I think there is absolutely no chance that BA will offer any support at all – financial or otherwise. They don’t give a d@mn about British aviation. They have been pushing the CAA for a long while to end the so-called “subsidy” of GA by the airlines – which means we don’t get to pay for air traffic services if not flying IFR. Never mind that the airlines don’t pay tax on fuel… and have all sorts of other tax advantages. They have also said publically that they are not concerned if GA here training goes to the wall. They are quite happy to source their future ATPLs from anywhere.
One only has to look at the case of Sally B. Who saw a magnificent PR opportunity – especially with potential passengers from the States? Richard Branson. For a few thousands in sponsorship (doubtless tax-deductible) he has made a lot of friends.
What does BA stand for now? Dirty tricks, job cuts, and being fiercely anti-GA. It doesn’t deserve to be regarded as our National carrier. It’s management doesn’t know the meaning of the word PR.
The RAF Museum has its hands tied to some extent by having the free admissions policy. Duxford charges admission. It would be interesting to see what difference that makes to acquisitions and maintaining the respective collections. Duxford’s airliners are, I belieive, owned and looked after by volunteers. I suppose the same could possibly be encouraged at Cosford, though setting up the organisational infrastructure at short notice would be difficult.
As always, these things are left to drift until it is almost too late to retrieve matters. This issue should have been addressed years ago as part of the long term development plans for the site.
YR
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