread starter was coming from, but tend to think that energies can be better spent in either maintaining the authenticity of static aircraft or in keeping the airworthy examples flying, even if they do eventually become 100% replica.

My take on the whole thorny issue of flying/non-flying is that there’s room for both. Museum aircraft are there for the mind, and the flyers are there for the spirit. If a high percentage of a flyer is historical, so much the better. I think both can serve as memoria to the dead and to veterans. But think how much less plane for your time and money you would get if you insisted on the melting down approach. I would say that I personally would rather that flying aircraft were new-builds or composites, but if they’ve been flying and been maintained as active aircraft for a time already, why not keep them flying. Unless they are one of only a handful left in the world either static or flying, in which case lets get that warbird cotton wool out!