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Post by PB on May 29, 2023 6:51:41 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 29/05/23Bank Holiday Monday..and there's sunshine and blue skies awaiting!!
In just a few days from now the Blackbushe Air Day will be in full swing, Blackbushe will be the place to be.. Much talk, quite rightly, around Blackbushe has been focused on the Viking aeroplane components of which now reside in the new hangar a short stroll from the Pathfinder Cafe.
Viking talk does often include reference to the rugged old Vickers Wellington bomber, the WW2 aeroplane featuring Barnes Wallace's geodetic aircraft structure that was also used in the Viking. However, perhaps strangely, very little reference is made of the Vickers Warwick, very slightly larger than the Wellington, but almost identical in appearance. Of particular importance to the Blackbushe Viking story is the Warwick story, not only because the Viking has strong genetic links with the type but because Warwicks were very much a part of the Blackbushe story during WW2.Blackbushe based Warwicks of 167 Squadron..Warwicks provided long-haul supply flights, in June 1945 an example being Warwick HG230 from Blackbushe to Pomigliano in Italy routing via Yvetot and Avignonin France. Flight time was 5hours 50 minutes, with the return leg the following day taking slightly longer, 6 hours and 05 minutes... Warwicks were plagued with engine problems, nothing like the reliability of the Vikings who would follow in peacetime powered by their trusty Bristol Hercules engines...Wartime luxury courtesy of the Vickers Warwick...For the records, today's date in 1935 witnessed the first flight of the Me Bf109. On Saturday the Bouchon, a Spanish built version of the 109 will be on show at Blackbushe having very kindly been flown in from the Heritage Hangar at Biggin Hill. The first time ever this famous shape has been seen at Blackbushe...
Go back in time a little further, to 1925, and it was on this day that Alan Cobham pulled off something of a marathon. He flew a DH60 from Croydon to Zurich and back on the same day. 1,000 miles!!!
PB
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Post by PB on May 30, 2023 7:12:04 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 30/05/23Time continues to play its games. Looking in the mirror is gauge enough to confirm its passage and the 'evidence' it leaves in its trail. Time's passage this year seemingly with greased skates on, the Blackbushe Air Day next Saturday seemingly months away, it'll soon be just hours away. "Photo of the Day" takes us through the decades, regular use of the time machine that first ticked in November 1942 through war into the peaceful fifties, thence into the scandalous sixties and the turbulent decades that have brought us to today.. Perhaps this morning a ride through the decades, cometh the Air Day visitors will glean facts from the History Hub when they visit the Blackbushe Heritage Trust, but this morning a quick ride through the decades of our own!!Blackbushe, RAF Hartford Bridge, in the forties.Blackbushe in the fifties, the magnificent mix of civil commercial and military operations. London's second airport...Blackbushe in the 'swinging' sixties, destruction, dismay, and diabolical deeds..Blackbushe in the seventies, warbirds and wonders! Business flying really took a hold, Doug's warbirds flourished in the new hangars!Blackbushe in the eighties, now under British Car Auctions ownership, business flying grew and for a couple of years we ran the Aviators' Weekends, a mix of fun and tests!Blackbushe in the nineties, we celebrated the Airport's 50th in 1992 with cake, a flying display and fly-in, and dedication of the Airport's memorial plaque to 'remember'.It's a long and complex story, but here we are in the 21st Century. Blackbushe has regained her stride after the pandemic, business, flying school and rotary traffic are all doing very nicely, the apron continues to host more jet visitors from abroad, and everyday the airfield moves closer to that day when six decades of delay give way to the sprouting of a new infrastructure - an airport with hangars and facilities taken away six decades ago.
PB
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Post by PB on May 31, 2023 6:38:51 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 31/05/23Without delving too deeply into your religious persuasions this morning I place before you just one simple question...Do you believe in life after death?
"Why?" I hear you ask is he asking such a question..
The answer my friend depends on whether you consider 'life' to be attached to things other than those of the flesh and blood variety. You will have noted what day it is, it's clearly indicated at the heading of every "POTD". 31st May, 2023.
The 31st May. Step back 63 years exactly to today. 31st May, 1960.
Blackbushe Airport was closed "for ever" on this day in 1960...
The day that Blackbushe Airport's heart stopped beating, the day the "last aeroplane ever" would climb away never to return. Motivated by their own reasons, the government of the day invested millions in another airport way down in the countryside of West Sussex. Blackbushe was cast aside including her thousands of employees, the numerous resident airlines, and oh yes, the United States Navy. Blackbushe Airport closed on 31st May, 1960.
But did it? Yes, it was dismembered, her structures levelled, all her services, electricity, water, etc ripped up in such a way as it would be difficult to reconnect...aided by a vociferous local parish of the time who ripped up the eastern runways.
But, a miracle was forthcoming in the shape of Air Vice Marshal "Pathfinder" Bennett. In his wisdom he saw, as many others did, the huge benefits that Blackbushe could still offer. Geographically, environmentally, operationally, all remained in Blackbushe's favour. The AVM signed the cheque to buy 365 acres of Blackbushe Airport, a site where a leading British General Aviation centre would grow in a location south-west of London that was ideally suited to the task.
In just a very few days, the 3rd June, Blackbushe Airport will prove that she very much enjoys life after death as the Air Day swings open her gates, and if the AVM is looking down he will surely be delighted to see how life is very much in residence at this uniquely famous airfield.Bye bye US Navy. The vast Navy hangar would soon be empty, a C-54 such as this was the last US Navy movement at Blackbushe on 31 May 1960.The very last fixed wing departure was "Nanny Ann", the faithful Blackbushe based Paine family Proctor. HNA first swooped into Blackbushe in 1954, they built up a long relationship She couldn't stay away. Some years later HNA returned to her old home for a visit, no doubt noting a few changes since 31 May, 1960...Westland Widgeon G-APTE was the very last Blackbushe movement on 31st May. As she ascended the sky went silent - that was it.Falcon Airways Viking G-AHPG closed the Blackbushe/Viking story on 29 May, 1960. She departed for a new life in the skies, moving to Hurn, and awaiting whatever the future held..The sun has far from set on Blackbushe or the Viking!! Blackbushe moves on toward ever better times as the GA airport AVM Bennett envisioned over sixty years ago, even a Viking has returned for restoration becoming a permanent salute to all who operated these venerable aeroplanes from Blackbushe's still very much alive runway..Here's to life and its meaning for an airfield called Blackbushe....
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 1, 2023 8:14:48 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 01/06/23Welcome to June, half way through the year already, flaming June being an over used description. A large anti-cyclone seems to be dictating our weather currently, sucking chill winds over us laden with North Sea water vapour, it looks as if the Air Day - the day after tomorrow!!! - will enjoy some cloud to start, a breeze from the east, and unbridled sunshine for most of the day.
Air Day tickets are sold out once again, it's going to be a great day, such a contrast with June 1st referred to in yesterday's "POTD" when in 1960 Blackbushe Airport was, for the first time, devoid of aircraft and her people, she was now closed and destined for destruction and to disappear.
If you're attending the Air Day could I draw your attention to the Blackbushe Heritage Trust's hangar where the Viking is waiting to say, "Hello" to you. You will find our 'donations' container hungry for your support, and Raffle tickets waiting for you too. Fabulous prizes including flight simulator time with British Airways at Heathrow, flights from Blackbushe - not with British Airways - Heritage Trust merchandise and Pathfinder vouchers.. Every ticket sold goes toward the Viking's restoration, she needs your help! Oh yes, if you buy a book of five Raffle tickets you'll get them at a special price, bulk discount!
June 1st... the date marks the first flight of the Short 360 back in 1981. Carrying up to 39 passengers it played a useful role in the important field of regional airline flying. It certainly looked good when flying into Blackbushe, usually on flights associated with Farnborough Week. Visions of Blackbushe's past crept into view as passengers once again disembarked onto well tried tarmac...One of Blackbushe's regional movements as Short 360 of Capital Airlines arrives during Farnborough Week... almost twenty years after Blackbushe was closed by the government.PB
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Post by PB on Jun 2, 2023 7:18:21 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 02/06/23I know it's June but I wish somebody could give nature's thermostat a quick tweak and warm things up a tad. Last evening's gathering at Blackbushe with the Yateley Society was under clear skies and fanned by that persistent wind from the east. Despite the breeze all who attended appeared fascinated by the Viking project while purchasing Raffle tickets and Heritage Trust merchandise to remember the evening by. When you visit the Blackbushe Heritage Trust hangar tomorrow - the Blackbushe Air Day - make sure you buy your Raffle tickets before the 3pm deadline, tickets are £3 or a book of five for £10. Simulator experience with British Airways, flights from Blackbushe, BHT merchandise and £50 voucher for enjoyment in the Pathfinder Cafe.. Every penny raised and/or donated is a penny nearer our Viking rolling out complete onto Blackbushe's tarmac where once Vikings lived in numbers..
The Viking in its hangar, tomorrow the Air Day!! TOMORROW!! Spitfires, Hurricanes, and numerous other historic shapes will be arriving like the Bouchon (Me109), Lockheed Electra, Anson, Fenec and many others that will be on view during the day.
With the Hawker Hurricane making an appearance at Blackbushe tomorrow, the day is well timed. It was on 3rd June, 1936, that the Air Ministry awarded Hawker with an order for 600 Hurricane MkI fighters, the largest peacetime aircraft order that Britain had seen! Almost 90 years later she's just as exciting as ever...and beautiful!A well know shape from Vickers Supermarine as Doug Arnold's resident Spitfire took to the air during a 'flying day' in the 1980s. Tomorrow that classic shape will be back!Back tomorrow too, the Hurricane on a day in June that meant so much to the Hurricane and the outcome of the Battle of Britain..Hopefully see you tomorrow!!
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 3, 2023 4:57:31 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 03/06/2305.30, 3rd June, 2023... The day that for so long has been some kind of figment through the winter months has sprung into reality. It feels like any other, but we know that a fabulous day awaits as the Blackbushe Air Day 2023 comes into reality!! 05.30 and some early morning clouds forming on that persistent easterly wind, but they look pretty feeble and there's no doubt the Sun will cook them into submission before too long.
It's always the same with events at Blackbushe, the airfield is quiet and restful right now, but in a few hours time aeroplanes will be flocking in, thousands of ticket holders will be arriving, and another day to remember will be in progress! Once again a Blackbushe event is set to enjoy excellent weather with not a drop of rain to be seen - or felt.With huge thanks to the Heritage Hangar at Biggin Hill for supporting us one again, the Bouchon Me109 was the first arrival yesterday afternoon...more to follow!!Faithful supporter from White Waltham, G-ACMA also arrived yesterday...the DH Leopard Moth. This was the last aircraft flown by Geoffrey de Havilland, also flown by John 'Cats Eyes' Cunningham, and John Derry who was so sadly lost in the Farnborough DH110 accident.The Blackbushe Heritage Trust awaits you, lots to see, come and meet 'Vagabond' our Viking that in time will speak for the many Vikings for whom Blackbushe was once home. If you feel like donating, today's the day! Raffle tickets available until the 3pm draw this afternoon...every penny goes toward the restoration fund.
Have a great day, especially if you're at Blackbushe!!
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 6, 2023 12:28:20 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 06/06/23Faithful followers of "POTD" might have noticed a bit of a break in our transmissions..
First, and foremost. today is 6th June. D-DAY.. 79 years have now passed since that great campaign as the allied forces commenced their heroic recapture of the European mainland from the hands of the Nazi occupiers.
If ever there was a day when we should stop and issue the words "Thank you" to the very many who took part and made the supreme sacrifice for the peace of today, today must be that day.
Thank you. Many were the departures from Blackbushe (RAF Hartford Bridge) from early on D-Day. We must not forget the losses incurred by these heroic crews and the value of the D-Day activity launched from Blackbushe. Smoke laying across the Channel and back-up bomber operations including softening up strategic enemy strongholds.
The Air Day on 3rd June went off perfectly, and all who attended appeared to have a very enjoyable day out. One or two aeroplanes were unable to make the day, but with the excellent static park covering large areas of the grass areas plus on the taxiway opposite the Pathfinder and on the tarmac by the green hangars there was plenty to see. The taxiway abeam the Pathfinder sported the Lockheed Electra, Anson, and Russian MkIX Spitfire..quite a collection for sore eyes, while down by the hangars a Buchon (Me109 with a Merlin up front) and a Hurricane told their stories.
Having spent quite a bit of time over the winter writing to aircraft owners and suggesting they'd like to bring their aeroplanes to Blackbushe on 3rd June, it was pleasing to see some of the results. Electra, Anson, MkIX Spitfire, and Blackbushe on a warm summer's day.As we awaited the RAF Spitfire fly-past unfortunately your scribe suffered something of a diversion. An unscheduled descent onto the Blackbushe tarmac took place wherein I remember nothing, just an inky blackness as I found myself on the deck. The Viking hangar door took a bite at me on the way down as a result of some kind of blackout. Hence the recent break in communications. I left the event rather early with a delightful ambulance crew and eventually returned home last night. Leaving so early was a bitter blow and quite upsetting, but still here!!
I'm very grateful to those who came to my aid and to the Medical Team stationed just a short distance to where things went a bit wrong. Many needles later I'm home with some 'rectification' to the heart scheduled for later on. Not an ideal way to remember the Air Day perhaps, but I must add my complete praise for Frimley Parks A&E and Coronary Dept for their care, attention, and delving into where the problem stemmed.
I'm sure I'll have some photos to place here in due course for memories.. meanwhile wishing you a good day, and thankful that our Air Day was blessed with the most perfect weather. Yet another Blackbushe event where sunshine poured down from blue skies, obviously the weather gods are on our side!!
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 7, 2023 16:24:18 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 07/06/23A couple of photos from this year's Air Day..The one and only genuine MkIX Spitfire flown by the Russians in WW2. One of the many aircraft supplied by the UK in our common aim to eliminate the Nazis, brought to Blackbushe by the kindness of Peter Teichman.Peter ready for departure..It's a start? An aviator of tomorrow gets the feel of an aeroplane.120 cars entered the 'classic car show'...all part of a brilliant day out!The minute I learned the Lockheed Electra was in the country only one thing to do..Write to the operator and ask!! A popular move by all accounts.More photos next edition of "POTD"...
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 8, 2023 9:38:26 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 08/06/23Still battered and bruised from Saturday's unscheduled event ironically I have to stay clear of the Sun whilst on a high powered drug to regulate the heart's urge to misbehave....I'll either fry, or I'm turning into a vampire - not the sort that de Havilland had in mind.The very old and the more recent. The tail of a DA-62 while nearby the 1934 DH Leopard Moth and a Tiger Moth enjoy the sunshine. This Leopard Moth was the last aircraft flown by Geoffrey de Havilland, it was also flown by John 'Cats Eyes' Cunningham and other well known names.. The Tiger Moth is G-APAL, Blackbushe based in the early sixties when it was still a Jackaroo, looking magnificent as the aeroplane the DH designers envisaged!!The current Forum header photo of Peter Teichman's arrival in the MkIX Spitfire comes thanks to Alan Lewendon, our man on the spot!G-APAL at Blackbushe in 2023!G-APAL as a Blackbushe resident in the great freeze of 1962/63....and later on after a storm in 1963. She jumper her moorings, the Parish Council's excavation of the main apron did not help poor old PAL after being blown back, but she was back in the air before too long..Perks of the job, company vehicle provided.. Chris on patrol!After Saturday afternoon's 'event', your scribe is still a little tender here and here!I think that's enough from me for now..few more images from Saturday tomorrow.
PB
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Post by PB on Jun 9, 2023 8:32:50 GMT
"Photo of the Day" 09/06/23Great isn't? I just get placed on a super drug that requires staying out of sunlight and a heatwave arrives complete with Auntie Beeb giving instructions on staying 'safe'...
Looking back to Saturday and the Blackbushe Air Day some great sounds were in the air, the throbbing of an Anson, the Lockheed Electra, and the wonderfully spine chilling goose bump instigating sound of Merlins carrying precious recall of sounds that prevailed in the Second Worlds War...RAF Memorial Flight and flypasts by this machine of exquisite beauty.The Hurricane departs...Just imagine.The Anson's twin Cheetah engines bringing back memories of a sound so familiar in the fifties... ..and finally the Avro Lincoln at Blackbushe. This one was home based and operated by Eagle, sadly we'll never see one fly again, but we can remember today as the day when in 1944 the type made its first flight..the type was retired from RAF service in 1963.PB
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