Movie Briefing - ‘The Blue Max’

I first saw this movie soon after it was released in 1966 and I enjoyed it as much today as I did then.

This movie has a compelling story line and looks at some of the dynamics that changed many glorified Knights of the Air into the cold-blooded killers that ‘total’ war demanded.

The Blue Max was Germany’s top medal at that time and has an interesting history all of its own – the inscription is Pour Le Merite.

The flying sequences are superb. There is a replica Pfalz (which currently lives in New Zealand at the Omaka Heritage Collection). replica SE5s, Fokker DVIIs and Triplanes. When massed aircraft are required the ubiquitous Tiger Moth fills in for both British and German machines.

If you have seen the BBC series Piece of Cake, you will probably remember a bridge
scenario in an early episode.
I think its forerunner may well have come from this movie. Derek Piggott MBE, known to glider pilots everywhere flew the Blue Max scenes.

I read a review on wikipedia that says Richard Bach was also one of the unaccredited pilots but I can’t find this reference in any of Bach’s books. He does mention piloting in Von Richtofen and Brown – “I shot down the Red Baron, and so what.” which sounds like an excellent companion DVD to the Blue Max. It has just been re-released in the US
Wikipedia also credits much of the stunt flying to Derek Piggott

If you like the movie and are interested in WW1 aircraft you might find the Aircraft Recording CD’s of interest:

Wind In The Wires

Sounds of Ghosts of the Great War

And if you really want to get in the mood you could always consider an Open Cockpit Flying Scarf!

Best Museum In The World?

Sydney Morning Herald travel writer Bruce Elder has recently visited the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and has written in his on-line blog:
"The best Museum in the World? I am not exaggerating."


Lift-off Was December 8th 2006

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was officially opened in Marlborough on the 8th December 2006; unveiling a unique visitor attraction and significant asset for the region.

Entitled “Knights of the Sky”, the opening exhibition includes one of the world's largest private collections of rare WW1 aircraft that are presented in dramatic tableaux to spectacular effect.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is the product of more than a decade of collaborative activity amongst Marlborough aviation enthusiasts. They have been propelled by a common vision: that the region's nucleus of aircraft enthusiasts, rare aeroplanes, specialist aviation skills, coupled with the historical significance of the Omaka Aerodrome - could become the foundation for a 'flying heritage centre' which would be the focal point for a broad spectrum of aviation activity bringing economic benefit to the region.

Their vision received strong support from the Marlborough District Council and Marlborough Regional Development Trust, both of whom recognised aviation as a key driver in Marlborough's economy and successfully applied to NZ Trade and Enterprise for a Major Regional Initiative grant to build Stage One of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.

Stage One, which opened on the 8th December 2006, occupies some 3,000 sqm of purpose-built display area and accommodates a collection of dramatically-staged static displays of original and replica aircraft along with flyable aeroplanes from the WW1 era. The collection is managed by the 14-18 Aviation Heritage Trust, which is chaired by film director Peter Jackson, and has been brought to life in a series of theatrical dioramas constructed with the artistic talent and technical expertise of some of New Zealand's most talented storytellers and special effects wizards.

Speaking at the launch event Mr Brian Greenall, Chairman of the New Zealand Aviation Heritage Trust, which operates the aviation heritage centre, said the Omaka attraction aims to be both educational and entertaining for all ages, while acting as catalyst to attract aviation business and investment to the Marlborough region.

As the centerpiece of the region's aviation cluster, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre forms the nucleus for a range of aviation-related businesses set to grow in the adjacent Aviation Business Park. These include aircraft restoration/painting/upholstery, vintage/warbird experience flights - even whole aircraft manufacture. Site preparation is currently underway for the establishment of the first five new hangars in the Aviation Business Park with construction due to commence before the end of the year.

Marlborough's tourism industry will also be a key benefactor. The rarity of the aircraft and world-class standard of creativity and craftsmanship of the Stage One exhibition will not only draw aviation enthusiasts from around the globe but will also extend the range of Marlborough's entertainment options for visitors of all ages and interests.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre will be open 7 days per week from 10am - 4pm and is located alongside the Omaka Aerodrome, approximately 5kms from the centre of Blenheim.


For further information, please contact:
Jane Orphan
Chief Executive, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
03 5791305
027 6777621
jane@omaka.org.nz

www.omaka.org.nz
(Words and pictures from www.omaka.org.nz)

We’ve Re-done the look of our website

We thought it was time to spruce up the Merchant website.
Let us know what you think, or if we’ve made any spelling mistakes or links that don’t work.
Just add a comment below.

Our Online Shop Is Go!

We can now complete secure transactions online, accepting all major credit cards and PayPal!

Morgan Motoring Company

Malvern Links
Worcestershire
England
November 2006


A long time ago a good friend of mine owned a Singer Roadster. The windscreen wipers only worked in manual mode, the hood leaked and I vaguely recall the brakes needed to be pumped to slow things down. Shortly after I bought it, the motor packed up.

But for all that, touring in the Singer was an experience I’ve never forgotten. So when two or three years ago I saw a Morgan on the front cover of a motor magazine and found they were still being made, further investigation was required. Not a Singer to be sure, but it is English, it looks like a 1950’s sport car and as only the English would imagine doing, much of the car is made out of wood!

As things sometimes happen, one thing leads to another and that same good friend and I recently visited the Morgan factory in Worcestershire. I need to add that we were staying with another good friend of my friend’s who also happens to be a person of some note in the Classic Motor Racing scene. I think he was somewhat skeptical of Morgan Motor cars as a modern day vehicle - but not to the point of not wanting to join us.

So off we went. Worcestershire, just west of the Cotswold’s, is beautiful at any time of year but especially in the late fall when the cold has scared away most of the tourists but means open fires in all good pubs.

The Morgan Motor Company http://www.morgan-motor.co.uk/home.html is the last privately owned car manufacturer in the UK. They make about 600 cars per year each one of which has been pre-ordered. There are three main models – the traditional two seater, a four seater version of the same, and a very much more modern Aero 8. 2008 will see a limited edition of the very classy Aeromax.

Selecting your model is only the start of the decision making process – just about everything bar the motor, the chassis and the framework is an option. As they told us, “ if someone makes the paint, you can have the colour”.

As you tour the factory (which you can now do virtually) you find yourself pinching yourself to make sure you aren’t dreaming the experience – yes, that really is a wood plane you are seeing over there – and yes, they really are hand beating the motor bonnet into shape!

Whilst this was going on I noticed our English friend, Chris, taking a close interest in the Aero 8. He said later he was impressed and coming from him that was rather more than faint praise.

All in all, if you have any interest in motor cars and happen to be in the UK, this is a visit you should try and make. The Morgan people will welcome you. And if you can arrange a test drive – well, I don’t really have enough superlatives.

What’s this got to do with aviation? I once read somewhere that sitting in the cockpit of a Morgan looking out over that long bonnet is about as close as you can come to looking out over the long nose of a Spitfire.

I now know what the Morgan is like …

Happy motoring!

Knights Of The Sky

Located at Marlborough's historically significant Omaka Aerodrome, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre was established to provide a world-class destination for the appreciation of historic aircraft.

For the opening exhibition in Stage One of Omaka, New Zealand's most respected cinematic and special effects craftsmen have created a dramatic aviation theatre in which original and full-scale replica WW1 aircraft - both static and flyable - are presented in all their glory.

Omaka's first exhibition, “Knights of the Sky”, occupies some 3,000 sqm of purpose-built display area. It comprises one of the world's largest collections of World War 1 aircraft and rare memorabilia, including a mix of dramatically staged static displays along with flyable planes.

The collection is managed by the 14-18 Aviation Heritage Trust, which is chaired by film director Peter Jackson, and has been brought to life in a series of theatrical dioramas constructed with the artistic talent and technical expertise of some of New Zealand's most talented storytellers.

The extensive dioramas take you back to a time long gone and almost forgotten when the harshness and cruelty of the war in the trenches contrasted with the chivalry and bravado of the war in the air. When SE5as and Fokker Triplanes went head to head; the steeds of these latter day knights of the air jousting for survival.

This spectacular multi-sensory experience, enhanced with special effects lighting is designed to be both educational and entertaining for all ages.

Sunshine, Vineyards and Classic Fighters

Omaka Aerodrome
Blenheim
New Zealand
Oct 08 – Oct 09


Blenheim, in Marlborough Province, is not only one of New Zealand’s sunniest places, and a major wine-producing centre; it is also a significant centre of NZ Aviation history.

We were there to pay a visit to Graham Orphan the editor of Classic Wings, (http://www.classicwings.com)
a founding member of The Aviation Heritage Centre (http://www.aviationmarlborough.com/ahc/index.shtml) and the owner of Classic Aircraft Sales Ltd (http://www.classicwings.com/sales.htm)

We were also there to confirm our attendance at Classic Fighters Marlborough 2007. (http://www.classicfighters.co.nz)

We’d hoped for maybe half an hour of Graham’s time, a look around the airfield and maybe a glimpse of some of the extensive WW1 aircraft collection that makes its home here.

What we got was so much more …

The Sunday we arrived turned out to be a practice day for those same WW1 fighters that we hoped to get a look at. Furthermore, at the airfield, we ran into Allan Udy one of the main AirShow organisers, and Alex Mitchell, a noted NZ aviation photographer (http://www.warbirdsovernewzealand.com/who.asp). Between the two of them they were able to arrange airfield access which let us get up close and personal with several of the aircraft operating that day. What a treat! Later, we met an RNZAF pilot who we had earlier seen doing his conversion and first flight in one of the Fokker Triplanes - his smile was worth a thousand words.

Allan, by the way, is also the Webmaster of the Classic Fighters website which contains much more than just event information. The annual Classic Fighters event is pretty much a ‘Must See’, but even if you can’t get there you should visit the website and sign up for Allan’s Newsletter. The enthusiasm is contagious, the photos are great and the history is fascinating. The address again is http://wwww.classicfighters.co.nz

That was the early part of our day. Later in the afternoon we had our appointment with Graham at the Aviation Heritage Centre The half hour we hoped for, stretched out to over 2 hours as we were given a preview of the Centre, a tour of some of the aircraft restoration work going on around the airfield, and a close look at Graham’s own projects both flying and on the workshop floor.

The Heritage Centre is scheduled to open on Dec 09 and it will be a very special addition to NZ’s aviation landscape. The first stage will feature the many WWI aircraft located at Omaka and with Peter Jackson involved somewhere in the background the exhibits are bound to be presented in an exciting and ‘illuminating’ way. Of interest to those who have seen the movie The Blue Max, will be the replica Pfalz flown in the movie by George Peppard. A replica that’s already historic!

Our tour continued with a visit to Graham’s personal collection of an Aeronca Champ and a Fleet Finch 16b, (both in flying order), a historic Aeronca K in the restoration process (http://www.classicfighters.co.nz/ac/aeroncak/index.shtml ) and pieces of a P40 Kittyhawk which (unbelievably to the uninitiated such as myself!) will one day take to the air again. Graham is also a part owner of a Nanchang CJ6 and a leading proponent of seeing more of these aircraft in NZ through syndicated ownership.

From there we visited several other impressive projects finishing with a visit to Mike Nichols and his Yak 3 and Curtiss Hawk 75 projects. This Hawk is one of only four surviving examples of its type and has a unique history which you can learn about at http://www.classicfighters.co.nz/ac/hawk75/index.shtml
Coincidently I had only just seen the only currently flying Hawk at the Lodrino Air Show. ( T link back to Lodrino Blog here )

As the afternoon wound to a close, Graham’s encyclopedic knowledge of the aviation world had filled our heads to overflow – which probably explains why his Classic Wings (one more link to Classic Wings here) magazine achieves the quality heights that it does – and it was time to head for a beer at the nearby and also historic Marlborough Aero Club (http://www.marlboroughaeroclub.co.nz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6&Itemid=47 )

It was here that aero club flying operations began in NZ and it was here that A.E Clouston and Victor Ricketts established aviation history with their England to NZ flight record.

What a great way to end a great day.

I’ll sign off with the reflection that this visit marked the closest we’ve been to so many restoration projects – the painstaking skills involved are very apparent and the rest of us less skilled enthusiasts are very lucky indeed that these individuals are doing what they do and that they provide or can find the necessary finance. We need to find ways to support their activities at every opportunity.

See you there next Easter.

Book Briefing - ‘The Dangerous Skies’

The Dangerous Skies – Air Commodore A.E. Clouston

This is a remarkable book by a remarkable man.

Clouston was a New Zealander who was, in turn, Test Pilot, Racing Pilot, Coastal Command Liberator Pilot, Air Commodore and just about everything else in between.

His book of high aviation adventure is written in four parts:

Test Pilot

Records And Races

Interlude For War

Graduation

Each part could be a book in its own right so varied were his experiences.

A highlight dear to New Zealanders (at least those who remember or have heard of the man) is the England – New Zealand – England record flight that he made in 1938. This flight was made with Victor Ricketts and in a DH 88 De Havilland Comet G-ACSS. (T – link ACSS to http://www.xs4all.nl/~tozu/dh88/Comets/GACSS.htm)
Some of the records made on this and a previous England – Cape Town flight still stand today. (T link here to http://records.fai.org/pilot.asp?from=ga&id=5932)

Interestingly, while there are several web sites that feature the Comet Racer, few mention Clouston's achievements with the Comet other than in passing. Perhaps those authors should read this book – it’s certainly a story worth the telling.

Other parts of the book include hair raising flight testing in the then little understood condition of ‘icing’, flying into wires to determine the effect of an aircraft flying into a barrage balloon and racing a Flying Flea.

What’s more the author’s writing style is very down to earth with more than a
touch of humour.

I could go on but I think you’ll get the picture – this is a must read for any aviation enthusiast.

First published in 1954 it is now out of print but fortunately second hand copies can still be had. The amazon.co.uk listings can be found here.

Aviodrome

National Aviation Theme Park
Lelystad Airport
The Netherlands
August 2006


Billed as a theme park, and listed as a tourist attraction, I found the Aviodrome a somewhat frustrating experience. But more on that later – for all my frustrations this museum has some fascinating stuff.

The B.A.T. FK 23 heads my list. The Netherlands was neutral in WWI – a lesser-known fact is that from that position they had two leading aircraft designers working for the opposing sides: Fokker for Germany, and Koolhoven for the British Aerial Transport Co. During his time there he designed the lovely to look at B.A.T FK 23. With a top speed of 142 mph and with the pilot uniquely located above the top wing of its biplane configuration this was an aircraft ahead of its time. By way of comparison the top speed of most of its contemporaries was a slow 116 – 119 mph (Camel and Fokker DVII respectively) with the Bristol Monoplane coming closest at 130 mph.

However a late introduction and an unreliable A.B.C. 1 Wasp power plant meant the FK23 was never to realize its potential.

More information on Koolhoven can be found at the excellent Koolhoven Foundation website http://www.koolhoven.com/

One of my small frustrations with the Aviodrome was that it seemed a little disjointed – a little of everything but no authoritative theme. I understand this is now being addressed with a focus being put on Dutch commercial aviation history – building on their already substantial collection this promises to be a treat.

You will already find: -

- The last flying DC 2 presented in scheme of ‘De Uiver’ the KLM winner of the Handicap Division of the 1934 London –Melbourne MacRobertson Air Race. See
http://www.dc3airways.com/1934-1.html

- A Lockheed Constellation that has just had all its engines started after some 3 yrs and all going well should be back in the air next year as the oldest flying example of its type.

- Several DC 3’s

- A brick by brick rebuild of the 1928 Schipol Terminal (worth a visit in its own right)

- A compulsory Fokker F27 Friendship

- A Fokker F2 and a very impressive Fokker F7A done up as KLM’s H-NADP which completed the world’s first Intercontinental Charter Flight in 1928 – Amsterdam to Batavia (now Djakarta)

A final fitting bit of airline trivia; KLM is world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name.

The Aviodrome has more aircraft – of interest to me there is or was, one lonely Spitfire parked outside which I think maybe the Spitfire that was recently swapped for a Firefly. (I’m not sure about this so if anyone can put me right please do) – and there is a newly acquired Catalina.


A full list of aircraft including those not on display can be found at http://www.aviodrome.nl/

Which brings me to my other frustration – admitting that my language skills are well below that of most Europeans – I was surprised that a Dutch attraction didn’t have more English interpretive material both at the museum and in its media offerings.

How to get there? Lelystad is about a 45 min train journey NNE of Amsterdam. There is then a wait for a bus to the airfield. A car would be preferable. Detailed directions – in English - will be found on their website.

Last but not least, the author of the Aviodrome and Koolhoven websites also has his own very fascinating website; Henri’s Aircraft You can spend many happy hours exploring both his site and the links he provides.

Enjoy!

Book Briefing - ‘A Gift Of Wings’

A Gift of Wings - Richard Bach

This collection of short stories is a book of aviation or rather flying philosophy. It’s to be read and reread by all who fly or aspire to fly. And some of the thoughts and views apply equally well to other endeavours. The book has many fans – here’s a French perspective - http://fafagege.free.fr/html/eng/index1.htm

~ Brian Sharpe

Book Briefing - ‘Enemy Coast Ahead’

Enemy Coast Ahead - Guy Gibson VC

I first read this classic some years ago but I recently spotted a copy in a second hand book store and with a Peter Jackson remake of The Dambusters in the pipeline I thought a refresher would be useful. Guy Gibson’s first hand and well written account of life in RAF Bomber Squadrons ( and a Night Fighter Squadron !) makes a riveting read as does his description of the Dam raids. What makes it especially fascinating is that it was written before many of the details were in the public domain. I’ve since seen that an Uncensored Edition has just been published. It always surprises me that just when you think you understand a certain subject along comes a new perspective that makes you think again. I’ll probably buy that new edition.

~ Brian Sharpe

Aviation Posters

We like Posters.

At their simplest they are an inexpensive, visually attractive and interesting way to decorate studies, offices , spare rooms and working rooms.

Some are substantial works of art in their own right – have them framed and they will grace any wall.

Still others are collectors items.

We have some of our own on our site already and we will be adding to this range.

But there are a lot more good Posters out there and to give you access to a more complete range we have joined the AllPosters.Com Affiliate Program.

The theme is aviation and we’ll be adding to our gallery of recommendations as time goes on.

Why not start here.

MOG Book Briefings

In the beginning, the Merchant Of Glenorchy was going to be the name for a small ‘new and second book’ shed in Glenorchy selling books that I thought were particularly good and including some of my own collection.

As you can probably guess this really wasn’t a very practical idea – even assuming prospective customers were able to find the place. Firstly what would I do when I ran out of books and secondly when it got right down to it I don’t think I could have parted with any books that I owned – not a sound basis for a bookshop!

But now we have a solution that allows us to have our cake and eat it! – we have joined the Amazon.co.uk affiliate program which enables us to recommend books that we particularly like and if others think they may share these likes, then this is an easy way to buy them. (I’ve literally spent years looking for some of the titles that we’ll be featuring.)

The book list will be small to begin with. New additions will be announced on the web log where I will give a brief review or ‘Briefing’ if you like, outlining why the book makes it on to my list.

The theme will be aviation with maybe the odd diversion if it seems appropriate.

We hope you will find this useful and, as always, comments and suggestions are welcomed.

Lodrino Sub Alpine Airshow

Switzerland
Sept 1 & 2, 2006


At Tannkosh we were located opposite to the friendly folk of the
Swiss P3 aerobatic display Team.

After one of their performances they dropped by our stand with a brochure for an Air Show in Lodrino and the suggestion that we might like to attend.

After much searching of our maps we finally located Lodrino in the far south of Switzerland, not that far from Milan. And I guess that’s pretty much where our Lodrino adventure began. We soon discovered that with Lodrino being very much in the Italian part of Switzerland neither Lillian’s German nor my English were going to be that helpful! But thanks to the patience of the organisers and the local tourist office we eventually got ourselves sorted and headed south, through Germany, Austria, Switzerland and eventually over the San Bernardino Pass to the small hillside village of Claro where we had arranged farmhouse accommodation.

The airfield was just up the road beside the Ticino River and set amidst some pretty impressive mountain scenery. ‘Eddy’ Reinhart, the communications man helped get us set up and the stage was set for a special experience.

On the Friday afternoon the flying participants began to arrive, many with an impromptu show. The UK Fighter Collection’s Griffon powered Spitfire Mark XIV, Mustang P51C and the rare Curtiss Hawk 75 were amongst those arrivals and with virtually no crowds around there was a great opportunity to see these wonderful aircraft at close quarters.

We also got a preview of Christian Moullec with his powered ultralight and formatting geese! This is only incidentally an Air Show performance – the driving force is a desire to save a rare species of a wild goose and Christain has undertaken this endeavour to help the geese with their migrations. You are encouraged to read more of this fascinating enterprise at www.vol-avec-les-oies.com.

So on to the Air Show itself. The weather forecast wasn’t the best but the worst never eventuated and we were blessed with two days of good flying weather. The Fighter Collections’ Warbirds were supplemented with a rare Morane D-3801, a beautifully restored Mitchell B 25 of the Swiss JAF http://www.jaf.ch and an ex Swiss Air Force Hawker Hunter.

Lots of aerobatics – from a Pitts right up to La Patrouille Suisse and the Breitling Jet Team. The latter two gave magnificent performances – how they manage to hold their formations so tight is a source of wonder. I’m not a great jet fan but I have to say these displays were something special.
Now, what I didn’t know as a new ‘kiwi’ spectator to the European Air Show circuit is that the crack display teams, or many of them at least, have their own fan clubs with all the supporting regalia! Creates a rugby game sort of an atmosphere.

You can get more info on these two teams at:
http://www.breitling-jet-team.com

http://www.armee.vbs.admin.ch/internet/armee/de/home/lvbfl/links/ps.html

Finally mention must be made of the P3 Flyers. These guys (and I think some gals) are the only civil P3 Team around and their enthusiasm is infectious. At Lodrino, they managed the flight line, did their displays and could be found every evening in front of the video / TV reviewing their performance.

And that exemplifies one of the things that’s so great about Air Shows - its obvious enjoyment for participants and spectators alike.

The Lodrino show is a direct descendent of a regular nineties Air Show that was held further up the same valley. It was very popular but needed to be moved due to lack of local support.

Let’s hope Lodrino doesn’t suffer a similar fate.

And if you are able to attend in future, leave yourself lots of time to explore the surroundings. The countryside, the history, the food and the wine - you won’t be disappointed.

Aircraft Recovery Group

Flensburg
August 2006


During the course of the Flensburg Airshow a Henk Korenromp paid us a visit. It turned out he is closely associated with the Aircraft Recovery Group based in Heemkerk , North Holland.

Their mission is: "To uphold the memory and the dedication of military personnel and civilian victims of the aerial war in the period between 1940 and 1945..."

To effect this mission they locate and recover the wreckage of aircraft downed over Holland during WWII. They then exhibit these artifacts together with their stories . The museum is the Luchtoorlogmuseum Fort Veldhuis.

I haven’t had the opportunity to visit this museum yet but I have paid a call at their website:

www.arg1940-1945.nl

Although the full version is in Dutch parts have been well translated into English. I found it fascinating as it helps brings to life those dark days in a way no other ‘media’ can.

There are no doubt other groups doing similar work and I’d be interested in any references and/or comments any of you may have.

Flensburg Airshow

Bordering Denmark and the beautiful Flensburg fiord, this is an attractive and atmospheric Airshow location. The show is held every second year and is a big event on the local calendar of activities.

This year, unfortunately, the weather gods decided not to co-operate and a wet, cold start to the day kept many spectators away. As it turned out the sun eventually broke through and an almost full flying program became possible. Too late to help the organisers – demonstrating the inherent risk in Airshow management – but at least it gave those spectators who persevered a show worth seeing.

Aerobatics and Wing walking supplied a wow factor; a Yak 11 provided the heavy metal.

But for me the real stars of the show were the classics: a beautifully prepared Beech 18 from Denmark, the lovely KZ IV also from Denmark (see my Stauning Blog), a magnificent 1936 Waco YKS-6 with an Alaskan history, a Beech Staggerwing, the Norwegian DC3 with a D-Day history and last but far from least a lovingly rebuilt 1933 Bucker Jungmann. It’s a privilege to see aircraft like this and sometimes it’s only after the event that you realise just what a privilege it was.

Off field and completely in keeping with all the European Air shows we’ve attended, the Friday night pilots’ party was a night to remember. Our minders, Maik and Stephen, arranged invites and I have to say that Kapt’n Kumos Marching Band turned on a memorable performance! All local music professionals, these guys and gals played a sort of German Dixieland (imagine, if you can, an oom pah pah version of When the Saints Go Marching In) that made your eyes water.

So that was Flensburg – I hope it can all be done again in two years time. Low gate takings this year and the only too typical debate between airfield users and Johnny come lately subdivision dwellers may dictate otherwise.

Let’s hope not – it would be a big loss.

M.O.G. Aviation Art

The MOG Aviation Art can now be purchased through our secure CafePress online store by credit card.
Our Aviation Art range will be expanding all the time with some exciting new NOSE ART works on the easel as we speak.

All works can be purchase in 4 formats:

Large Posters
Framed Prints
Mini Prints
&
Postcards (8 packs)

We are also keen for any suggestions of Aviation you’d like to see our artist create!
Just add a comment below and we’ll get the ball rolling.

Denmark and Aviation History

You may be surprised to learn that Denmark has a rich aviation heritage.

On September 12 1906 Jacob Ellehammer became the first man in Europe to make a powered flight. The location was the tiny island of Lindholm in southern Zeeland not that far from Copenhagen. Ellehammer was an accomplished inventor who came to his first powered aircraft via a motorcycle and engine of unique design.

Whilst there is no dispute that Ellehammer’s Sept 12 flight occurred.,there is controversy as to whether the ‘event’ actually qualified as a flight.
The aircraft was tethered and flew around a pole (over a distance of 140 ft and an altitude of about 1 – 1.5 ft) In the opinion of the Danish Flight Museum, Ellehammer’s flight cannot really be considered a true free flight, which leaves first European flight honours to either Trajan Vuia (France – Mar 18 1906) or Santos Dumont (France – Sept 13 1906).

But does it really matter? Those familiar with the early history of aviation will know that the annals are full of claims and counterclaims of ‘firsts’ but however you view these, you have to admire all those who tried and marvel at those who flew at all.

Which is a good point to further introduce the Danish Flight Museum. They aim to preserve Denmark’s aviation heritage from Ellehammer through to today and in doing so they intend to keep as many original aircraft flying as is possible. On display today are 48 aircraft, 17 of which are airworthy with many on regular Air Show duty.

There are many gems in the collection. My favourites are the KZ series of aircraft which were designed and built in Denmark over the period 1937 -1954. They are primarily sports or training aircraft built mainly of wood and canvas. Perhaps the most graceful of these is the KZ IV , a twin engined , twin tailed monoplane designed as an ambulance plane and used towards the end of the war by Swedish Count Bernadotte as a courier aircraft during peace negotiations. Only two of these craft were built and one still flies today as the museums flagship.

The museum’s and Denmark’s oldest flying airplane is a DH 87B Hornet Moth. This particular Moth was built in 1935 and first flew with the Kuala Lumpur Flying Club. If you’ve read Ken Follett’s book Hornet Flight you’ll appreciate both this aircraft and its location.

On the non-flying roster, a Hawker Danecock captures attention. This is a Hawker Woodcock modified to Danish specifications. Only 3 Danecocks were built (and only 64 Woodcocks for that matter) so, if like me you don’t have a ready recollection of the type its perhaps not surprising.

Turning to more recent times, the museum has only just opened a new hangar which houses a ‘cold war’ collection of aircraft that have served with the Royal Danish Air Force. These include a Republic F84F Thunderflash, a Mark 8 Meteor, an F86D Sabre and two mean but beautiful looking Draken F35s. Looking ahead, the museum has exciting plans to expand this collection, in fact some of the exhibits already have their display signs and allocated floor spaces! A Fairey Firefly is under restoration for viewing in 2009 but of possibly greater interest is a Republic F84G Thunderjet which rumour has it is being restored to an airworthy state by 2008.
Being a New Zealander its maybe easy to forget the intensity of the Cold War days of the 50s and 60s – not so for the Dane’s who were in the front line of those uncertain and trying times. This collection provides a thought-provoking memorial of that recent history.

As you will have gathered I think this museum is well worth making an effort to visit. And an effort you will have to make! The location is near the village of Stauning in mid Jutland. The nearest town of any size is Ringkobing and it’s about a 4-hour drive west of Copenhagen. If you are traveling with children the journey may not be that far off your itinerary – Legoland is close by.


The museum is open from May 1 to Oct 31. The best time to visit though is during July and August when they hold flying evenings every Thursday.

You can check out their website at http://www.flymuseum.dk - the main site is in Danish but there is a smaller English version. I’m assured this will be updated soon – just as soon as they can find the right volunteer!

M.O.G. 1941 Replica Solid Brass Zippo

This is an accurate replica of the great old 1941 Brass Zippo.
The M.O.G. log has been professionally engraved by the Zippo company in the U.S and reflects the traditional styling of bygone days.

Second World War fighter squadrons were often issued the windproof Zippo with their squadrons insignia on it.

The Zippo itself has history and reputation few companies can even compare too. You can read story after story online about their fascinating history.

We are very proud to now stock this great design success story. It is very possibly the perfect marriage of form & function. Zippo still, as it always has provides a lifetime guarantee on their wind proof lighters.

One of my favourite aspects of the Zippo is the look it gets over time after use. It’s just of of those beautifully weighted, nostalgic ,,,,,,,things.

Even the box it comes in is the traditional Art Deco packaging of the day. It really does makes for the perfect gift.

Tannkosh Airshow

Tannheim Airstrip
Tannheim
Bavaria
Germany
July 14 -16, 2006


During this hot summer weekend more than 1300 aircraft of all descriptions and from all over Europe, descended on the Tannheim airstrip for an annual festival of flying.

Billed as Tannkosh, the event pays its respects to its American inspiration – Oshkosh – and I imagine Tannkosh today is similar to what Oshkosh was in the beginning. A Fly In for flyers. There is no formal Air Show program as such – it’s more like a pilot saying I feel like doing my thing now and then doing it. And the performances exactly reflected the obvious enjoyment the pilots were having. Backing up the flying was a program of Workshops and, of course, a couple of awesome parties!

For me there were several memorable moments but the one that comes most to mind is sitting on the terrace on the Friday evening enjoying a fine Bavarian lager, talking with a flyer from Koln who had made the in bound flight in a home built that day, watching a graceful aerobatic display by an immaculately prepared Harvard. The only thing that would beat that would be flying the Harvard!

Tannkosh started in 1995, the brainchild and passion of the flying Dolderer family. It was Max Dolderer - who turned from farming to flying - who lay the foundations for the show 30 years ago by converting a field to an airstrip. Today Verena and Matthias Dolderer are in charge and are clearly keeping the tradition alive – the 1300 arrivals this year bettered last year’s numbers by almost 500.

As for the aircraft, it must be a plane spotters paradise, vintage, microlights, ultralights, powered gliders, warbirds and even a couple of gyrocopters. All beautifully prepared, all beautifully flown.

From a spectators perspective maybe the best day is Sunday when there is a constant stream of departing aircraft from virtually first light.

I imagine most will be returning next year and if you are interested you will be able to follow the build up at www.tannkosh.com. Or if you just want to go flying in a beautiful area with very hospitable hosts, check out http://www.edmt.de.

As they say at Tannheim, here’s to ‘blue skies and tailwinds’.

Tannkosh Airshow

Tannheim Airstrip
Tannheim
Bavaria
Germany
July 14 -16, 2006


During this hot summer weekend more than 1300 aircraft of all descriptions and from all over Europe, descended on the Tannheim airstrip for an annual festival of flying.

Billed as Tannkosh, the event pays its respects to its American inspiration – Oshkosh – and I imagine Tannkosh today is similar to what Oshkosh was in the beginning. A Fly In for flyers. There is no formal Air Show program as such – it’s more like a pilot saying I feel like doing my thing now and then doing it. And the performances exactly reflected the obvious enjoyment the pilots were having. Backing up the flying was a program of Workshops and, of course, a couple of awesome parties!

For me there were several memorable moments but the one that comes most to mind is sitting on the terrace on the Friday evening enjoying a fine Bavarian lager, talking with a flyer from Koln who had made the in bound flight in a home built that day, watching a graceful aerobatic display by an immaculately prepared Harvard. The only thing that would beat that would be flying the Harvard!

Tannkosh started in 1995, the brainchild and passion of the flying Dolderer family. It was Max Dolderer - who turned from farming to flying - who lay the foundations for the show 30 years ago by converting a field to an airstrip. Today Verena and Matthias Dolderer are in charge and are clearly keeping the tradition alive – the 1300 arrivals this year bettered last year’s numbers by almost 500.

As for the aircraft, it must be a plane spotters paradise, vintage, microlights, ultralights, powered gliders, warbirds and even a couple of gyrocopters. All beautifully prepared, all beautifully flown.

From a spectators perspective maybe the best day is Sunday when there is a constant stream of departing aircraft from virtually first light.

I imagine most will be returning next year and if you are interested you will be able to follow the build up at www.tannkosh.com. Or if you just want to go flying in a beautiful area with very hospitable hosts, check out http://www.edmt.de.

As they say at Tannheim, here’s to ‘blue skies and tailwinds’.

Kapfenberg Airshow

Kapfenberg Airstrip
Steiermark
Austria
July 7 -9, 2006

Combine Aircraft with Gliders and Model Aircraft, Beer Tents with a travelling Amusement Park, add a picturesque grass airstrip tucked away in the Austrian Alps and you will begin to get some idea of this Airshow.

Although the atmosphere was more village fair than serious Airshow, it was impossible not to get caught up in the fun of it all.

This was the 8th Airshow organised by the enthusiastic and energetic pairing of Herr Johann Siber and Karl Gosch. (Who I gather started this whole venture because it seemed a good idea at the time.) Entry is free; the crew are all volunteers as I think are the performers. The Red Bull Team with their Corsair, Edge and Apache added a professional touch, as did the Austrian Airforce with a fire fighting helicopter display.

The model aircraft contingent provided some eye-catching sequences with some Very Large Models, a Glider and Tug combination and several aerobatic displays – one of witch was done by a jet model and was particularly smooth. With the larger models it was difficult to tell you were actually looking at model and not the real thing.

But of all the performances, the one I really thought outstanding was a formation aerobatic display by a pair of Blanik gliders. It was very graceful and somehow seemed to capture the essence of flight. Hats off to the pilots.

Of course just being in Austria added a distinctive flavour – we ate quite a few schnitzels – and I don’t think I’ve ever seen as many ski fields!

I don’t think this Airshow will be on the circuit next year – I understand a much bigger affair is planned just up the valley. It will be worth looking out for if you are planning on being in that part of the world.

The Shuttleworth Collection

Old Warden Aerodrome
Biggleswade
Bedfordshire
England
May 20, 2006


This ‘Museum’ is everything an aircraft collection ought to be:

• Three of the oldest flying aero planes in the world including the worlds oldest airworthy aero plane – a 1909 Bleriot Type XI

• Most of the about 40 aero planes maintained in flying or at least taxiable condition

• A perfect country aerodrome setting complete with grass strip

• Frequent flying displays including evening performances – take a picnic – cucumber sandwiches, strawberries and champagne are ideal accompaniments

The weather was not the best at the time of my visit but they managed to get most of the 22 participating aircraft in the air.
It was great to see a Gloster Gladiator even though it was grounded with an engine problem.

A low level barnstorming performance by a couple of Miles Magisters and a Chipmunk was a first for me. The limbo act was a particularly amazing display of flying skills!

All up this place has to be near the top of Must See aero sites.

Duxford AirSpace Airshow

Imperial War Museum - Duxford
Cambridge
England
May 21, 2006


Duxford – one of the RAF’s oldest fighter bases, home to the USAF’s 8th Air Force during WWII and now the American Air Museum, home also too The Old Flying Machine Company and The Fighter Collection – a true Mecca for all air enthusiasts.

The weather on Air Show day was about as bad as it can get and still put aircraft in the air. Eventually though, the weather won and the show was significantly curtailed.

But it didn’t really matter as the Museum is huge – far more there then can be taken in one day.

On the flying side they did manage to get the Sally B – a USAF B-17 Flying Fortress - airborne. A first for me and it made quite an impression. More so than I would have expected – probably because it was a first.

Bigwing

Bigwing
Dabble Duck Estate
Shildon
County Durham
May 23, 2006


George Conway is the originator of the Brass Spitfire kitset. George is an engineer and his father is a watchmaker which goes part way to explaining how the whole idea of brass aircraft came about!

George’s wife, Pauline, helps out not only with moral support but also as the lead sales person at the various shows they attend around the UK. George and Pauline are Bigwing.

I bought one of George’s early kit-sets and was so impressed with it’s uniqueness and stunning good looks that I determined then and there that I would contact George and see if he was interested in having me help market the product in New Zealand and Europe. The rest is history as they say and we’ve made several enjoyable visits to work out a marketing strategy for these markets.

My first experience selling the Spitfire was at the Warbirds Over Wanaka Air show where the finished model generated considerable interest. At this show one of the most frequently asked questions was ‘What and when will be the next kitset in the series?’

The main reason for our latest visit to George was to answer this question.

As you can probably imagine putting one of these kit-sets together is quite a task. And as most of the metal work has been outsourced it’s been a very time consuming process moving from a cardboard cut-out to precision cut brass parts. As a consequence George has had to defer the next aircraft – a Hawker Hurricane – several times. As a further consequence he has decided to invest in a milling machine and lathe, which will help to speed up the development work.

So the answer to the question is:

Model Target Release Date

Hurricane August 2006

Mustang January 2007

Bf 109 June 2007

Beyond then several options are under consideration for a decision towards the end of this year.

Finally, George takes a very close and personal interest in all of his Customers who are encouraged to contact him with comments, suggestions or just to talk about building brass Spitfires.

So please visit his website at http://www.bigwing.biz and if you happen to visit any shows he is attending make a point of saying hello.

Hellfire Corner

County of Kent
England
May 19, 2006


Having a couple of spare days whilst en-route to our supplier of Brass Spitfires, I had determined to visit Kent where there is a Battle of Britain Museum at Hawkinge.

Hawkinge, very near Dover and Folkestone, was the home of a forward RAF Fighter Command airfield and was in the thick of the Battle of Britain – so much so that the area came to be known as Hellfire Corner. Learning this, our trip to the museum turned into a sort of Battle of Britain pilgrimage with stops at the White Cliffs of Dover, the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel le Ferne, the Cat and Custard Pot Pub at Paddlesworth and the White Hart Inn at Brasted.

From much earlier days I was surprised to find a Bleriot memorial, which has been created at the point near Dover castle where Bleriot completed the worlds first international flight!

It was a memorable day.

I won’t forget the radar towers at Dover, the Memorial Wall at Capel le Ferne, or the broken Merlin and Daimler Benz engines at the Museum. The engines came from aircraft wrecks, which have been recovered over the years, and each has been researched and presented according to its individual history. For some reason, those engines and their stories were the most poignant of memorials of all.

Footnote:

We stayed in a night Folkestone.
Interestingly, our hotel had the following sign in the room

IN THE INTERESTS
OF SAFTEY
HOTEL GUESTS ARE
REQUESTED TO
REFRAIN
FROM CLIMBING OUT
OF THE WINDOWS

Which probably says something about the town!

If you plan a similar journey, we’d suggest Deal, Canterbury or maybe Sandwich as preferable overnight options.

The Merchant At Warbirds

This was The Merchants first outing. It was a test run, really, to see if other people shared my interest in the products to the point of parting with $$ for them and to see if I could face the public for three days and end up still smiling!

Happily, the answer was yes on both counts. In fact I enjoyed myself so much I was very near the first in the queue to get my booking in for the next show!

I had left all the arrangements to the last minute so I was very light on promotional material and the only accommodation I could arrange was in Cromwell about a 40 min drive from the field.

But meeting so many great people both in the spectator crowds and amongst my fellow exhibitors more than compensated for the shortfalls.

To avoid the traffic I was near the gates at the 6:30 am opening each day and a lasting memory will be sitting out at the runway near sunrise, replete with freshly brewed coffee and bacon sandwich hot off the BBQ, watching the early aircraft movements and anticipating the events of the day.

Fortunately for me, my daughter was able to join me for the last day and a half, which gave a welcome break and a chance to see some of the action on the field. She was also good company at the social events and we departed Wanaka tired but happy campers.

As a result of the Wanaka show I determined to make a far greater commitment to the Merchant concept, which has lead to what you see before you now. The idea now is to visit European Air Shows during the Northern Hemisphere summer and pick up the NZ shows in the Southern Hemisphere summer.

This site has a schedule of forthcoming appearances so if you happen to be at any of these shows please do drop by and say hello – I’ll be very happy to see you.

Warbirds Over Wanaka 2006

This is reputedly the Southern Hemisphere’s largest Warbirds Air show. It’s a 3-Day event with Friday being an official ‘practice’ day (but open to the public nonetheless).

Friday has always been my favourite day – there are fewer people and the pilots seem to put on a more relaxed display. But then I usually go to all 3 Days so I don’t miss anything anyway!

The backdrop of mountains, lake and the semi desert of Central Otago must make this one of the more spectacular air shows with many unforgettable sights.

This year my list of ‘unforgettables’ would include:

• The Fokker Triplane and the Sopwith Camel dogfighting over the airfield

• The aerobatics of Svetlana Kapanina and Jurgis Kairys in their Sukhois

• The Hawker Hunter making a low level approach over the plains to the east

• The RAAF F111 making a great deal of noise whilst doing a spectacular ‘dump and burn’ display.

• Sir Tim Wallis’s Spitfire bidding its farewell to its home of the past few years

Of course the performances of Wanaka’s own Andrew Sisters did much to add to the overall ambience of a great weekend!

Looking ahead, those in the know, will know that after every show there are many rumours claiming the show just past may be the last.

This year was no exception, the rumours being fueled by the knowledge that Sir Tim Wallis’s Alpine Deer Group Team are handing future shows over to a Community Trust.

But I’m sure that Trust will be well aware of the huge legacy they have been handed – and I, for one, have made by bookings for 2008.

Tigermoth Flight

Croydon Aircraft Company Ltd
Old Mandeville Airfield Jan 11 2006
Gore, Southland, New Zealand

First flight in a Tiger Moth !
Why have I not ‘discovered’ these before ?

Ryan was my pilot and he allowed me some satisfying P2 time before launching the Tiger into a full sequence of aerobatics. But these were like nothing I’ve experienced before – its sort of what I imagine an aerial ballet might be like – you can feel the shape and timing of each manoeuvre.

You can try a Pitts Special if you want to be flung about the sky but this was a true joy.

And at the end of the flight, with wind in the wires we hushed down the glide slope to a perfect landing on Old Mandeville’s grass runway. Flying doesn’t get much better than this.

You can find out more about the Croydon Aircraft Company at:
http://www.croydonaircraft.com .

These folk have a DH88 Comet racer nearing completion in their workshops.

And if you have your mind set on learning to fly they’ll teach you in a Tiger Moth – imagine that !

James Grimstead Photographer

A big thanks goes out to James Grimstead, for the use of his photo for the basis of our Open Cockpit Scarf poster. His site is well worth the look: www.jrgimages.co.uk

Cheers James!

New Zealand Gliding Grand Prix

New Zealand Gliding Grand Prix Jan 27 -29
Omarama
McKenzie Country
South Island

This was a first for NZ and a World first in using state of the art technology in an endeavour to bring the excitement of competitive gliding not only to on site spectators, but into the living rooms of the population at large. See: http://www.gp06.com/

Was it successful?

Well, I’m an ex glider pilot so maybe I’m biased but this was the most spellbinding and exciting event I’ve been to for a very long time. The format really does convey what competitive soaring is all about and for anyone who hasn’t had the experience first hand, I think you will be very surprised at the level of drama and the spectacular photography when you first see it.

Omarama is a long way from anywhere in NZ and NZ is where the big aircraft go to turn around so it perhaps wasn’t surprising that spectator attendance didn’t really meet expectations. But based on the folk I talked to on the field (including many elderly couples (about our age!) who have an aircraft in the family for their farming activities!) the next time will be very different.

And there will be a next time because the success of the event in Gliding circles has lead to New Zealand being awarded the first World Grand Prix which will be held in NZ's South Island in Dec 2007 See: http://www.fai.org/gliding/node/278

I rate this a ‘must see’ if you are able to make the journey.

And if you’re a Gliding enthusiast don’t miss:
http://www.gliding.co.nz