UK Aviation Museum News – Page 8

Gyrocopters Saved at Newark

Gyrocopter at Newark Air Museum

A Campbell-Bensen B.8M gyrocopter, G-ASNY that has been on loan at the Newark Air Museum (NAM) for more than fifteen (15) years was recently bequeathed to NAM in the will of the late gyrocopter collector, Roger Light. This complete airframe has been displayed in Hangar 1 since it arrived at the museum in April 2009.

Additional actions by the museum trustees and its volunteers has also safeguarded a significant collection of other gyrocopter airframe structures, engines, parts and assorted spares.

During several visits to north-west England, the items have been carefully gathered together and moved into storage at the museum’s site in eastern Nottinghamshire, close to the county border with Lincolnshire.

Work is already underway to sort the items out and to produce an inventory of what has been recovered. All items are in a good condition and early indications suggest that there are at least two nearly complete machines, with three additional main-frame structures.

The NAM trustees have agreed with the executor of the Roger Light Estate that eventually these gyrocopters should be made available for disposal to other suitable aviation collections across the UK.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

Second World War Week at RAF Museum London

RAF Museum London

25 May – 02 June 2024

Travel back in time with the RAF Museum London this May Half-Term with a range of family activities. Discover all about the RAF and life during the 1940s, culminating in our D-Day Weekend.

D-Day, The RAF Story: The Tour

For the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landing, the RAF Museum will be offering a tour for a limited time only, telling the story of the role of the RAF during the D-Day Operations.
Explore the varied roles of the RAF during D-Day, from bombing to reconnaissance and logistics. See this story come to live in the Museum’s Hangars 3, 4, 5 among iconic aircraft such as the Avro Lancaster, the Handley Page Halifax and the de Havilland Mosquito. Delivered by our expert volunteer tours guides; they will meet you by the nose of the Lancaster at your tour time.

Tickets: £10.00
Location: Hangars 345
Date: Sunday 26 May, Tuesday 28 May, Thursday 30 May, Saturday 1 June, Wednesday 5 June and Thursday 6 June.
Timings: 30 min timeslots available 11:00am to 1:00pm then 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Recommended Age: 8+

Aircraft Access: Lockheed Hudson

This is the opportunity to fully experience the aircraft that bravely carried into and out of Nazi occupied Europe.
Although often a forgotten hero of WWII, visitors will be privileged to gain exclusive access to the first Allied aircraft to capture a U-boat, be equipped with airborne lifeboats and shoot down an enemy whilst operating form the British Isles.

Tickets: £5.00
Location: Hangars 345
Date: Saturday 25th, Monday 27th and Wednesday 29th of May
Timings: 15 min timeslots available 11:00am to 1:00pm then 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Recommended Age: 8+

Audio Story WW2 Trail

Embark on an exciting journey through aviation history with the RAF Museum’s brand new trail.

Meet Woof Commander Antis the Dog and Flight Lieutenant Percy the Parachuting Penguin!

Enchanting narration interspersed with the hum of engines and the buzz of crucial radio chatter will guide visitors as they learn of the tales of the brave men, women and animals who made the difference in Britain’s finest hour.

This audio trail promises an accessible experience that transcends anything you’ve heard before. All you will need you will need to access this journey to the pass is your own smart device, headphones and internet access.

What we want to know most is are you Team Antis or a Team Percy? Make sure you let everyone know who is your favourite during your visit!

Tickets: FREE
Location: Hangars 345
Date: Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June
Timings: Drop-in throughout the day, just scan the QR code and go!
Recommended Age: 4+

www.rafmuseum.org.uk/london/

East Midlands Aeropark Aviation Museum – Late Evening Openings for 2024

East Midlands Aeropark

During the year the Aeropark holds a number of events where subject to availability we open up the cockpits of our aircraft in order that visitors can view the inside and in certain of the aircraft actually have the opportunity to get inside the aircraft and/or cockpits.

The late evening opening events will also see some of our aircraft lit up for the chance of a great photo opportunity and to also view movements at the airport later in the day including possible movement of cargo aircraft.

http://www.eastmidlandsaeropark.org/aeropark-events.html

Objects gifted to Newark by the RAF Museum

Yellow Sun at Newark

Following a short meeting on 9th April 2024, the ownership title of several objects that had been on long-term loan from the Royal Air Force Museum (RAFM), were formally transferred over to the Newark Air Museum [NAM].

These items comprised of: A Rolls-Royce R.B.108 engine and jet pipe; a Yellow Sun bomb casing; and a Fireflash Missile and trolley. Some of these items have been displayed at NAM’s site in eastern Nottinghamshire, close to the border with Lincolnshire, for more than fifteen years.

The generous donation was made as part of ongoing discussions between the two organisations, about a range of subjects. It follows a similar donation of the Lockheed TriStar simulator from the RAFM, back in autumn 2015, which is now displayed in Hangar 2 at the museum.

“The museum trustees are grateful to the RAF Museum for donating these objects to the museum,” commented Newark Air Museum Trustee, Colin Savill. He concluded, “Such donations illustrate the benefits of our Accredited Museum status, and we look forward to the possibility of working with the Royal Air Force Museum to explore similar loans and donations in the future.”

An additional comment has also been made by Dr Harry Raffal, Head of Collections and Research, RAF Museum. “The Royal Air Force Museum is proud to be gifting these objects to Newark Air Museum with the knowledge that we are sharing the RAF story and making it more accessible to people across the country. We look forward to continuing to develop our relationship and working together to inspire new generations.”

www.newarkairmuseum.org

Newark Air Museum Outdoor Aeroboot Aviation & Avionics Sale

Newark Aeroboot

Saturday 13th April, 2024

The next Newark Air Museum Outdoor Aeroboot / Aerojumble Sale at the museum’s site in eastern Nottinghamshire takes place on Saturday 13th April, 2024. This charity fund raising event has attracted interest from a wide range of sellers across the UK and is taking place alongside the quarterly meeting of Aviation Heritage UK (formerly known as BAPC).

The funds that the museum raises from organising the event will be used to support the development of facilities at its Gateway Aviation Site, which is located in eastern Nottinghamshire close to the Lincolnshire border.

More than thirty (30) sellers, who come from around the UK have pre-booked selling spaces on the wide expanses of our Southfield Site, close to the aircraft display line and the museum café.

Buyers / visitors who attend this fund raising event will have the opportunity to search through a varied selection of aviation and avionic items: including books, paintings, prints, DVDs, plastic kits, die-cast models, clothing, radio equipment and a wide range of aircraft parts.

Normal museum admission rates will apply: Adults £11.00, Over 65s £10.00, Children £5.50 and Family ticket [2 adults & 3 children] £30.00.

The museum opening times will be 09.00 to 17.00 hours; with the sale taking place between 09.00 and 14.00 hours; to get the best bargains we suggest that you get there early.

Further details are available on the Events Page of the museum website www.newarkairmuseum.org or by telephoning 01636 707170.

Newark Air Museum Chinook Update

Newark Air Museum Chinook

Following the arrival of BV Chinook HC.1, ZA717 from RAF Cranwell back in February 2018 Newark Air Museum became the first Accredited Independent museum in the UK to acquire and display a Royal Air Force (RAF) registered Chinook helicopter.

Since its arrival the museum staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to acquire missing airframe panels and structures from many normal disposal sources, including the original manufacturer.

Sadly, these efforts have been to no avail, so the museum’s resourceful volunteers have now started to fabricate missing and damaged items for the nose section and side sponsons on this unique Chinook rebuild project.

The majority of the damage that is being repaired was caused during a non-fatal flying incident on 25th July, 1989 that saw ZA717 ‘written-off’ at RAF Mount Pleasant, in the Falkland Islands. Having been transported back to the UK, ZA717 was later used at RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire to train Aircrew Loadmasters in slinging techniques and load securing methods.
These ongoing repair and restoration works will soon be more visible as the museum is planning to reposition the Chinook and nearby Puma XW208 helicopter, to make them both more accessible. This move will also benefit the museum’s long-term plan to use ZA717 as an interactive education space / resource for visiting groups of school children, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and Air Training Corps (ATC) cadets.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

Cleaners embark on a high-flying mission!

Cleaning at RAF Museum Midlands

When the suspended aircraft at the Royal Air Force Museum Midlands need a spring clean, it calls for a specialist team of dustbusters with a head for heights to carry out the work!

Suspended from the ceiling, up to 100ft in the air, eight aircraft including a Vulcan bomber, will all be given a light dusting this week as part of the annual clean and inspection. Other aircraft being spruced up include a Canberra, Meteor, Sabre, Hunter, Lightning, Dakota and Javelin.

Strapped into harnesses and with nerves of steel, the specialist cleaning team climb the rafters of the building and abseil down to access the aircraft. No cleaning solutions are used on the aircraft, just a good dusting using large soft fibre mops. In addition to cleaning the aircraft, the team will also be inspecting the suspension cables supporting the aircraft in their flying display positions.

Tom Hopkins, Curator at RAF Museum Midlands said:
‘The Museums commitment to preserving objects within our collection extends beyond mere display. It involves each aircraft and vehicle undergoing a regular inspection by our skilled Technicians and Volunteers. However, when it comes to the aircraft suspended from the ceiling of our National Cold War Exhibition, a unique challenge emerges. These iconic aircraft, reach up to 100 feet in places, and navigating such dizzying heights requires a specialist team equipped with the necessary skills and equipment.’

During the clean the Museum will remain open to visitors who can see the high-flying team from Rappel, industrial rope access specialists, in action.

The Museum’s National Cold War Exhibition features 19 aircraft, tanks, vehicles, models and memorabilia, and is the only place in the world where people can view all three British V-Bombers, the Vulcan, Victor and Valiant, together and under one roof.

The Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free. Pre-book your arrival time online at www.rafmuseum.org/midlands.

Restoration Outlook at Newark Air Museum

Newark Jaguar

During 2023 volunteers at Newark Air Museum logged in excess of 18,300 (eighteen thousand and three hundred) hours of working on a host of projects around the museum’s sixteen-acre site in north eastern Nottinghamshire.

In 2024 the museum trustees hope to harness similar levels of dedication and support to continue with similar restoration work and associated repainting projects.

High on the priority list will be continued work on Avro Shackleton, WR977, to carry on from the work on the aircraft’s nose section that was completed in autumn 2023. Some preparatory work had already taken place on the upper fuselage surfaces in the mid and rear sections of the aircraft.

On the sister Avro airframe, Vulcan, XM594, some additional structural repairs and maintenance repairs will continue, with the aim of keeping the airframe in a good overall condition, both externally and internally.

As the better weather arrives work will recommence on the repainting of the MiG-23; whilst structural repairs will continue on nose section of Chinook, ZA717; and progress will continue with the rebuild of the Auster AOP9.

A number of new repainting projects are also scheduled to start. This will include the application of distinctive 92 Squadron markings to Hunter T7. Currently it is marked as XX467, however it entered RAF service as XL605 and was part of the Blue Diamonds Display Team, it will wear these markings. Jaguar T2, XX829 will be repainted in a grey/green camouflage scheme, which the airframe wore during its early service with 54 Squadron. Both airframes have recently been cleaned in preparation for their repainting.

www.newarkairmuseum.org

RAF Museum supports National Lottery Open Week #ThanksToYou campaign

RAF Museum Flight Simulator

• The National Lottery Open Week runs 9-17 March 2024
• Any National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game can be used to unlock offers
• The RAF Museum is offering lottery players two for one on Flight Simulator and 4D Theatre rides, plus 10% off in the Museum shop and restaurant

This March, The National Lottery, in its 30th year, will once again be saying thank you to players for the £30 million they raise for good causes every week, with the National Lottery Open Week. The focus this year is on encouraging the nation to try something new, by offering an array of free entry and special offers at hundreds of National Lottery funded venues across the UK.

From Saturday 9 to Sunday 17 March, anyone with a valid online or retail National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game can enjoy a low-cost day out thanks to special offers at hundreds of National Lottery-funded venues and attractions, including the RAF Museum in both London and the Midlands.

Visit the RAF Museum this National Lottery Open Week and enjoy flying entertainment for the whole family, with two for one tickets on Flight Simulator and 4D Theatre rides. Experiences include flying with the Red Arrows in the amazing 4D theatre, combining motion picture with physical effects. Or feel the speed and agility of the Eurofighter Typhoon onboard the Flight Simulator, with a pilot’s eye view from the cockpit. It’s guaranteed family fun for thrill-seekers of all ages!

National Lottery ticket holders will also receive 10% off in the Museum shop for the duration of the Open Week. Receive money off an extensive collection of clothing, gifts, models and kits, home and kitchenware, toys, games, jewellery and much more!

After exploring the hangars at the Museums Midlands site, relax and refuel in the onsite restaurant and enjoy 10% off a great selection of food and drink, including barista coffees, homemade cakes, hot lunches or snacks from the deli. To redeem your discounts at the Museum, simply show your National Lottery ticket, Scratchcard or Instant Win Game to a member of staff.

The RAF Museum is currently progressing plans to deliver a major regional engagement programme, alongside a site transformation at its Midlands site, supported by an investment from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The development will transform the Midlands site with an immersive exhibition exploring today’s RAF, a new Learning Centre will provide bespoke facilities, and a purpose-built Collections Hub will enable the Museum’s stored collection to be shared with the public for the first time. The complementary development of a woodland landscape and new public realm will encourage outdoor learning, discovery, and contemplation.

Barry Smith, Director of Visitor and Commercial Development at RAF Museum said:
‘We’re thrilled to be taking part in the National Lottery Open Week this year. As with many other organisations across the UK, The National Lottery has directly helped us, with the funding enabling us to begin progressing plans for our Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme. We’re delighted to have the opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has bought a National Lottery ticket, making a vital contribution to good causes and in turn, supporting us. We’re looking forward to welcoming players at the RAF Museum during Open Week.’

To view all venues and offers that are available throughout The National Lottery Open Week, visit www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk. The RAF Museum is open daily from 10.00am and admission is free.

Terms and conditions and booking instructions across special offers will vary, check the individual offer listing for details. www.rafmuseum.org

STAAR Programme: Propelling Young Minds into Aerospace

STAAR at RAF Museum

Students from across the UK have a chance to explore aerospace engineering and technology during a summer residential, delivered by the Royal Air Force Museum in partnership with Northrop Grumman in the UK.

Designed to engage and inspire young minds, the RAF Museum’s Summer Time Advanced Aerospace Residency (STAAR) programme offers participants a unique opportunity to discover the exciting world of aerospace.

Specifically tailored for Year 9 (Scottish S3) students aged 14-15 with a keen interest in STEM, STAAR participants will engage in a series of hands-on activities, including flight simulators, flying drones, exploring aviation engineering, and behind-the-scenes access to the Museum and RAF Cosford. This immersive approach enables participants to explore and enrich their knowledge and understanding of aerospace in a stimulating environment.

During this once-in-a-life-time opportunity, STAAR recruits will be challenged with a series of tasks, encouraging them to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Industry experts in STEM along with RAF personnel will be on hand to mentor participants, sharing valuable insights and experiences.

With a limit of 40 places available, the immersive five-day residential experience will run over two weeks between 22-26 July and 29 July-2 August, with 20 students each week. In addition to the daytime learning, a series of social activities including sports and movie nights will be available each evening, helping STAAR participants build new friendships and improve their teamwork.

Lucy Watkiss, Access & Learning Officer (STAAR & History) at RAF Museum Midlands said:
‘The STAAR programme is not just a fantastic educational opportunity, it’s a journey into the thrilling world of aviation that we hope will inspire and shape the next generation of aviators, engineers, and innovators. By providing a first hand experience of the aviation world, we aim to not only cultivate a love for STEM but also inspire young individuals to pursue their dreams.’

Nick Chaffey, Chief Executive of Northrop Grumman UK said:
‘It is a pleasure to continue our partnership with the Royal Air Force Museum on our groundbreaking STAAR programme, now in its seventh year. STAAR is a unique opportunity to learn, experience and apply STEM subjects taught in the classroom to the real world of engineering. This inspiring programme aims to encourage more students to study STEM subjects, as well as develop a clearer view of the career opportunities and pathways that await them. At Northrop Grumman our mission is to define possible every day. We are a global team of pioneers with a passion for science, engineering, and technology at our heart, and we are constantly working to share that passion with young people across the UK.’

The STAAR programme is fully funded (including travel, food and accommodation) by Northrop Grumman,
with the support of the Northrop Grumman Foundation, and in partnership with the RAF Museum. The residential week will be delivered at the Museum’s Midlands site and on base at RAF Cosford, with support from TA Education.

Applications for the STAAR programme are now open. Students who have an aptitude in STEM subjects who would like to take part in STAAR must complete an online application form, in conjunction with a teacher, school representative or organisation leader. Applications close on 29 March.

For more information on the STAAR programme visit www.rafmuseum.org/STAAR.