Aeroplane Monthly September 2013

Since the last issue of Aeroplane went to press it has been an incredible month! We have been able to bring you the first and exclusive air-to-airs of the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Hawker Hurricane IIc PZ865 in its new South East Asia Command paint scheme, there was an amazing formation of a de Havilland Mosquito and Avro Lancaster in Canada, and then we had the ever-popular Flying Legends Air Show at IWM Duxford. During Flying Legends the sight of the world’s only two airworthy Gloster Gladiators was worth the trip alone. But add to that the former Alpine Fighter Collection Hurricane making its UK air show debut, plus many other highlights, including the worldwide debut of the Bremont Horsemen’s three-ship close-formation Spitfire display, and it was no wonder the event was receiving a great deal of praise from its many visitors straight away. It also marked the “retirement” of The Fighter Collection’s Stephen Grey from major air show appearances. In his welcome address in the programme, Stephen commented: “Shed not a tear for me as I shall continue to fl y for fun, but not at major displays. The Fighter Collection will continue to care for these astonishing historic aircraft and for their home at IWM Duxford. I shall continue to assist where and whilst I can, in the hangar, on the ground and in the crowd, enjoying your company and looking up at those wonderful men in their flying machines.” Stephen is well-known for his “joker” display in the Grumman Bearcat as the “Balbo” finale forms up, however this year’s Flying Legends featured a new “joker” in the form of Nick Grey flying TFC’s Gladiator II N5903. This was a sight to behold, with the sun by then perfectly positioned for photography, and the aircraft a true “gem”. If only every month could be like last month!