First, some clarification…

I believe in safety when flying warbirds. Modern helmets don’t offer much protection in a crash (they’re pretty light weight when compared to a motorcycle or auto racing helmet), but they do keep you (usually) from passing out if your head bangs into the side of the canopy. Thanks to MexBob for showing how important they can be.

Oxygen masks. Most warbird pilots are now wearing them all the time, even at low altitudes. Fire or fumes in the cockpit can put a man down very quickly. And with an engine fire opening the cockpit can lead to sucking fire and smoke right in with you. So, a mask is a very good thing.

I have read all the roll over accident reports with the Sea Fury. I don’t believe a helmet, or lack thereof would have saved any of the pilots. Removing the rollover plate behind the pilot probably did contribute, and several Sea Fury owners are considering going back to the single place configuration. As much as I would hate to loose the jump seat, this is something I’m looking at.

Flying has certain risks, such as flying around with the rollover plate removed. I would like to get a vintage helmet setup for some air to air photos, not everyday use. But, I appreciate the comments about safety and “gearing” up. I remember being rather embarassed when I first started flying the T-28 and wearing all this stuff. Seemed silly, as nobody bothers when flying a Pitts or Decathalon. I don’t think it silly anymore.

Thanks for your comments,

Steve

Thanks for the info Arthur. I will be flying into Hong Kong, then spending some time touring factories in the Guangzhou provence.

Probably won’t have much time for sight seeing in China, but that’s what England is for.

And yes Rob, t-shirts come in all sizes.

Steve
the REAL one…

I’ve got my map and I’m starting to plan my route. Andy in Beds has convinced me to rent a car so I can get around easier than taking the train.

I was telling Andy and James K about the last time I went to Duxford, in 1996. Rode the train to Cambridge then took a taxi out to the airfield for the day. Well, when it was time to leave I couldn’t find a taxi, so I decided to walk. Remember the scene in “12 O’Clock High” when the American peddles up to the airfield? Well, I thought it would be easy so I set off.

Never been so lost in all my life. It’s a miracle I’m still not wandering around out there. Almost slept in a church. Never again.

So, Duxford is definately on the list (last time I was there the new 8th AF wing wasn’t even started).

The Mossie museum sounds good. Any other suggestions? Yeovilton is quite a drive, but maybe worth the effort.

And of course, Shuttleworth on the 15th. Hope to see you there.