forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com

WW1 Airshows and Model Shows => WW1 Aircraft Airshows => Topic started by: KiwiZac on November 30, 2015, 12:17:15 PM

Title: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on November 30, 2015, 12:17:15 PM

Hi all,
As some of you may know, The Vintage Aviator Limited is a New Zealand company which restores and builds World War 1 aircraft, the vast majority to airworthy condition. This weekend was the first of their monthly Flying Weekends, an opportunity for the public to check out the collection and for the pilots to get current again and practice displays for future airshows. Previously they would have afternoon mini shows with structured programmes every other month in summer, but that has been replaced by these much less formal affairs.

The wind was too bad for much to fly on Saturday, but I still went away happy. I saw one of the aircraft I was hoping to - the original Hanriot HD.1 - but unfortunately the newbuild Airco DH.4 is having engine issues so wasn't seen outside. One of the pilots told us there are also two Fokker Eindeckers in the works. Exciting stuff!

This is the unassuming public hangar from the carpark. They have two other hangars onsite (that I know of) but cameras are forbidden there and entry is by invitation only.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5B163953-C0AD-4360-BF95-19D3E218A905_zpsmrtfos1s.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5B163953-C0AD-4360-BF95-19D3E218A905_zpsmrtfos1s.jpg.html)

And when you walk in this is what greets you:
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/0BAF072B-52B9-4E53-927E-A4E31B560C09_zps1yulft0l.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/0BAF072B-52B9-4E53-927E-A4E31B560C09_zps1yulft0l.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/85BA78A9-DF30-45B9-884C-E77625AB9387_zpsfhqgal9i.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/85BA78A9-DF30-45B9-884C-E77625AB9387_zpsfhqgal9i.jpg.html)

The aforementioned Hanriot, a 1918 original and a sweet-looking little number:
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/6A916861-29EC-40F4-BB44-A1CF5FD0AA96_zpsef1ohgbu.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/6A916861-29EC-40F4-BB44-A1CF5FD0AA96_zpsef1ohgbu.jpg.html)

The original Be.2f restored by the late Stuart Tantrum. This is the oldest DH-designed aircraft flying anywhere. She turns 99 next year:
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/26F027A0-C737-48FF-AFA2-D9F356529937_zpsnbao9nwq.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/26F027A0-C737-48FF-AFA2-D9F356529937_zpsnbao9nwq.jpg.html)

The Be.2c - I love the skids.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/887D9EA0-C486-425C-A116-33E4308FB204_zpsxfryo8ug.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/887D9EA0-C486-425C-A116-33E4308FB204_zpsxfryo8ug.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5F2DD230-7B66-4AEC-9B5E-C4979A35CF4A_zpsowmggrgl.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5F2DD230-7B66-4AEC-9B5E-C4979A35CF4A_zpsowmggrgl.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/E41711F7-D424-40DD-A61A-6DE4E17109E5_zpsmskwca9l.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/E41711F7-D424-40DD-A61A-6DE4E17109E5_zpsmskwca9l.jpg.html)

The very lovely new Be.2, subtype and rego unknown to me. There were three Be types present, there is a Be12 repro but that was hidden away.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/FE8F5F4B-F50B-4CDF-8556-5F4A633D46A6_zpsyrxgfsfk.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/FE8F5F4B-F50B-4CDF-8556-5F4A633D46A6_zpsyrxgfsfk.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/9894F7BB-25E0-4C7B-8487-156F605A6371_zpsjv33jnoj.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/9894F7BB-25E0-4C7B-8487-156F605A6371_zpsjv33jnoj.jpg.html)

These three flew on Saturday along with an Se.5a. The DH.5 is the only representative example anywhere, the Tiger Moth is used for training pilots for the collection, and the new-build Albatros D.Va has a lovely-sounding original Mercedes up front.:
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5A99230E-A23B-4BBE-9181-3FE99281BAE8_zpsdfg3tfe2.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5A99230E-A23B-4BBE-9181-3FE99281BAE8_zpsdfg3tfe2.jpg.html)

The Nieuport XI performed an engine run while a friendly pilot - whose name I missed - explained everything we were seeing and hearing.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/A97348EE-0C89-48F2-9484-1A8479F7844D_zps3qtj2iop.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/A97348EE-0C89-48F2-9484-1A8479F7844D_zps3qtj2iop.jpg.html)

Then John Lanham (former RNZAF Canberra and Skyhawk pilot) took seven of us on an informal flightline tour, letting us get up close and personal (and unlimited photo-taking opportunities) as well as educating us on type histories and what each is like to fly. It sounds like the Bebe is a delight, likewise the Se.5a, whereas the E.V/D.VIII is a tricky little so-and-so.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/EC3F1203-063A-4BED-A771-CAD2606E12CB_zps1jmnxmob.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/EC3F1203-063A-4BED-A771-CAD2606E12CB_zps1jmnxmob.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5D27CCD7-FFD9-480B-A094-80507F6E35FF_zps3gkqky0j.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5D27CCD7-FFD9-480B-A094-80507F6E35FF_zps3gkqky0j.jpg.html)

Unlike the TVAL mini-airshows of the past, the two resident WW2 fighters stayed put in the hangar. Both are smaller up close than I remembered! It was great to have a close-up look at them and pay silent tribute to them both. They are former RNZAF machines and for a while were the only airworthy examples from our wartime force - we had 424 Corsairs and 297 P-40s, now there are two and four respectively still flying. Some forumites may recognise these as being former OFMC machines.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/4A5C037D-F3C3-4334-AE0F-7725D0BCCA88_zpskzn7bo53.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/4A5C037D-F3C3-4334-AE0F-7725D0BCCA88_zpskzn7bo53.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/ADF793E6-F434-481F-9535-C9680F94144D_zps98pwgyt6.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/ADF793E6-F434-481F-9535-C9680F94144D_zps98pwgyt6.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/B17F40DA-D840-4503-B304-EFA597513CBE_zpsuqbspuqd.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/B17F40DA-D840-4503-B304-EFA597513CBE_zpsuqbspuqd.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/7C4EA53C-CB8F-4DE8-8FC6-44B79B1207EF_zpsuosv7yfz.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/7C4EA53C-CB8F-4DE8-8FC6-44B79B1207EF_zpsuosv7yfz.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/312FBCA1-006A-4434-8EE8-908422AEA90B_zpssfudp9lk.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/312FBCA1-006A-4434-8EE8-908422AEA90B_zpssfudp9lk.jpg.html)

And finally, the people. I recognised a handful of pilots including Bevan Dewes (youngest current WW1 pilot worldwide - he's not yet 25!), seen here topping up the D.Va with oil while Keith Skilling (ex-RNZAF, known for his Corsair and Mosquito displays) guides him. There were a number of ground crew around also, but the pilots all doubled as crew anyway so it's hard to know who's who!
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/378C459E-C806-473E-A9BA-70F4412AA337_zpsap0hgk3a.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/378C459E-C806-473E-A9BA-70F4412AA337_zpsap0hgk3a.jpg.html)

So while yesterday was the flying day by all accounts, I still had an excellent day on Saturday. I totally recommend coming along to one of these should you find yourself in New Zealand.

At Saturday's event I got to meet Jamo and we had a great chat. He took a ton of photos on Saturday and was there Sunday so I'm sure he'll be along shortly to add some material  8)

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Des on November 30, 2015, 12:31:46 PM

Thanks very much for this wonderful collection of photos, all the BE.2 aircraft look amazing.

Des.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on November 30, 2015, 12:59:34 PM

Thanks Des, and I agree - they are beautiful machines. Where else can you see three together? I just wish the Be.12 had been out to join them.

(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/980BCC79-CEB9-445C-8842-A9BFAEA40902_zpsqxayecfw.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/980BCC79-CEB9-445C-8842-A9BFAEA40902_zpsqxayecfw.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/457B5779-DD1B-44BC-89D4-AB628BE2FDE0_zps54modqcv.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/457B5779-DD1B-44BC-89D4-AB628BE2FDE0_zps54modqcv.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/C2D2176B-93EB-409C-BA8B-8955325A14AE_zpsuz5vpnbn.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/C2D2176B-93EB-409C-BA8B-8955325A14AE_zpsuz5vpnbn.jpg.html)

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: RAGIII on December 02, 2015, 02:24:45 AM

Thanks for sharing these AWESOME photos! I really enjoy seeing these aircraft and your photos are always brilliant. You give the Modeler exactly what we want! I also like looking at the Types represented. Kind of Like a Future, and past, WNW release catalogue!
RAGIII

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Des on December 02, 2015, 05:51:02 AM

Thank you KiwiZac for the additional photos, all beautiful aeroplanes.

Des.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Michael Scarborough on December 02, 2015, 07:18:36 AM

This is really wonderful, Zac! Thanks for the photos and the commentary.

I'm sure von Buckles is salivating at the possibility of making a visit to TVAL when he wings his way to the Antipodes!

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on December 02, 2015, 09:24:18 AM

There are plenty more if you like? I'm glad you all enjoy them, thanks for your kind words.

(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/8EC86ABC-29CE-4906-9C21-A8C3E639582D_zpsdsgmt7dr.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/8EC86ABC-29CE-4906-9C21-A8C3E639582D_zpsdsgmt7dr.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/1B0A506F-4C89-46B4-B625-B14D94609A14_zpslgk0fxla.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/1B0A506F-4C89-46B4-B625-B14D94609A14_zpslgk0fxla.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/16DBB869-ACD4-4311-8536-9AD3B7CBAA43_zpsqjybebi2.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/16DBB869-ACD4-4311-8536-9AD3B7CBAA43_zpsqjybebi2.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/31FD1301-3B6B-4BD6-8AC1-ABF41ECDC142_zpstnp0n4uj.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/31FD1301-3B6B-4BD6-8AC1-ABF41ECDC142_zpstnp0n4uj.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/C025DDE6-1798-4589-BE56-E22E7E94FA0F_zpslgigufwg.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/C025DDE6-1798-4589-BE56-E22E7E94FA0F_zpslgigufwg.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5A38A2BD-15AA-4DB0-AF36-8817B77E5D10_zps0ezytnbc.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5A38A2BD-15AA-4DB0-AF36-8817B77E5D10_zps0ezytnbc.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/3439DA73-BBF6-47BF-A8A9-36F10958B888_zpstr1ioejd.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/3439DA73-BBF6-47BF-A8A9-36F10958B888_zpstr1ioejd.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/621572F5-CBCA-407D-9C0C-3A846084B694_zpsbpfppnjz.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/621572F5-CBCA-407D-9C0C-3A846084B694_zpsbpfppnjz.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5C292A81-0884-4884-BF30-09A79CD310B5_zpsrmchdqr4.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5C292A81-0884-4884-BF30-09A79CD310B5_zpsrmchdqr4.jpg.html)

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Pgtaylorart on December 02, 2015, 09:30:49 AM

Thanks for sharing these pics. I really love that black and white BE.2. Now Wingsnuts has to do one so I can make that paint scheme.

George

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Nigel Jackson on December 02, 2015, 09:35:21 AM

Thanks for the photos, KiwiZac; my jealousy has no bounds.

I'm more than ever convinced that a BE2 is around the corner from WNW.

Best wishes
Nigel

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Michael Scarborough on December 02, 2015, 09:35:27 AM

Yeah, it's easy to see why guys like Des are praying for Wingnuts to release one...or a whole series. Surely it's in the pipeline!!!???

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on December 02, 2015, 10:42:00 AM

I'm more than happy to share my photos, you're all very welcome. I'm still not certain if I'll go to the December weekend (Boxing Day and the next) but I'll likely be back in January and February. It's a 3.5hr drive away but totally worth it, even if nothing flies. The atmosphere in the hangar and being around the machines really is magical.

I didn't take any detail photos but I saw Jamo take a ton (particularly of St Catherine's Ontario, you can also see him at work in my first Se5a pic), hopefully he'll be along soon to share some. In the meantime, here's the rest of mine. Apologies for the lighting in the hangar shots, I only use my iPhone now.
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/3233CEA5-8036-47E2-9310-7C8F56AF5742_zpsuoxqlnyr.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/3233CEA5-8036-47E2-9310-7C8F56AF5742_zpsuoxqlnyr.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/F2594391-1C20-41FB-8528-6373CAF48153_zpsvn2sxb3x.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/F2594391-1C20-41FB-8528-6373CAF48153_zpsvn2sxb3x.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/722F868A-396A-4A35-BC10-4EFE92D4FE7E_zpszlr6i4db.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/722F868A-396A-4A35-BC10-4EFE92D4FE7E_zpszlr6i4db.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5E725B2A-7553-4536-A759-D76F1F7433B5_zpshw4p03f2.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5E725B2A-7553-4536-A759-D76F1F7433B5_zpshw4p03f2.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/792C89A3-0E0C-49A8-A5EA-B1F0C58C62B1_zpscednmwfo.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/792C89A3-0E0C-49A8-A5EA-B1F0C58C62B1_zpscednmwfo.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/348C9131-9A7C-4E55-9E15-226057F00D76_zpsuka6wzk8.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/348C9131-9A7C-4E55-9E15-226057F00D76_zpsuka6wzk8.jpg.html)

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: lcarroll on December 02, 2015, 11:24:02 AM

Thanks for posting all of these "Zak", what an absolute feast of beautiful machines!! The BE.2's are magnificent, hopefully it won't be too long until one, or hopefully more, are released by Wingnuts.
Cheers,
Lance

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on December 02, 2015, 11:41:46 AM

Thanks Lance, you're welcome! TVAL have so far an original Be2f, built a new 2f, built at least one c, there's the St Catherine's machine (I'm not sure of subtype, maybe it's a late C?) and the Be.12...so a WNW Be.2 or three HAS to happen sometime, right?! And given that both Fe.2s in the TVAL hangar on Saturday (Jess and Scotch Express/Zanzibar) are decal options in the WNW kits, I'm guessing at least one of the TVAL Bes will be a subject too. The Airfix kit will have to do me until the WNW range comes out...

Seeing the St Catherine's Be.2 in the sunlight was glorious. It was my first time seeing it in person. I've been a fan of the Be since I first saw the original F under restoration in 2005. Seeing them fly is a real treat. Stunningly beautiful machines...but I'd not want to go to war in one!
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/C025DDE6-1798-4589-BE56-E22E7E94FA0F_zpslgigufwg.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/C025DDE6-1798-4589-BE56-E22E7E94FA0F_zpslgigufwg.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/5A38A2BD-15AA-4DB0-AF36-8817B77E5D10_zps0ezytnbc.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/5A38A2BD-15AA-4DB0-AF36-8817B77E5D10_zps0ezytnbc.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/TVAL%20shows/FB22A5B6-889C-4DA9-A785-D1FE578E7885_zpsesig1gm1.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/TVAL%20shows/FB22A5B6-889C-4DA9-A785-D1FE578E7885_zpsesig1gm1.jpg.html)

And a couple of shots of the original Be.2f from her debut at Omaka in 2009, to make up for my lack of photos of her from Saturday:
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/cf09/DSC_0015-1.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/cf09/DSC_0015-1.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/cf09/DSC_0412.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/cf09/DSC_0412.jpg.html)
(http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a388/ZacYates/cf09/DSC_0145.jpg) (http://s15.photobucket.com/user/ZacYates/media/cf09/DSC_0145.jpg.html)
This is Stuart Tantrum, legendary Kiwi restorer who did the Be.2f (as well as many other aircraft). He died a year or two ago, so I feel quite privileged to have captured this moment.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Des on December 02, 2015, 11:47:59 AM

Many thanks Zac for the additional photos, I can't get enough of the BE.2 and really hope that Wingnuts do release a kit soon, what a magical looking aeroplane.

Des.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on December 02, 2015, 01:23:49 PM

My pleasure Des! Magical - just the word for the Bleriot Experimentals! I'm glad there are so many fellow Be fans here, hopefully WNW takes note of this potential customer base! I was going to add some more photos of the Be.2f from Classic Fighters 2009 but Photobucket is giving me some strife.

I just looked up the NZ Civil Register and ZK-CBE - St Catherines Ontario - is indeed a Be2c. You may be able to see in one of my photos the word EXPERIMENTAL on its side. I wonder if that has anything to do with the rumours of rides being available soon?

And for the record TVAL has ZK-BFR (the original Be.2f), ZK-CBE, ZK-KOZ and ZK-TFZ (Be.2e), ZK-TVA (the C with skids in my photos) and ZK-ZEP (the Be.12) registered in NZ. I think the two Be2es are in the UK now but that's six of the series flying*...not bad!

*I believe the Be.12 hasn't flown yet

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Jamo on December 02, 2015, 01:36:45 PM

Nice to see your photos Zac. I will post some of mine tonight when I get home from work. 'Experimental' lettering on the fuselage signifies that the BE2c has not yet completed its flight testing for certification, which is why it is not flying in public yet. The vinyl lettering will be removed when this is completed, same it was for all the other TVAL aircraft when they were new.
Cheers
James

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Des on December 02, 2015, 02:09:02 PM

Excellent Jamo, looking forward to seeing your photos.

Des.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Jamo on December 02, 2015, 05:50:26 PM

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/Title.jpg)

Feels like my life was on hold over the winter as I waited for the first TVAL flying weekend of the season. The weather at Masterton can be quite changeable at this time of year so I tried to keep my expectations realistic. I thought to myself that even if there is no flying, it will be great to see the collection again and there might even be a glimpse of those new planes that have not made a public debut yet (Sopwith Camel and Liberty-engined DH4).

As ever, click on the images to enlarge. Most are reasonably large

After a one hour 30 min drive over the Rimutaka range I arrived at Hood Aerodrome to find the wind was quite gusty and the TVAL team were busy preparing for the event. Here is Gene DeMarco cleaning the floor of the hangar

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/Small_2.jpg)

Planes that have been hangared all winter need to have accumulated bird guano washed off

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/Small_3.jpg)

Radiators filled up

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151128_102927.jpg)

Oil levels checked

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/Small_1.jpg)

Apart from Gene DeMarco, all the pilots are volunteers. Here is John Bargh cleaning the BE2c (early)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151128_103032.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151128_104045.jpg)

These first photos were taken on my mobile phone and uploaded immediately to the Vintage Aviator Facebook site. The flying weekend hasn't had any publicity other than the creation of a Facebook event. This is partly to avoid civil aviation compliance costs associated with a large formal show. The current format is a more informal event to provide flying time for the volunteer pilots. We had about 20-25 spectators on the first day.

Some planes remained in the hangar for the day.

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050142.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050128.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050110.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050111.jpg)

The new BE2c was looking gorgeous

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151128_103946.jpg)

I love the authentic finish TVAL create in the cockpit

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040938.jpg)

The Avro 504 went up. Its a very special old plane, an original RNZAF specimen with its original engine, loving restored.

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050151.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050155.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050160.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050163.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050177.jpg)

Beautiful to see, then its back to the 'private' hangar

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050181.jpg)

Next the Albatros and SE5a went up. Priming the Mercedes engine:

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050166.jpg)

Waiting for the engine to warm up

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050172.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050170.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040958.jpg)

And then its off and and away

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040976.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050179.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050148.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050063.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050252.jpg)

Unforgetable sight

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050250.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050016.jpg)

The TVAL pilots don't rate the Albatros highly as a dogfighter, saying it's heavy on the controls, cumbersome. They much prefer flying the SE5a.

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040993.jpg)

But it sure looks graceful

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040983.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050027.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050198.jpg)

The DH5 is an ugly looking thing with its reverse staggered wings

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050195.jpg)

I like this shot of the ground crew watching the distant Albatros

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050188.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050145.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050144.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050141.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050028.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050006.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1040980.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050005.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050004.jpg)

The wind strength rose and it became clear there would no more flying on Saturday. John Lanham, a very experienced ex-RNZAF and warbirds pilot, gave as an informative tour of the flight line

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151128_125505.jpg)

I returned on the Sunday and the weather was much improved.

The Fokker EV went up

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050282.jpg)

Its probably the most maneuverable dogfighter in the collection but is a bit underpowered

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050273.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050270.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050268.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050262.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050259.jpg)

The Nieuport is another nimble aeroplane, very light

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050186.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050139.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050040.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050026.jpg)

Clouds of castor oil smoke on start up, love it!

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050021.jpg)

And there was a nice surprise - the new Sopwith Camel was wheeled out (I had asked Gene for a special favour on the Saturday)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050196.jpg)

This Sopwith Camel is an original aircraft fitted with an original Clerget engine, restored by The Vintage Aviator Ltd. At the time of writing it has not yet been certified to fly but this expected very soon.

It is finished in the markings of B5663 of A Flight 10 Naval Squadron. Flt Lt Curtis used this aircraft to secure his 11th victory in late 1917. On 23 January 1918 it was in a collision with an Albatros Scout and lost, its pilot Flt Sub-Lt Blyth being killed. The German pilot was also killed, although he was credited with the victory. Although reported to have fallen locked together, they appear to have separated near the ground, and this Camel landed pretty well intact. Total Victories for Curtis 13.

Does this whet your appetite for the forthcoming WNW release early next year?

It looks like a killer to me

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050191.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050241.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050238.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151129_132325.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/20151129_131543.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050309.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050332.jpg)

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050324.jpg)

Big Brother and Little Brother in the hangar.

(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Airshow%20Nov%202015/P1050314.jpg)

Big thank you to the good folk at The Vintage Aviator for showing off their workmanship, its a real treat and greatly appreciated. The next flying weekend is one the last weekend of December, Boxing Day and the next day. Anyone coming?

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Des on December 02, 2015, 06:44:31 PM

As usual Jamo your photos are superb, it is so nice to see all of these aircraft so beautifully presented and even better to see them in the air, what an awesome sight. Thanks very much for taking the time to post these photos, my favorites are still the BE.2 aircraft.

Des.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Dave W on December 02, 2015, 07:29:51 PM

Excellent photos KiwiZac and Jamo. Thank you so much for bringing the TVAL flying weekend alive for the rest of us. Your photos are fantastic and as always a great research aid for modelling.

cheers

Dave Wilson
Gold Coast
Australia

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: Nigel Jackson on December 02, 2015, 09:58:11 PM

Magnificent, Jamo, thanks. I wonder how closely the WNW Camel cockpit will follow the shots you've provided?

Best wishes
Nigel

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: lcarroll on December 02, 2015, 10:49:00 PM

   Wonderful coverage as always Jamo, your photos are so much appreciated!
Cheers,
Lance

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: uncletony on December 02, 2015, 11:17:58 PM

Great reports and images. The rest of us hate you :) No wonder von bob is selling his 'nuts.

Title: Re: TVAL Flying Weekend 28-29 November 2015
Post by: KiwiZac on December 03, 2015, 05:14:54 AM

Beautiful shots, Jamo! I'm glad to see the Avro out and about, and the new Camel looking great. That may be the aircraft that makes me finally like the type! See you in January?