Aero Heritage

2011-12-22

New website coming soon!

In the New Year AeroHeritage will be launching its new website, with a new look, more functional, and easier to navigate to find what services we have to offer. New additions to the website will include Aircraft Sales and Aircraft Management services.

Come and visit us again in the New Year to see what services we have to offer.

2010-11-29

We're covered ...

AeroHeritage pilots Jon Corley and John Dodd both adorn the cover of the latest 'Aeroplane' magazine (January edition). Jon Corley flying the de Havilland Venom in formation takes the main cover photo (and also the centre spread in the magazine), and John Dodd flying the 'Union Jack Dak' on its way to Oshkosh.

There is an interesting article inside the magazine giving the details of the tremendous work carried out by the team that managed to get the Union Jack Dak flying in time for the 75th anniversary of the DC-3, against all odds! Buy your copy now to read this fascinating story, and also to catch up on the latest goings on in the world of classic and vintage aircraft.

2010-11-23

Checking Classics ...

For the renewal of the Certificate of Airworthiness of Classic Flight's DH104 Dove G-DHDV it needed to have a CAA 'Check Flight'. The check flight is something that has to be done every 3 years to ensure the aircraft and its systems are performing to within a tolerance of the manufacturers original specification. It takes a fair amount of discipline and careful flying to carry out a check flight, and pilots have to be approved by the CAA Test Pilots to carry out such a task. All 3 AeroHeritage pilots have been approved.

The check flight was carried out by Jon Corley, and after running through the extensive test schedule for the aircraft he was pleased to say the aircraft performed very well, in fact it performed slightly better than the book figures required.

Jon also took the opportunity to assist in a check flight on a privately owned Beagle Terrier (Auster T.7) G-ASAJ, which was a much simpler flight check schedule. Again, the aircraft performed better than expected.

2010-11-20

Post maintenance taxi ...

Air Atlantique's de Havilland Dove G-DHDV has recently had some maintenance carried out on the engines and other systems, so AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley was called in today to carry out some post maintenance ground runs.

Jon took the aircraft for a fast taxi up and down the runway to confirm the rpm settings of the engines with an airflow over them, to ensure that everything is set up ok ready for itsCertificate of Airworthiness check flight that is due.

A few minor tweaks to make and she will be ready for the check flight.

2010-11-16

Warwickshire workshop ...

Ben Cox is rebuilding his de Havilland DH60 Gipsy Moth G-AAOR in a farm workshop in Warwickshire. The aircraft was originally built in 1929 and has had several owners around the world. Ben decided it needed a little maintenance input to keep it in fine fettle, and before he knew it he had stripped the aircraft completely and is rebuilding it to the highest possible standard.

The aircraft is kept in good company, as there is also a Ryan and a de Havilland DH82 Tiger Moth residing in the workshop.

Ben is looking forward to flying his Gipsy Moth again, and is planning for it to be airworthy in Spring 2011.

We will post updates on the progress of the aircraft here on our news page.

2010-11-15

Low level recurrency ...

Today both Ben Cox and Jon Corley carried out some recurrency training for low level spraying operations in a Douglas DC3 operated by RVL Group. It is essential that pilots keep current in this exercise so they are always fresh, ready for an immediate call out whenever there may be an oil spill in the sea.

The DC3 they were flying has been converted to a sprayer by installing tanks, an air driven pump, and spray booms near the rear of the aircraft.

2010-11-14

DC-6 delights

AeroHeritage pilots Ben Cox and Jon Corley were both at the helm of the mighty Douglas DC-6 Cloudmaster G-APSA today. They were running the aircraft and carrying out a fast taxi run, much to the delight of the visitors at AIRBASE at Coventry Airport.

The aircraft is currently grounded pending some maintenance work to be carried out, but the aircraft is run on a regular basis to ensure the systems all continue to function correctly.

2010-11-12

Dakota flight ...

Ben Cox and Jon Corley both took Douglas DC-3 G-ANAF up for a post maintenance check flight today. The aircraft has recently had another engine fitted to the aircraft, so so flight time was needed to see how it was performing and to ensure all associated sytems were working correctly in flight.

2010-11-10

Running the Howard ...

Jon Corley is now back from America after having spent 2 weeks out there assisting with the Howard 500 based in Minnesota. While his mind was full of Howard knowledge it made sense to carry out some ground running of the Howard 500 N500LN at Coventry to see how its engines compare.

Satisfactory ground runs were completed, and figures were recorded to be used as a comparison for future ground runs and also as a comparison for the aircraft in America.

2010-11-06

Grumman Albatross ...

Today is Jon's last day in Minnesota, and what a great way to spend it. A Grumman Albatross was utilised today to fly over to Flying Cloud airport to pick up some friends, and then fly around and carry out a few landings. Some of the landings were on runways, one of the landings was on the Mississipi River, and another on Lake Minnetonka.

On Lake Minnetonka we dropped the anchor and all climbed up onto the top of the wing to watch the world go by whilst having a beverage, what a way to live, and what an aircraft!

2010-11-05

Flying visit ...

Another trip today for Jon in the Howard 500, this time to visit some other exciting aircraft. The purpose of todays flight was to visit a local warbird operator in Minnesota and have a look at his restoration workshop and the current projects.

His flying collection currently consists of a Fairchild Cornell, Vultee BT-13A Valiant, 2 Curtiss P-40 Warhawks, North American P-51 Mustang, and a Lockheed P-38 Lightning.

A tour around the restoration workhop revealed another P-40 Warhawk under ebuild, to a very high standard of enginering.

At the end of the day the skies were clear and the winds were calm, it seemed the perfect opportunity for the Howard 500 and the Mustang to do some formation flying!

2010-11-04

Twin tail aircraft ...

Another day for Jon Corley flying the Howard 500 in Minnesota, this time he met up with an old friend, it was the Beech 18 from the seaplane school that Jon had fallen in love with earlier in the week!

The 2 aircraft met up for some formation flying over Lake Minnetonka before returning back to base.

2010-11-03

Great lakes test ...

The Great Lakes 2T was rolled out of the hangar after its maintenance had been completed, and enough time had been spent working on the video camera, it was time to fly the aircraft and test it all out.

The aircraft needed to be flown at a high power setting for an hour to allow the new cylinders fitted to the engine to bed in properly. If a low power setting was used the cylinders would glaze over and spend the rest of their time on the engine allowing oil to pass by the piston rings.

Jon Corley was chosen to fly the aircraft on this crisp, cold morning. He wrapped up in several layers, put on his flight helmet, and took to the Minnesotan skies for an hour of fun. By the end of the flight he was frozen, but smiling.

The aircraft performed well, but the video camera was showing signs of vibration at different airspeeds, so a slight redesign of the camera mount is necessary.

2010-11-02

In the hangar ...

There wasn't any flying to be done today in Minnesota, so Jon Corley spent the day helping the mechanics in the hangar for the day. The Great Lakes was nearing the end of its annual maintenance check so Jon helped put the aircraft back together assisting the engineers as much as possible.

This aircraft is being used as a test bed for some video camera equipment before it gets fitted into some larger aircraft. Jon helped in the design and fitment of the camera mount, and the subsequent static testing of the recording system.

Spending the day in the hangar also gave Jon the opporunity to have a look at another Howard 500 which has been undergoing restoration for some years. The project is currently on hold, but could easily be started again at a moments notice.

2010-11-01

Seaplane check ride ...

After carrying out some thorough seaplane training, Jon was nervously excited about taking his check ride this morning.

The skies were clear, and the wind was calm, very calm, in fact too calm! There wasn't any wind at all which means the lake we were flying from was as smooth as glass. Although it looks very pretty it is not actually the best water surface for taking off or landing on, as there is more drag on take off and landing is much harder as it is difficult to judge your height as the surface doesn't have any texture to it. There's not a lot that can be done about the weather, so they just had to get on and do it.

As Jon was preparing the Cessna for his check ride, with the Beech 18 floatplane glistening in the corner of his eye, another classic taxied up to the jetty. It was a Piper J3 Cub on floats that had just flown in for its winter maintenance. Piper Cub, Beech 18, stunning scenery, is this Heaven?!

The check ride went well, and by lunchtime Jon was driving back to his hotel with a seaplane rating in his hand, a very happy chap.

2010-10-31

Seaplane training ...

After experiencing the Grumman Albatross yesterday, Jon Corley had been bitten by the bug of flying seaplanes. He decided that today was going to be spent carrying out his seaplane rating.

The training was carried out by Seaplane Services at Circle Pines, Minnesota on their Cessna 172N. Jon had in his mind it needed to be on a vintage aircraft like a Piper Cub, but the Cessna was all that was available at short notice. However, he did fall in love with a beautiful Beech 18 on floats that sat on the water waiting to be flown. He now had something to aspire to!

A full days training of a mix of groundschool and flying, can only be described as one of the most enjoyable activities you can have with an aircraft. At the end of the day Jon was ready for his check ride with an examiner which was booked for the next morning.

2010-10-30

Albatross splash around...

Today Jon Corley had the opportunity to fly a 1951 Grumman Albatross. He had never flown a seaplane before, so he was very surprised when after 25 minutes of flying in the cruise he was asked if he would like to have a go at his first attempt at a take-off and landing on water, in a big bird like that! A suitable lake was found in Northen Minnesota (there's a lot to chose from) and the take-off and landing was demonstrated by the instructor, it was now Jon's turn.

Jon did very well on his water take-offs and landings and also to taxiing, slow and 'on the step', you could say he took to it like a duck to water? After 30 minutes of playing on the water it was time to retreat back to the aircraft's base for a firmer landing, terra firma.

Jon enjoyed flying a seaplane so much he arranged for an instructor to carry out his training for his seaplane rating the next morning.

2010-10-16

Training a dragon ...

Today Jon Corley had the pleasure of training a new pilot on the de Havilland Dragon Rapide. As the aircraft only has a single seat in the cockpit the training is slightly unorthodox. The student had already proved his skills by initially flying the Chipmunk with Jon, and then by carrying out some taxiing in the Rapide. Jon the had to demonstrate how to fly the aircraft with the student looking over his shoulder, then back on the ground to swap seats for the student to have a go. Always a slightly worrying time for the instructor because there is nothing he can do other than shout! Thankfully, shouting wasn't required and the training all went well.

2010-10-11

de Havilland extremes ...

Today Jon Corley went from one de Havilland extreme to another. First he had to carry out a flight test of Air Atlantique's de Havilland DH112 Venom FB.50 G-DHVM. The aircraft has been flying with drop tanks recently, but a test was required to check the aircraft handling with the drop tanks removed. The aircraft was checked throughout its flight envelope, up to 400 knots.

After Jon had finished his fun in the classic jet it was time to carry out some training in another de Havilland classic, this time the Chipmunk G-APLO. 2 aerobatic training flights were carried out ensuring the pilot was flying to a sufficient standard.

2010-10-07

Jet instructor ...

Today Jon Corley was flying BAC Jet Provost T3 being checked out to become a recognised jet instructor. The flight involved an experienced ex-military instructor 'playing the fool' and making deliberate mistakes to see how/when Jon takes control.

Jon did well and passed the test with flying colours, now he can check out other pilots to fly ex-military jets!

2010-09-27

Aeronca Assessment ...

Today Jon Corley flew down to Bodmin in Cornwall to visit family, but while he was there it seemed the perfect opportunity to carry out a visual inspection of an Aeronca Champion for a potential customer.

The aircraft had been tucked away at the back of the hangar for some time and hadn't flown for at least 4 years, but it all seemed to be in good order and would take only minor maintenance and a little TLC to get back into the air where she belongs.

2010-09-26

Coventry fly-in

All 3 AeroHeritage pilots were flying today at Coventry Airport's Fly-In, which was raising money for Help the Heroes. A variety of vintage aircraft were present at the fly-in, ranging from the Army Historic Aircraft Flight's Beaver to the classic Avro Vulcan.

Ben Cox was busy flying a de Havilland Rapide taking people on pleasure flights to experience the thrill of a 1930s aerial carriage. Meanwhile, John Dodd was flying BAC Jet Provost T5A G-JPRO, firstly on a recurrency flight and then on a formation photo sortie with the Avro Vulcan to gain some air-to-air shots. Jon Corley was flying the de Havilland Venom 'WR470' carrying out some circuits, and then later on he swapped over to the Avro Anson WD413, again for some circuits to get some air beneath the wings before she retires to the hangar for the winter period.

2010-09-18

Southport Airshow ...

Today John Dodd had the rare opportunity to land Air Atlantique's de Havilland Rapide G-AGTM on the Beach at Southport as part of the airshow. He lead a formation display of Rapide, Fox Moth and Tiger Moth, all significant aircraft to Southport Beach as they were representative of the types that operated from there in the past. In fact the Fox Moth G-ACEJ was based at Southport Beach and carried out pleasure flights there for many years.

Also at the airshow was AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley. He was flying one of the Venoms which carried out a simulated beach attack in conjunction with aircraft from the Army Historic Aircraft Flight. Their DHC-2 Beaver had landed on the beach, where it was taken over by the enemy. Meanwhile their Auster AOP9 carried out overhead surveillance and called in ground vehicles to attack. With the ground vehicles not having enough impact on the enemy, the Venoms were called in for an air to ground rocket attack, all simulated of course!

2010-07-25

Dakota test flight

AeroHeritage pilots Ben Cox and Jon Corley were the crew today for a post maintenance test flight on Air Atlantique Classic Flight's Douglas DC3 Dakota G-AMRA. The aircraft had recently had a new Pratt & Whitney R1830 radial engine fitted, and the engineers had made some adjustments to ensure all of the required power settings could be met.

All of the parameters required for the flight test were met, and the new engine behaved well throughout the flight. Hopefully both engines will prove to behave for many more hours to come.

2010-07-24

Back to the Beech ...

This weekend Jon again had the pleasure of flying the Beech H18 N663TB from North Weald Airfield down to La Rochelle to drop off the aircraft owner and then return home. Due to North Welad closing in the evening, the aircraft was flown to Jon's home airfiled at Coventry and then repositioned back to North Weald the next day.

While he had a few moments at North Weald he took some time to look around some of the other classic aircraft in the the hangars, such as Jet Provosts, Strikemasters, and the mighty Catalina (previously run by AeroHeritage pilot John Dodd, see April 25th)

2010-07-18

La Rochelle Beech ...

Jon Corley was apparently working today, when he took a Beech 18 to La Rochelle for the weekend, not sure if that really qualifies for work!

The weekend started with Jon flying Beech H18 N663TB from North Weald down to White Waltham to collect the aircraft's owner and his family. From there a non-stop flight to sunny La Rochelle to stay the night. The next day was a little easier, just returning the aircraft and owner back to North Weald ready for its next trip.

This Beech 18 is different to the 'traditional' Beech 18 in that it has the Volpar nosewheel modification. This particular aircraft was built in the factory with the Volpar nosewheel modification, and not converted from a tailwheel version.

2010-07-14

Dakota home ...

Ben Cox and Jon Corley were both busy today repositioning Douglas Dakota G-AMPY back to its base at Coventry from Norwich were it had been left after a problem with the port engine. Ben Cox had been over to Norwich previously in the week to replace a cylinder on the port engine, and to ensure the aircraft was ready for its flight back.

A Partenavia P.68 G-BFBU was used as a taxi to ferry Ben and Jon over to Norwich, and also as a support aircraft in case any problems devleoped on the way home. Thankfully the flight was uneventful.

2010-07-10

Yeovilton Venom ...

Jon Corley took part in the Yeovilton Air Day 2010 today in de Havilland Venom FB.1 WK436. The Venom was there to represent the Sea Venom which was operated by the Royal Navy in the 1950s. Unfortunately there aren't any airworthy Sea Venoms left in the UK.

The day started with an early morning to get to Yeovilton in time for the aircrew briefing, an essential briefing that every display pilot in the show must attend.

Jon then displayed the Venom in a solo display towards the end of the show, leading up to the big finale of the assault role demo. After landing it was a quick refuel, then fly back to the aircraft's base at Coventry.

2010-07-07

Spray training ...

Jon Corley and Ben Cox were both involved in carrying out spray training today in DC3 G-AMPY. This training was carried out by Atlantic Training Support, and covered all the necessary skills required to carry out the spraying task for the purposes of controlling oil pollution within the seas around the United Kingdom.

The training was carried out from Norwich airport which meant minimal time would be required to transit to a location over the sea where the training would commence.

2010-07-06

DC-3 spray test ...

Today Ben Cox and Jon Corley carried out some essential checks on the equipment fitted to Douglas DC-3 G-AMPY. The aircraft is fitted with a system for spraying oil dispersant for the purposes of pollution control in the seas around the United Kingdom.

Two flights were carried out, the first as an initial test on a new part within the spray system bringing all of the pipework up to its working pressure, and the second flight was a complete test of the system to ensure it was effective at delivering the desired product.

2010-07-05

Waddington returns ...

Jon Corley was back to Waddington again, this time to collect the aircraft that had been on static display there. The 'taxi' from Coventry to Waddington was in the form of Percival Prentice VR259 again, which took several pilots over to collect some aircraft.

Jon initially flew dehavilland Venom FB.1 WR470 back to its base at Coventry, before being brought back again in the Prentice to collect Douglas DC-3 G-AMRA which was positioned back to its base with Air Atlantique at Coventry.

2010-07-04

Waddington display ...

AeroHeritage pilots Jon Corley and John Dodd were both taking part in the Waddington air display this weekend. John Dodd was flying the de Havilland Dragon Rapide G-AIDL painted up as a Dominie TX310, and Jon Corley was flying de Havilland Venom FB.1 G-VENM.

Although originally booked to take part in the main display, due to a full schedule several acts had to be cut including the Venom and Rapide. However, both aircraft were still to take part in the flypast celebrating 90 years since RAF Hendon's first display. This flypast was carried out on both days of the airshow.

Upon the early return to Coventry the opportunity was taken to carry out some recurrency training for Jon Corley on the Jet Provost T5 G-JPRO, and also John Dodd flew one of the Classic Flight Club 'Gold Members' in the Jet Provost. See www.classicflightclub.com for more details.

2010-06-29

Position to Waddo ...

Jon Corley was very busy today flying for Air Atlantique. The task for the day was to position a DC-3, a dehavilland Devon, and a dehavilland Venom to RAF Waddington ready to be on static display this coming weekend. The company's Percival Prentice G-APJB was used as an air taxi to ferry Jon and other members of the Air Atlantique team back to its base at Coventry.

The day started with Robin G-BVMM which was used to position Jon to Halfpenny Green to collect the Percival Prentice and bring it back to Coventry. From here Jon then took the Devon G-DHDV to RAF Waddington, whilst a training flight was carried out on the Prentice to Waddington to collect Jon. This process was then repeated with Jon flying the Venom to RAF Waddington, and again with Douglas DC-3 G-AMRA.

By the end of the day, Jon had flown 5 different aircraft types; piston engine, jet engine, tailwheel, nosewheel, fast, slow, large and small.

2010-06-28

Dakota training renewal ...

Today Jon Corley was flying Douglas DC-3 G-AMPY carrying out some training renewal flights with Atlantic Training Support and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Thankfully the flights went well and by the end of the day the training renewals had been completed.

2010-06-27

Wolverhampton pleasure ...

Jon Corley was flying DH89 Dragon Rapide G-AIDL carrying out pleasure flights at Wolverhampton (Halfpenny Green) today, celebrating 100 years of flying at Wolverhampton. Unfortunately due to England playing Germany in the World Cup, the attendance figures were lower than expected for such a glorious summers day but even so a reasonable amount of pleasure flights were carried out.

2010-06-25

Bride's flight ...

Today Jon Corley had the pleasure of flying a bride to her wedding. de Havilland Fox Moth G-ACEJ was the carriage of choice to fly the bride from the art deco terminal building at Sywell Aerodrome in Northampton down to the historic airfield of Old Warden where she was to be married.

Before departing Sywell the opportunity was taken to have some photos taken of the aircraft with the 2 Riley cars that were being used to take the bridesmaids to the wedding.

It was a beautiful day, for a beautiful bride.

2010-06-22

Swiss DC-3 ...

For the past 2 days Jon Corley has been assisting the Super Constellation Organisation by flying their DC-3 HB-IRJ at Buochs in Switzerland. The aircraft is sponsored by well known watch makers Breitling, and a corporate event had been set up by Breitling of which the DC-3 was taking part.

The stunning scenery of the mountains around the area gave the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event. Other aircraft at the event included the Breitling jet display team with their Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatross aircraft, the Breitling Wingwalkers (AeroSuperBatics) in their Boeing Stearmans, also Pitts Specials, SIAI Marchetti SF260s, Pilatus Porter, and others. All of these aircraft are proud to be sponsored by Breitling. Next week AeroHeritage pilot John Dodd will be taking over from Jon to allow him to fulfil other commitments.

2010-06-20

Cotswold Airshow ...

Both John Dodd and Jon Corley spent the weekend as guests of Cotswold Airshow held at Kemble in Gloucestershire, where they were display several aircraft.

John Dodd performed an excellent solo aerobatic display in the Jet Provost T5A and also flew as co-pilot in Douglas C-47 N1944A on both days of the airshow.

Meanwhile Jon Corley was flying a 2 ship aerobatic display in one of the pair of DH112 Venom FB.1s, and also flew the DH89 Dragon Rapide in the Battle of Britain scenario where he was shot down by a Messerschmitt 108 (only pretending obviously!). A couple of heroes in their Hawker Hurricanes saved the day as they were scrambled out to take out the 108. Initially the Avro Anson was scheduled to be the victim of the Messerschmitt, but despite the efforts of the engineering team involved they couldn't get the aircraft airworthy in time for the display slot.

2010-06-18

Jets to Kemble ...

Both John Dodd and Jon Corley were in ex-military jets today, on their way to the Cotswold Airshow at the former Red Arrows base of Kemble in Gloucestershire. John Dodd was flying Air Atlantique's Jet Provost G-JPRO XW433 and Jon Corley was in their Venom G-DHVM WR470 in formation with Venom G-VENM WK436.

The weather wasn't particularly good and meant that the flights had to be delayed while some rain showers passed through, but thankfully all the aircraft managed to get there ready for the display the next day.

John Dodd also carried out a practise display at Kemble, as due to the aircraft only being issued a Permit to Fly that morning he needed to carry out some essential practice to ensure himself and the aircraft are prepred for the display the next day.

2010-06-17

Final Jet Provost test ...

Today John Dodd flew with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approved test pilot in Air Atlantique's Jet Provost T.5A XW433, to carry out the final items required from the Flight Test Schedule which will enable the CAA to issue the aircraft's Permit to Fly.

The flight took place from AIRBASE, Air Atlantique's visitors centre based at Coventry. The results from the check flight were all acceptable which will hopefully mean the aircraft will have its permit issued tomorrow, in time for John to display it at the Cotswold Airshow this weekend.

2010-06-16

More radar trials ...

Today Jon Corley has been flying Douglas DC-3 G-ANAF, which is fitted out as a radar trials aircraft operated by RVL Aviation.

Two flights were carried out, the first to calibrate the sensitive radar equipment against known objects, and the second flight was to carry out a radar trial in the South of England to see how the equipment performed.

The flight was thankfully uneventful, and essential data has been gathered on the radar system to help its future development.

2010-06-13

Venom duo ...

Today the only 2 airworthy Venoms in England flew together at the DH Moth Charity Flying day at RAF Halton, and also at RAF Cosford Airshow, with AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley at the controls of one of them, the other being flown by retired Royal Navy pilot John Beattie.

Having the 2 Venoms flying together is a costly exercise and doesn't happen that often, so the opportunity was taken to arrange an air-to-air photo shoot en-route to RAF Halton, of which Richard Paver managed to take some excellent shots.

After landing back at Coventry for a refuel and a quick bit to eat, the 2 Venoms were off again to perform their display at RAF Cosford and also a flypast at a Steam Rally for North Worcestershire Vintage Tractor and Engine Club.

2010-06-07

de Havilland classics ...

2 de Havilland classic aircraft were flown today by AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley. First was the venerable DHC-1 Chipmunk, flown from its base at Coventry Airport with Air Atlantique. The positioning flight to North Weald was used to carry out some consolidation training for an Air Atlantique pilot who has just completed his initial checkout on the Chipmunk.

From North Weald Jon changed his mindset into flying another classic de Havilland type, the DH112 Venom. The aircraft had been at Weald Aviation for a major maintenance inspection and flight test, which with some minor rectification was released to service ready for its display season. The Venom was flown back to Coventry via Duxford where Jon carried out a practise display.

2010-06-06

Scottish weather ...

As forecast, the weather at Perth today can only be described as miserable. With the cloud not raising much above 500' all day, the attendance at the event wasn't anywhere near what was hoped for. Despite the low attendance and the low cloudbase most of the airshow acts managed to complete their display routine, including Jon Corley in the Anson.

Once the display had finished Jon then had to make the decision whether to stay at Perth for the night or head back to Coventry that day. After careful studies of the weather it was decided to route back to Coventry via the East coast of Scotland and England avoiding any high ground until the weather lifted enough to continue inland. By the time he reached Yorkshire the weather was gradually getting better allowing Jon to continue visually overland back to the aircraft's base.

2010-06-05

Perth Airshow ...

Glorious weather graced the skies of Scotland today, where Jon Corley was displaying the Avro Anson belonging to Air Atlantique Classic Flight. It was the first time Jon had displayed at Perth, but is looking forward to hoefully displaying there again next year. The other display pilots, ground crew, and management team that ran the event, were extremely helpful and made the airshow a nice venue to display at.

Jon displayed the Anson to the crowds showing off its unmistakeable shape, and unforgettable sound of the Cheetah engines. Lots of positive feedback was given from the crowd as they waved to Jon as he taxied back in.

The weather for tomorrow isn't looking so nice!

2010-06-04

Multi-engine tailwheels ...

A day full of multi-engine tailwheel flying for AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley today. The first 3 flights of the day were in Douglas DC-3 G-AMPY (KK116), initially taking off from Coventry to Northampton (Sywell). From here a licence proficiency check was carried out on another DC3 pilot, utilising Jon's Type Rating Examiner qualification. The flight consisted of simulated emergencies, a check of abnormal procedures, and instrument approaches carried out at Cranfield, before returning to Sywell to end the check flight. From here the aircraft was positioned back to its Coventry base.

After a brief lunch break Jon was back into a multi-engine tailwheel aircraft again, this time in the form of Avro Anson C.21 G-VROE (WD413). The aircraft was positioned to Perth (Scone) airfield which took a total of 2 hours and 5 minutes, ready for the Heart of Scotland airshow the next day.

2010-06-02

Pre-war fly-in ...

After the British Summertime mist lifted from the airfield at Rendcomb, Ben Cox started off the day by leading a formation of 5 pre-war aircraft to West Tisted. Jon Corley was flying DH83 Fox Moth G-ACEJ, other aircraft in the formation included a Gipsy Moth and Chilton DW.1 G-AESZ.

All the aircraft arrived safely at the pre-war fly-in, which was attended by approximately 100 aircraft, all of which were initially built before 1939.

2010-06-01

Weather to fly ...

AeroHeritage pilots Ben Cox and Jon Corley were both flying vintage de Havilland aircraft today, attempting to get them to a private farmstrip at West Tisted to attend an invitation only pre-war aircraft fly-in. Jon positioned DH83 Fox Moth from a private farmstrip near Bristol to Rendcomb, to meet up with other classic aircraft to fly on in formation to the event at West Tisted.

Despite a couple of attempts, unfortunately the weather wasn't good enough to make it to the destination due to low cloud around Marlborough, so all aircraft returned to Rendcomb to wait for nicer weather the next day.

2010-05-31

Avro shakedown ...

After some extensive engineering work AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley was tasked with carrying out a shakedown flight on Air Atlantique's Avro Anson C.21 to ensure all systems were functioning correctly.

The flight was a brief one due to the fact that the undercarriage, which is hydraulically operated, failed to retract. This was later found to be a minor problem on the hydraulic system which was rectified before the next flight was to take place.

2010-05-21

Dragon Check Flight ...

Today Jon Corley carried out a Certificate of Airworthiness Check Flight on de Havilland Dragon Rapide G-AGTM. The check flight has to be carried out every 3 years to ensure the aircraft still meets all of its performance figures.

All of the AeroHeritage pilots hold an authorisation from the CAA to carry out check flights on a multitude of different aircraft, large or small. Visit our Check Flight page for more details.

2010-05-18

Escorting an American ...

Jon Corley flew de Havilland Dove G-DHDV from Coventry to Exeter today, to meet and escort the Howard 500 N500LN back to Coventry.

Engineers have been working hard over the last few weeks to bring the Howard up to a ferryable condition ready to fly to Coventry to carry out a major maintenance inspection.

As it had been nearly 10 years since it last flew, the decision was made to have another aircraft escort it back to Coventry to take care of the navigation, radio telephony and airspace clearances, allowing the Howard pilot to concentrate on the aircraft and its systems.

2010-05-12

Ground training …

The essential thing before jumping into an aircraft for the first time is to make sure you’ve covered everything on the ground first. Today was used just for that purpose, as AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley was training a new pilot on a de Havilland Rapide.

The ground training consisted of technical briefing on the aircraft and its systems, a detailed pre-flight walk around, standard operating procedures, emergency procedures, taxiing, and the specific gotchas of operating this type of aircraft.

Thankfully the student performed well, and will progress onto flying the aircraft at the next available opportunity.

2010-05-09

Great Vintage Flying … Day …

Due to poor weather on the Saturday the Great Vintage Flying Weekend (G-VFWE) at Kemble was a non-starter for AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley. Thankfully the Sunday weather was much better, and Jon attended the event with one of Air Atlantique’s Dragon Rapides, to carry out pleasure flying.

The transit to and from Kemble gave the perfect opportunity for some formation practice as well as some air-to-air photography. The other aircraft in the formation were Air Atlantique’s Percival Prentice and de Havilland Chipmunk. These 3 aircraft offer pleasure flights throughout the country, visit their website for more information.

2010-05-07

de Havilland or Cessna …

AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley was busy today flying a de Havilland DH104 Dove to North Weald and back training a new volunteer pilot for Air Atlantique Classic Flight.

Once back at Coventry and the student had been debriefed, Jon then jumped into a Cessna 310 to reposition it to White Waltham near London, ready for the owner to collect it the next day.

The day ended for Jon by flying home in DHC-1 Chipmunk G-APLO, arguably one of his favourite aircraft to fly!

If it’s a choice of de Havilland or Cessna, de Havilland definitely wins!

2010-04-29

Classic groundwork …

Its not always flying for AeroHeritage. Today some engineering work was carried out on Chilton DW.1 G-AFGI based at White Waltham. Its wings had recently undergone a complete rebuild by AeroHeritage pilot/engineer Ben Cox, and today were refitted and rigged back onto the fuselage with the assistance of John Dodd.

John also took the opportunity at White Waltham to carry out some work on his classic Pitts S1C biplane G-OSIC, getting it ready for a summer season practising aerobatics.

2010-04-27

Douglas, de Havilland, Piper …

A day packed full of flying today for AeroHeritage pilots John Dodd and Jon Corley on a variety of classic vintage aircraft.

The day started with John Dodd positioning Douglas C-47 N1944A from Kemble to Coventry for a recurrency training flight. From here the pilots jumped into Air Atlantique’s de Havilland Dove G-DHDV to allow the engines to bed in after some maintenance work, and also to carry out some refresher training. This flight took the guys to East Kirkby where they then embarked on another Douglas C-47 for a training flight, this time N473DC belonging to Dakota Heritage. After an hour of flying instrument approaches at Humberside airport, that aircraft landed back at its East Kirkby base.

Back into the Dove to Coventry, then back into N1944A to Kemble, and then John Dodd flew Piper Cub G-BPYN from Kemble to its base at White Waltham. A full day of classic flying!

2010-04-26

Trainer delights …

Today John Dodd has been flying a variety of classic training aircraft. The day started by flying Piper J-3 Cub G-BPYN from its base at White Waltham up to the historic airfield at Duxford in Cambridgeshire.

From here John carried out some display practice in Aircraft Restoration Co’s Harvard G-BGPB ‘Taz’ ready for this coming display season, when John is hoping to be able to display this classic warbird trainer.

Also while at Duxford John carried out a pre-purchase check flight on de Havilland DHC-1 Chipmunk G-BXCP. This was carried out for a customer looking to purchase the aircraft and needed an experienced pilot to put it through its paces to ensure it is up to scratch!

AeroHeritage pilots can carry out pre-purchase check flights on a multitude of classic and vintage aircraft, see our Check Flight page for more details.

2010-04-25

Gathering of Warbirds …

Douglas DC3 Dakota G-AMPY (KK116) belonging to Air Atlantique Classic Flight had its post maintenance shakedown flight today, with AeroHeritage pilots Jon Corley and Ben Cox at the controls. The aircraft flew to North Weald where the ‘Gathering of Warbirds & Veterans’ was held. The event was held to raise money for ‘Help the Heroes’ and the ‘Sydney Camm Commemorative Society’, and was supported by a number of operators of vintage aircraft.

AeroHeritage pilot John Dodd was also present at the event with Consolidated Catalina N423RS carrying out engine runs for the spectators to see. It is hoped that this aircraft will be restored to airworthy condition in the near future.

2010-04-24

Spitfires and Stearman …

AeroHeritage pilot John Dodd helped out at the Aircraft Restoration Co at Duxford today, where members of the Spitfire Society visited the facility, after their AGM which was held nearby.

John also became a useful pair of hands as a flight test needed to be carried out on a Boeing Stearman. He is current on Stearmans and is authorised by the Civil Aviation Authority to carry out check flights on them, so he seemed the perfect choice.

A day at Duxford wouldn’t have been complete for John without a trip in the Harvard, and this day was no exception. The Harvard was flown to North Weald and back to help with the positioning of the Spitfires for the ‘Gathering of Warbirds’ event the next day.

2010-04-22

American classics …

Today John Dodd flew a Piper Cub over to the old World War Two airfield at North Weald in Essex. The aircraft was to stay there for a few days, as John had flown in to collect Beech 18 N663TB and take it back to White Waltham ready for the next day’s flying.

This Beech 18 is an unusual sight in England, as it is currently the only one flying which has the Volpar nosewheel conversion. Some people do not like the conversion, it may not be as pretty, but it is more practical allowing higher crosswind landings. In the air she flies just the same!

2010-04-21

Dakota shakedown …

A post maintenance shakedown flight was carried out on DC3 N1944A today by AeroHeritage pilots John Dodd and Jon Corley.

The flight started from Kemble in Gloucestershire where the aircraft is based with a Harvard and Mk.1 Spitfire. The flight routed to the North West towards Wales before routing South and eventually ending up back at Kemble without any faults occurring on the flight.

More flights in this immaculate DC3 are planned for the coming season.

2010-04-17

The Moths are coming out …

With the best flying day of the year so far it only seemed right to make best use of it. With this in mind AeroHeritage pilots took the opportunity to fly a couple of pre war Moths, namely a de Havilland DH87 Hornet Moth and a de Havilland DH83 Fox Moth.

The Hornet Moth was repositioned from a private strip in Gloucestershire to Warwickshire by Ben Cox, and the Fox Moth was flown to Oaksey Park for fuel and crew training, before returning to a private strip near Bristol.
Fantastic weather for some fantastic flying!

2010-04-14

For the wings of a Dove …

Some Classic training was carried out today on Air Atlantique Classic Flight’s de Havilland DH104 Dove G-DHDV. AeroHeritage pilot Ben Cox was given some refresher training by fellow pilot Jon Corley, ready for any flights that may happen this summer season.

The flight was operated out of Coventry Airport and then took the pilots over the Warwickshire countryside towards Northamptonshire, before returning to Coventry for some circuit practice.

It was the first flight for the aircraft this year after some engineering work had been carried out over the winter period, thankfully the aircraft systems all functioned correctly.

2010-04-11

Historic paradropping …

This weekend AeroHeritage has had the privilege to be involved in paradropping from a Douglas DC-3 Dakota. “Drag ‘em oot” operated by Dakota Heritage was flown from its Lincolnshire base to Groningen in Holland, with AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley at the controls.

5 drops were carried out over the weekend, with all the paras wearing period uniforms and using round chutes, the same as they were 65 years ago. Thankfully all of the paras landed on their desired target, a testament to the knowledge and skill of the jumpmaster.

2010-04-07

The season is here …

Now the weather is starting to become more favourable the aircraft are being pulled out of the hangars ready for some training to be carried out.
Today AeroHeritage pilots John Dodd and Jon Corley carried out their required flight tests in a Dragon Rapide with an examiner to enable them to fly the Rapide for commercial pleasure Flights for Air Atlantique Classic Flight.

Due to the current closure of Coventry Airport where Air Atlantique are based, the training flights had to be carried out from nearby Wellesbourne Airfield who seemed more than happy to have a Dragon Rapide flying around the circuit.

2010-04-06

Checking a Chippy …

AeroHeritage pilot John Dodd was at Duxford today carring out a pre-purchase check flight on de Havilland Chipmunk G-BXDI, ensuring the aircraft performs to an acceptable standard for a potential buyer.

AeroHeritage pilots can carry out pre-purchase check flights on a multitude of classic and vintage aircraft, see our Check Flight page for more details.

2010-04-04

JP check flight …

Today AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley teamed up with an experienced test pilot to carry out a Permit to Fly check flight on Jet Provost T.5A G-JPRO belonging to Air Atlantique Classic Flight.

The aircraft hadn’t flown in 2 years with the exception of the positioning flight from its maintenance base at Kemble to its operating base at Coventry. Only a few minor snags were found with the aircraft which performed well and met all the criteria required to be issued with a Permit to Fly.

Training can be given in this aircraft, and others, visit our Jet Conversion page here to find out more information on how you can experience the thrill of a fast jet!

2010-04-01

Flight with Authority …

AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley carried out a proving flight in a Dragon Rapide today with a Flight Operations Inspector from the Civil Aviation Authority. This should enable Air Atlantique Classic Flight to be issued with an Air Operators Certificate (AOC) to allow them to carry fare paying passengers for the next 12 months.

Meanwhile another pilot from AeroHeritage was out having some fun in North American Harvard FH153 G-BBHK, carrying out some practice displays at Kemble airfield in Gloucestershire.

2010-03-23

Slow prop, fast jet …

AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley carried out a final navigation check on an Air Atlantique Prentice pilot today, who thankfully passed with flying colours. The flight was carried out from Coventry to North Weald, where Jon was dropped off to collect the de Havilland Venom G-VENM, from Weald Aviation.

The Venom had been positioned here earlier in the month for some rectification work to be carried out on the fuel system, the engineers had done an excellent job of fixing the problem.
Jon carried out some practice ‘flat display’ manoeuvres at North Weald in the Venom before continuing the flight back to the aircraft’s base at Coventry with the Air Atlantique Classic Flight.

2010-03-11

Training a Prentice …

Over the last couple of days AeroHeritage pilot Jon Corley has been training a new pilot to fly Air Atlantique Classic Flight’s Percival P.40 Prentice G-APJB.

The ‘a prentice’ pilot was already familiar with tailwheel operations, so the training just consisted of a conversion onto the type, and also some standards training enabling the pilot to fly to the high standards required by Air Atlantique for all its pilots.
Hopefully the Prentice will be carrying out many more flights this summer season.

2010-03-02

Classic jet, classic car, classic prop ...

Venom G-VENM belonging to Air Atlantique Classic Flight was to be repositioned by Jon Corley from Coventry to North Weald today to have some rectification work carried out on the fuel system by Weald Aviation.

The morning looked typically British with thick fog looming over the Midlands, but by 10:00 we had clear blue skies that pilots dream of.

The aircraft was successfully flown to North Weald, where Jon was met by fellow Aero Heritage pilot John Dodd with his Morgan classic car. From here a drive up the M11 to Duxford, where John Dodd was to do some display practice in Aircraft Restoration Co’s T-6 Harvard G-BGPB.

John Dodd flew 2 successful display practices over the countryside, with Jon Corley taking notes and video in the back for debriefing purposes.

2010-02-25

Weathered off …

The plan for today was to carry out refresher training on the de Havilland DH104 Devon for a pilot at Air Atlantique Classic Flight. Unfortunately due to the wintry weather and the fact that the aircraft is not equipped for flying in icing conditions we had to cancel the training sortie. Better to be on the ground wishing we were in the air, than to be in the air wishing we were on the ground!

2010-02-19

Display training season is here …

It is that time of year when there is a glimmer of hope for suitable weather for display pilots to go out and start practicing. Aero Heritage pilots John Dodd and Jon Corley were at Duxford today to carry out some display practice in Aircraft Restoration Co’s T6 Harvard G-BGPB. John Dodd was flying the aircraft practicing aerobatic manoeuvres at high level over the Cambridgeshire countryside, whilst Jon Corley assisted by logging entry/exit speeds and heights, and maintaining a good lookout for other aircraft. All-in-all a fun day was had, and some vital practice was gained.

2010-02-11

Venom there, Venom back ...

Today was a swapover of de Havilland Venoms for Air Atlantique Classic Flight, flown by Aero Heritage pilot Jon Corley. Venom G-DHVM was flown from Coventry to North Weald for its annual maintenance check with Weald Aviation, where the aircraft was swapped with G-VENM which has just had its annual maintenance check completed.

2010-02-10

Radar trials …

Aero Heritage pilot Jon Corley was flying the DC3 again today, this time for RVL Aviation along with RVL’s resident DC3 pilot Ben Cox. The venerable DC3 G-ANAF is used for radar trials with its numerous mounting positions for radar systems on–board. Today’s sortie was only testing the system on the ground, but a quiet airfield was needed where we could block the runway all morning whilst carrying out checks. Thankfully Deenethorpe were very accommodating and allowed us to successfully carry out the trial. A successful day, albeit very cold!

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- a selection of news articles relating to Aero Heritage and our team.