Aviation News - Global Aviation Resource - The Online Aviation Magazine

FEB012012

GAM Previews: 25 Years of the Airbus A320 It is now 25 years since the Airbus A320 made its maiden flight. Since then, the aircraft has proved a remarkable success for Airbus and continues to sell in large numbers. Paul Dunn takes a look at the history of this revolutionary airliner.

JAN302012

Aviation News >> Boeing's 787 Dreamliner World Tour Boeing has been taking one of its 787 development aircraft on a tour of locations relevant to the program. Rob Edgcumbe caught up with the tour in Rockford, Illinois, USA and reports for GAR.

JAN282012

Airshows >> UK: Jubilee Schemed Tucano Breaks Cover As images of a Jubilee schemed Tucano from RAF Linton-on-Ouse emerged yesterday, GAR contacted the 2012 Tucano Display Team for an update on this year's plans for its own specially painted aircraft - Gareth Stringer reports.

JAN232012

Aviation News >> Connie Comes Home - N548GF / 53-548 EC-121T Warning Star Arrives at New Yanks Air Museum Home Saturday 14 January 2012 saw the long-awaited arrival of the Yanks Air Museum's Lockheed EC-121T Warning Star 53-548/N548GF at Chino. Mike Shreeve was there and reports for GAR.

JAN132012

Aviation News >> Air Spray L-188 Electra from Honduras Air Force It's always nice to see an aircraft that everyone assumes will never fly again get a new lease of life against all the odds. This is exactly what has happened to an L-188 Electra that has been rescued from Honduras by Air Spray of Canada. Paul Filmer reports from Casper, Wyoming where maintenance issues forced an extended stay.

JAN122012

Airshows >> UK:Team Viper - Thank you and Farewell Last night's breaking news that Team Viper and its Hawker Hunters will no longer be operating on the display circuit dismayed airshow goers, many of whom expressed their disappointment but also thanked the Team for what it had done over the past three years. This morning, Gareth Stringer caught up with Viper's Gerald Williams for an exclusive chat.

DEC092011

Aviation News: 29(R) Squadron Unveils English Electric Lighting Gate Guard 'XP765' 29 (Reserve) Squadron today rolled out English Electric Lightning F.6 XS897 in full 29 Squadron markings during a private ceremony at the Squadron's RAF Coningsby home station. The aircraft has been modified and painted to represent Lightning F.3 XP765 that served with 29 during the 1960s and '70s.

NOV252011

Military Aviation: IV Squadron Reborn at RAF Valley Yesterday RAF Valley was the stage for an important moment in RAF history. 19(Reserve) Squadron, the unit formerly responsible for fast jet tactical weapons training, was disbanded and, in its place, IV(Reserve) Squadron reformed to become the Hawk T2 unit and take the UK’s fast jet training forward into the future. To add to this occasion, 208(Reserve) Squadron, the unit responsible for Hawk T1 fast jet flying training, received a new Royal Standard. All images - Corporal Mark Dixon - Royal Air Force.

NOV042011

Aviation News: Deputy Prime Minister Visits RAF Waddington to Pay Tribute to UK Armed Forces’ Role in NATO’s Campaign Over Libya With NATO declaring the end of sanctioned military operations over Libya, the Royal Air Force, Army Air Corps and Royal Navy air assets are now home from what the UK titled Operation ELLAMY. Gareth Stringer was at RAF Waddington as Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg dropped by to welcome some of them home. Images – Karl Drage.

OCT052011

Aviation News: Global Aviation Resource launches Global Aviation Magazine Global Aviation Resource has today launched a brand new product to the world of aviation publishing – Global Aviation Magazine.

AUG212011

Airshows >> UK: Flt Lt Jon Egging – Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team Global Aviation Resource offers a few words following the tragic death of the Red Arrows' Flt Lt Jon Egging.

JUL112011

Military Aviation >> Royal Air Force: Hawk T.2 Gathers Pace at RAF Valley After more than three decades as the RAF's sole advanced jet trainer, the Hawk T.1 has now been joined on the flightline at RAF Valley by its younger and much more modern incarnation, the Hawk T.2. Gareth Stringer reports with images as credited.

JUN212011

Airshows >> UK: Statement from Jonathon Whaley - Fuel Venting From Miss Demeanour Jonathon Whaley has asked us to issue the following statement regarding Miss Demeanour's fuel venting at last weekend's Cotswold Airshow.

JUN202011

Emergency Services >> Aerial Firefighting: Wallow Fire, Arizona The arrival of summer in Arizona has brought some very serious wildfires to the state. Paul Dunn reports on the aerial firefighting efforts to contain the Wallow Fire.

JUN032011

Military Aviation >> US Navy: CVN-77 USS George H. W. Bush The entry into UK waters of a United States Navy (USN) aircraft carrier always causes something of a stir and the first visit of CVN-77, the USS George H.W. Bush, was no exception as it rested in Stokes Bay, Portsmouth between May 27th and May 31st after its participation in Exercise Saxon Warrior 2011. Glenn Beasley went aboard to find out more.

MAY232011

Warbirds >> P-51D Mustang 'Big Beautiful Doll' Leaves the UK On Saturday 9 April 2011, P-51D Mustang 'Big Beautiful Doll' left the United Kingdom for Bremgarten, Germany, where it joins the expanding collection of vintage warbirds at the Air Fighter Academy. Elliott Marsh visited former owner Rob Davies' private airfield at Woodchurch to witness the departure of this British airshow legend.

MAY102011

Military Aviation >> Royal Air Force > XIII Squadron Ceases Flying Friday, May 6th 2011, saw XIII Squadron fly the Tornado GR.4 for the last time. While tinged with sadness, the overall tone of the message coming out of RAF Marham was that this was more of a restructuring process than an out and out cut. Karl Drage was there to report for GAR.

MAY032011

Airshows >> UK: Vulcan XH558's First Training Flight From New Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport Home On the 26th April XH558, the Vulcan bomber, took to the skies for the first time from her new home of Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport ahead of what is hoped to be a full season of appearances at airshows up and down the UK. Glenn Beasley was there for GAR to find out how the Delta Lady has settled into her new home and what the purpose of the flight was.

APR282011

Airshows >> UK: Royal Air Force's 22 Gp Pilots Get the Green Light to Display Yesterday was a successful one all round for the Royal Air Force's 22 Gp airshow pilots as the Tutor, Hawk and Tucano display pilots received their clearance to display in public. Joining them was the King Air solo display which returns for a fourth year on the circuit as Gareth Stringer reports. Images as credited.

APR262011

Military Aviation >> USA > Exercises: National Disaster Medical System Exercise The National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) is a federally coordinated system which establishes a single integrated medial response capability for assisting local and state authorities in dealing with major peacetime disasters. Paul Filmer reports from Colorado on the latest NDMS Exercise.

APR262011

Balloons & Blimps: A Goodyear for Road Safety The iconic Goodyear blimp recently returned to the United Kingdom to commence the 2011 Goodyear Safety Tour, promoting the company's road safety initiatives across 20 European countries. Elliott Marsh goes blimp hunting for GAR.

APR192011

Airshows >> UK: Abingdon Air and Country Show 2011 - Preview The Abingdon Air and Country Show is for many of the UK's airshow fans a traditional season curtain raiser. This year's event takes place on Sunday 8th May, despite the difficulties it faced last year, and looks set to provide a solid flying display with much to see on the ground. Organiser Neil Porter helps Gareth Stringer assess last year's issues and explains why the show must go on. Images as credited.

APR152011

Airshows >> UK: 2011 Royal Air Force Tucano Display Pilot - Flt Lt Dan Hayes Following on from our reveal of the 2011 Tucano Display Scheme, it's high time that we introduced the man charged with displaying to the public in the forthcoming airshow season, Flt Lt Dan Hayes, and his Display Manager, Flt Lt Nathan Dales. Karl Drage reports from RAF Linton-on-Ouse, with exclusive PlanesTV video content and a glimpse of the actual display scheme on the aircraft in question.

APR122011

Airshows >> UK: Vulcan training day at Wellesbourne - XM655 Helps XH558 With the airshow season rapidly approaching, the aircrew who will display the world’s only flying example of the Vulcan recently completed a vital day of training using another airframe for the job. Gareth Stringer was there for GAR.

APR082011

Airshows >> UK: 2011 Royal Air Force Hawk Display Scheme Revealed Continuing our series of Royal Air Force airshow exclusives, Global Aviation Resource reveals the scheme to be worn by display pilot Flt Lt Jules Fleming’s Hawk T.1 aircraft. Gareth Stringer reports.

APR052011

Aviation News: Welcome Home - Vulcan XH558 returns to Doncaster On the 29th March 2011, Vulcan XH558 moved to her new home, Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport, formerly RAF Finningley where she served with the RAF during the Cold War. Glenn Beasley was there for GAR to witness her arrival.

APR012011

Airshows >> UK: 2011 Royal Air Force Tucano Display Scheme Revealed Global Aviation Resource is delighted to exclusively reveal the scheme that this year’s Royal Air Force Tucano Display aircraft will be wearing at airshows across the UK and beyond. Gareth Stringer reports with images as credited.

MAR292011

Military Aviation >> Royal Air Force > Tornado F.3: Tremblers' Farewell - the end of the Tornado F.3 The Tornado F.3 defended the skies of the UK for some 25 years. 111(F) Squadron, the last remaining operator of the type, disbanded on the 22nd March, signalling the end of the Tornado F.3's service with the Royal Air Force. Gareth Stringer looks back at the history while Glenn Beasley reports from RAF Leuchars on the end of an era.

MAR292011

Emergency Services >> Aerial Firefighting: Burning Tree Wildfire, CO, USA The battle against the Indian Gulch Fire continued since last week's update. The affected area has grown to 1502 acres but firefighters have begun to contain the blaze. Paul Filmer reports on the latest wildfire situation in Colorado.

MAR252011

Airshows >> UK: Flt Lt Shaun Kimberley - 2011 Royal Air Force Tutor Display Pilot Despite recent cuts to the Royal Air Force training pipeline, public displays by 22 Group aircraft remain a crucial element of the engagement strategy. Gareth Stringer travelled to RAF Cranwell to meet the man taking over Tutor display duties for 2011.

MAR222011

Emergency Services >> Aerial Firefighting: Indian Gulch Wildfire, CO, USA It's not even the end of March and Colorado has already seen two wildfires that required aviation firefighting assets. Meanwhile the experts are suggesting that this season has all the ingredients of a busy one. Paul Filmer reports on recent events.

MAR222011

Military Aviation >> Royal Navy > Jetstream: End of the line for Royal Navy's 'Flying Classroom' After almost 38 years the venerable Jetstream has finally left UK military service. Operated by both the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy, it was 750 NAS which was the final user of the type and, on March 14th, the Squadron flew its last sortie as a Jetstream operator. Karl Drage looks back at the aircraft's history, with imagery as credited.

MAR222011

Military Aviation >> US Air Force > T-38 Talon: Northrop's White Rocket - Fifty Years of Training Excellence On the 17th March 1961, the USAF accepted the first examples of a new advanced jet trainer into service. Fifty years on, the type is still giving sterling service with little sign of a replacement on the horizon. Paul Dunn pays tribute to the Northrop T-38 Talon.

MAR152011

Airshows >> UK: RNAS Yeovilton Air Day 2011 Press Launch & Preview Paul Fiddian reports from RNAS Yeovilton which held a Press Launch to preview Air Day 2011 on 11 March. The weather was dreary but the flying was top notch and, on the evidence presented, this year's event's shaping up very well...

MAR012011

Aviation News >> USAF > Boeing wins USAF KC-X tanker contract - again On February 24th 2011 the United States Department of Defence (DoD) announced that Boeing had won the advanced aerial refuelling tanker contest, KC-X, for 179 tanker aircraft. Paul Dopson reports on the embattled long running saga to replace the ageing KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.

FEB262011

Aviation News >> Military > First Production Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II Flies The first production Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II made its first flight yesterday, providing some welcome good news for a troubled project. Paul Dunn was there for GAR.

FEB152011

Aviation News >> Civil > Boeing Reveals 747-8 Intercontinental The aviation industry gathered at Boeing's Everett factory near Seattle on Sunday February 13th 2011 for the ceremony to reveal the 747-8 Intercontinental. The 747-8I is the largest commercial Boeing to be built and Boeing claims it is significantly more fuel efficient, quieter and greener than its 747-400 predecessor. Paul Dopson reports.

FEB152011

Air Museums >> UK: Dominie Delivered to RAF Museum Cosford Following hot on the heels of GAR’s coverage of the Dominie’s retirement from service, last Friday an example of the aircraft was delivered to the RAF Museum at Cosford. Gareth Stringer was there to see it. Images as credited.

FEB012011

Royal Air Force Presentation Team The Royal Air Force Presentation Team travels the length and breadth of the UK giving people from all walks of life an insight in to the RAF’s capabilities, responsibilities and operations. Gareth Stringer joined them at an event to find out more. Images as credited.

FEB012011

The British Airways-Iberia Merger Last week British Airways and Iberia merged, creating a new force in the European airline industry. Mark Broadbent looks at the reasons for the merger and the issues ahead. Images as credited.

JAN252011

Dominie departs after 45 years service While last October's Strategic Defence and Security Review announcement was quite clear about the future for certain types and fleets, a number of other knock on effects have, unsurprisingly, cascaded down the supply chain. One of those is the earlier than planned retirement of the Dominie T.1. Karl Drage was present at RAF Cranwell on January 20th to see them off and took the opportunity to speak to Dominie people, past and present. Images as credited.

JAN252011

Neo kid on the block - the Airbus A320neo Airbus has announced a major upgrade for its A320 family of airliners. Mark Broadbent takes a look at the new aircraft and the future prospects for the short-medium haul jet airliner market. All images copyright Airbus S.A.S.

JAN132011

Competition winners drawn at the Cotswold Airport. Yesterday GAR was at the Cotswold Airport for a meeting with Operations Manager and airshow organiser Glen Moreman. As well as drawing out our ten competition winners Glen provided a brief update on this year’s airshow as Gareth Stringer reports.

JAN112011

Legendary Lancaster Celebrates 70th The 9th January 1941 saw the Avro Lancaster take to the air for the first time and, to mark this significant 70th anniversary, Gareth Stringer takes a look at the history of the aircraft and speaks to someone who has flown it. Images as credited.

DEC212010

The Harrier: The Final Weeks Of An Icon With Joint Force Harrier It's over - the Harrier has been retired from RAF / RN service. After a hectic, emotional and rumour strewn drawdown, Gareth Stringer talks us through Joint Force Harrier's final weeks from GAR's perspective and both inside and out. Images as credited.

DEC172010

The Harrier: Joint Force Harrier's Final Chapter Wednesday 15th December 2010 saw the legendary Harrier complete its final flights as part of the UK's armed forces. GAR was there to report on a sad and emotional day at RAF Cottesmore. Words - Gareth Stringer. Images - Karl Drage unless otherwise stated.

DEC142010

Warbirds >> Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer N2871G Flies Again The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer served with the US Navy between 1944 and the early 1960s and was used mostly in the maritime patrol mission. Paul Filmer travels to Wyoming to document the final test flights of the only airworthy PB4Y-2 after a long period of being firmly on the ground.

DEC072010

Mississippi Thunder: Lightning T.5 XS422 With Thunder City in South Africa now closed for business after recent tragic events, one might think that the chances of seeing an English Electric Lighting in the air are again a thing of the past. There is a loyal band of volunteers who fly to Mississippi periodically whose goal is to prove this wrong. Paul Filmer visits the Anglo American Lightning Organisation (AALO) to catch-up on the progress made to date.

DEC072010

Exercise Vega 2010 Eagles with strange nobbly bits, majestic looking brown, green and sand camouflaged F-16s and the most interesting looking Gulfstream you ever did see; Chris Wood guest reports from the Italian island of Sardinia as the Israeli Defence Forces take up residence for Exercise Vega 2010.

DEC072010

The F-111's Nellis Swansong - Red Flag 09-3 Last weekend marked the sad retirement of the World's last remaining F-111s. Last year the Australian Air Force F-111C Aardvarks made the long trek to deploy to Red Flag for the last time and Paul Filmer travelled to the edge of the vast Nellis ranges to try and catch up with the oldest swingers in town...

NOV302010

Flying the 'Fish - LS326 The full return of a Fairey Swordfish to the UK airshow scene has been long-awaited and, now – after a successful series of test flights last month – it will happen in 2011. Paul Fiddian visited the RNHF to find out just what the Swordfish is like to fly, and discuss the type’s arrival back onto the display circuit. While he looks forward, many of the images that feature here journey back in time, to revisit some of the highlights of the aircraft’s airshow past.

NOV162010

Vulcan XH558 - An Interview with Dr Robert Pleming The plight of Avro Vulcan XH558 has remained at the forefront of many minds since the aircraft's incredible return to flight in 2007. With yet another last minute funding drive recently completed, GAR approached THE VULCAN TO THE SKY TRUST (VTTST) to talk through the project's past, present and future. Gareth Stringer sat down with Chief Executive Dr Robert Pleming. Images as credited.

NOV092010

The Harrier: 41(R) Squadron’s Harrier Flight Disbands With the early disbandment of Joint Force Harrier announced in October’s Strategic Defence and Security Review it became only a matter of time before GAR started covering the sad demise of this legendary aircraft’s career in the British armed forces. 41(R) Squadron was the first to give up its jets and Gareth Stringer reports on a sad day for this proud unit. Images as credited.

NOV092010

Paying Homage to the Hurricane on its 75th Birthday While 2010 has seen the Battle of Britain's 70th marked in style, last weekend saw a further significant anniversary - 75 years since the first flight of the legendary Hawker Hurricane. Huw Hopkins takes a look at this iconic British aircraft with contributions from Hurricane owner and display pilot Peter Teichman and renowned historian Dilip Sarkar MBE. Images as credited.

NOV022010

British Airways' 757s Bow Out Saturday October 30th, 2010, saw British Airways operate its last ever revenue earning flight with the Boeing 757, bringing to an end more than 27 and a half years of operations of the type. Karl Drage looks back at the British Airways association with the venerable 757.

OCT262010

Bringing Back the Beast - Fairey Gannet XL500's Return to Flight While best known for its restoration and ongoing support of the majority of the UK’s Hawker Hunter operations, Exeter-based Hunter Flying Ltd is also nurturing something rather special back to life, as new recruit Paul Fiddian reports in his debut piece for GAR.

OCT192010

Strategic Defence and Security Review Today finally saw the Prime Minister David Cameron announce the result of the government’s Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR). Gareth Stringer reports for GAR with independent analysis from Dr Peter Gray, Senior Research Fellow in Air Power Studies at the University of Birmingham.

OCT052010

Wildfires In Colorado This year the wildfire season in Colorado has been a relatively quiet one but in the week beginning 6th September it changed in an instant with a pair of back-to-back fires needing aerial support. Paul Filmer reports from his home state on the people and machines that are used to fight the fires.

SEP282010

The 54th Coupe Aéronautique Gordon Bennett Gas Balloon Race The 54th Coupe Aéronautique Gordon Bennett gas balloon race took to the skies from a launch site near Bristol in the early hours of Sunday morning. Paul Dopson was there for GAR.

SEP212010

Final Colombian Air Force T-37 Deliveries The final four T-37Bs pulled out of AMARC for the Colombian Air Force (FAC) left Marana Regional Airport on 11th August to join the 11 that have already been delivered. Paul Filmer reports from Arizona where he was invited to shoot the final delivery.

SEP212010

The Maiden Flight of the Cameron GB-1000 With under a week to go before the start of the 54th Coupe Aeronautique Gordon Bennett International Gas Balloon Race 2010, GAR was invited to attend the recent first flight of a new Cameron gas balloon that David Hempleman-Adams will fly as GB1 in the race. Paul Dopson was there to witness this historic event.

AUG172010

The Last Time - DC-3 Meet, Whiteside Airport, Il As yet another milestone slides by involving the Douglas DC-3 and while many still ply their trade, a gathering just before a mass fly-in at Air Adventure at Oshkosh was a very ambitious and fitting plan. Paul Filmer reports from Whiteside Airport in Illinois where The Last Time event took place.

AUG102010

Preparing for the worst - Colorado National Guard Exercise From 5th to the 7th August the Colorado National Guard, along with the West Metro Fire District and Colorado Task Force-One (CO-TF1), conducted a large scale emergency response exercise in Lakewood which is a South Western Denver suburb. Paul Filmer reports from a field on one of the last elements of the exercise.

AUG102010

The 2010 ASTRA Bristol International Balloon Fiesta - media launch This weekend, August 12th-15th, sees the United Kingdom based balloonists keeping their fingers crossed for good weather for the 2010 ASTRA Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Paul Dopson attended the Media Launch for GAR.

AUG032010

Dawlish Air Show 2010 - The Funding Drive Continues Back in March when GAR joined forces with the organisers of Dawlish Air Show to deliver a brand new website, it was far from certain that there would even be a 2010 event. Some five months later this year's show is secured, despite the lack of headline sponsorship - something which Kevin Wills explains would make all the difference to the line-up he and his team would be able to boast. Karl Drage catches up with him for a chat.

JUL062010

Neptune Accident at Rocky Mountain Metro Along with two P-3s from Aero Union a pair of P2V Neptunes from Neptune Aviation Services in Missoula, Montana have been fighting two large fires; the Cow Creek Fire in the Rocky Mountain National Park and the Round Mountain Fire west of Loveland in Colorado the last couple of days. Paul Filmer reports on the aftermath of an accident.

JUN152010

The 54th Coupe Aéronautique Gordon Bennett International Gas Balloon Race Media Launch Gas Balloons? Gordon Bennett, it's GB2010! Thursday 10th June saw the Media Launch for the prestigious Gordon Bennett Balloon Race at Bristol Council House. GAR's in-house balloonist Paul Dopson reports.

JUN092010

Sqn Ldr Ken "Jacko" Jackson - a tribute. Global Aviation Resource has been asked to publish a few words from one of its supporters paying tribute to Sqn Ldr Ken Jackson MBE AFC RAF (Ret'd) who sadly passed away last month.

MAR232010

The Sri Lanka Air Force is coming - RIAT 2010 preview With the Royal International Air Tattoo just a few short months away, Gareth Stringer dropped in to RIAT HQ at RAF Fairford for a preview courtesy of Rob Windsor, Deputy Director Aircraft Operations. Images as credited.

MAR122010

EXCLUSIVE - 2010 RAF Tucano Display Scheme and Interview Global Aviation Resource is delighted to exclusively reveal the two very special schemes that will adorn the 2010 Tucano display aircraft and, following a recent visit to RAF Linton on Ouse, present pilot Flt Lt Tom Bould's first interview ahead of the forthcoming display season.

MAR092010

Dawlish Carnival Air Show - new website but uncertain future Global Aviation Resource and the Dawlish Carnival Air Show are today delighted to announce the launch of an all new website in support of the event. But, despite the air show’s huge popularity and near cult-status, the future looks uncertain. Gareth Stringer spoke to organiser Kevin Wills. Images as credited.

FEB232010

Mriya, you've gotta see her! - The An-225 visits Robin Hood With a 3000 metre runway, Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport is capable of handling the biggest of aircraft. This was put to the test when the biggest of them all paid a welcome visit on 16th February for a much needed cargo operation. Glenn Beasley was there for GAR.

FEB162010

Waddington Airshow 2010 - Exclusive Last year's Waddington International Airshow was one of the best attended events of its kind in the UK. Two days of solid flying and sunshine tempted 170,000 people through the gates of the RAF station, despite the huge disappointment that saw Vulcan XH558 remain firmly grounded for the entire weekend. Gareth Stringer travelled to Waddington to find out how things are progressing ahead of the 2010 event. Images as credited.

FEB092010

Classic Flight at Coventry Airport Air Atlantique's Classic Flight owns one of the most impressive collections of airworthy and potentially airworthy aircraft in the UK and, for many years, has dedicated itself to displaying these aircraft at airshows and giving people the opportunity to fly in them. Global Aviation Resource travelled to Coventry Airport to learn more. Words - Gareth Stringer. Images - as credited.

JAN292010

2010 RAF Hawk Display Scheme Revealed Global Aviation Resource is delighted to exclusively reveal the chosen colour scheme for the 2010 RAF Hawk display aircraft.

JAN262010

Queen of the Skies at 40 Boeing’s Queen of the Skies recently notched up an incredible 40 years of airline service. GAR’s Paul Dunn is a huge fan of the 747. But then, he is unashamedly rather biased! Images as credited.

JAN192010

Chinook Mk.3 Unveiled at RAF Odiham Global Aviation Resource travelled to RAF Odiham, home of the Chinook Force, to attend a press event for the long awaited entry in to service of the eight ‘new’ Mk.3 airframes. It was a day that allowed GAR to learn about more than just these new additions to the RAF fleet. Words - Gareth Stringer, Images – Karl Drage.

DEC082009

One of a Kind - Golden Apple's F-86A Sabre The UK airshow scene is blessed with many jet warbirds which entertain thousands of paying spectators each year, but it has been uniquely fortunate to have enjoyed the company of the only 'A' model North American F-86 Sabre flying in the world today since 1992. Glenn Beasley speaks to Willie Felger, Golden Apple's Director of Operations, about their resident classic.

NOV252009

Introducing The Breitling Wingwalkers AeroSuperBatics Ltd, operators of the world’s only formation wingwalking team, is delighted to announce an exciting two year sponsorship deal with prestigious watch manufacturer Breitling.

NOV242009

The 2010 Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team - The Red Arrows The 2010 Red Arrows have commenced their work-up for next year’s public display season. With a new team leader and new pilots, media interest in the 2010 team is high, and GAR’s Glenn Beasley attended the unveiling of the new line-up at RAF Scampton.

NOV242009

Launch of a New Generation - ATR 72-600 Franco-Italian aircraft manufacturer ATR has unveiled its latest machine, Tony Osborne takes a closer look at the new ATR 72-600 for GAR.

NOV172009

RAF Museum Hosts MH-53 Ceremony with Chief of the Air Staff Global Aviation Resource travelled to Cosford to attend a ceremony marking the dedication of the RAF Museum’s newest exhibit and took the opportunity to talk the Chief of the Air Staff, Sir Stephen Dalton. Words – Gareth Stringer / Pictures – Karl Drage

NOV102009

Merlin Force - Exercise Merlin Vortex Earlier in the year, GAR published two pieces focusing on the RAF Merlin Force as they began to prepare for their deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation HERRICK. As part of this process a detachment recently deployed to Southern California to take advantage of the superb training environment there. Paul Dunn visited NAF El Centro to catch up on how preparations are going, and offers an exclusive insight for GAR.

OCT182009

DHL's Latest Addition The launch of a new aircraft is always an exciting time for aviation enthusiasts. Being only ten miles along the motorway, Geoff Hibbert, on behalf of Global Aviation Resource, kindly accepted DHL's invitation to attend the press day to take a closer look at their all new Boeing 767 ERF.

OCT172009

1435 Flt Says Goodbye Tornado, Hello Typhoon With the Eurofighter Typhoon replacing the venerable Tornado F.3s of 1435 Flt to police the Falkland Islands, Gareth Stringer takes a closer look at the history of this long-standing RAF commitment.

OCT132009

Up and Running - Lt Ian Sloan and the RNHF Sea Hawk After a frustrating season, blighted by serviceability issues, the Sea Hawk made a late, but extremely welcome, return to the airshow circuit in this Fly Navy 100 commemorative year. Gareth Stringer sat down with the aircraft's new display pilot, Lt Ian Sloan.

OCT022009

"It's very sad, poignant, to see the Squadron close" - 23 Sqn Disbands The parade has marched off the square, the Standard has been handed over to the receiving party and has been taken from RAF Waddington to be laid up in the chapel at the RAF College, Cranwell. On October 2nd, 2009, 23 Sqn disbanded for the fourth time in its 93 year history. Graham Platt was there to cover the ceremony for GAR.

SEP292009

RAF Puma Upgrades Back in 2007, Eurocopter was awarded a UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) Assessment Phase (AP) contract for the Life Extension Programme for the RAF's fleet of Puma HC.1 helicopters. Now, some 27 months later, the MoD have announced that they've signed a deal worth £300m to carry out the required work to bring the aircraft up to HC.2 standard. Karl Drage reports.

SEP232009

Helitech 2009 With Helitech, the largest dedicated European-based helicopter exhibition once again making its biennial visit to Duxford, Karl Drage made the short journey to Cambridgeshire to see what was on display.

SEP212009

Southport Airshow 2009 Preview With the 2009 airshow season drawing to a close Gareth Stringer previews the North West's biggest event and the final seaside show of the year - The Southport Airshow.

SEP102009

Cotswold Airport Battle of Britain Weekend Preview The third of the three main airshows at the Cotswold Airport (Kemble), the Battle of Britain Weekend is sure to be a popular final event for this most atmospheric of venues. Gareth Stringer looks ahead.

SEP082009

Historical Flight Foundation DC-7B Corrosion Corner used to be the place at Miami International Airport (MIA) to see the old round engined aircraft still operating mostly to the Caribbean, until the city had a clear-out to develop the airport. Opa-locka Airport has taken over that mantle since and Paul Filmer paid a visit to Historical Flight Foundation's facilities there.

SEP072009

"Nomads" Say Goodbye to the Eagle One of the USAF’s best known fighter units is in the process of trading in its F-15 Eagles, in preparation for a new role as the training unit for the new Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, bringing to an end more than 30 years of Eagle operations. Paul Dunn reports for GAR.

AUG112009

Little Gransden Charity Air & Car Show Preview 2009 Equidistant between the A1 and M11 in rural Cambridgeshire lies the quaint grassed airfield of Little Gransden, where, each August, an Air & Vintage Vehicle Show is held to raise funds for the Children In Need Appeal as well as other local charities. Karl Drage offers an insight into what the 2009 event might bring.

AUG112009

AFSOC Skytrucks The USAF Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is poised to accept the first of ten Polish built PZL M-28 Skytrucks (licence built An-28) for the covert insertion of small teams of Special Forces. Paul Filmer reports.

AUG102009

Dawlish Carnival Airshow Preview 2009 With the 2008 event attracting more than 90,000 visitors and a venue offering one of the best locations for dynamic aviation photography anywhere, Karl Drage takes a look ahead to the 2009 Dawlish Carnival Airshow.

AUG062009

VMA-311 Tomcats win top USMC Accolade One of the most distinguished squadrons in the US Marine Corps recently added another award to its collection. Paul Dunn reports for GAR...

AUG052009

Merlin Force Exclusive - From TELIC to HERRICK Part 2 In this second feature on the Merlin Force at RAF Benson Gareth Stringer looks at the challenges of maintaining the Merlin with MFES SEngO (Merlin Force Engineering Squadron, Senior Engineering Officer) Squadron Leader Paul Rose and also hears from 28(AC) Squadron 2nd In-command, Squadron Leader Simon Reade.

AUG052009

Merlin Force Exclusive - From TELIC to HERRICK Part 1 They've been in the spotlight of late with their forthcoming deployment to Afghanistan hitting the headlines, as the UK's helicopter force comes under the media microscope. Gareth Stringer and Karl Drage travelled to RAF Benson for GAR to take a close look at the Merlin Force.

JUL312009

Goodbye Tweety Bird At the end of July 2009, the USAF quietly said goodbye to one of its longest serving types, the Cessna T-37 Tweet. Paul Dunn caught one of the final T-37 missions.

JUL042009

Flt Lt Michelle Goodman DFC - Food for Heroes Flt Lt Michelle Goodman DFC is in the midst of a busy Summer. No doubt her work as Merlin pilot at RAF Benson keeps her busy enough but Michelle has decided to hit the airshow circuit in order to sell copies of Food For Heroes - a stunning new cookery book which will raise thousands of pounds for Help For Heroes.

JUN232009

Saudi Typhoon Deliveries Commence After more than ten years in the offing, the Royal Saudi Air Force have received the first of their 72 Eurofighter Typhoons that are on order. John Higgins was at BAe Warton to report on the handover ceremony and delivery for GAR.

MAY262009

Au Revoir Alouette The Swiss Air Force is currently in the process of modernising its utility helicopter fleet, with the venerable Aerospatiale Alouette III being replaced by the highly capable Eurocopter EC635. Paul Dunn visits Alpnach Airbase, Switzerland to report on the final days of the Alouette III in Swiss service.

MAY222009

MH-53 Goes on Display The first Sikorsky MH-53 Pave Low helicopter to go on display in the UK has done so at the RAF Museum Cosford. Words by Karl Drage.

MAY072009

Celebrations to mark a century of Naval Aviation - FLY NAVY 100 At the launch of the site we brought you a look at London's Fly Navy 100 flypast from RAF Northolt and now, Kevin Wills and Darron Hall offer up a very different perspective of the day to the GAR readership - from the deck of HMS Illustrious.

APR162009

The Future of Fire Tankers? After a couple of fatal crashes in the last two years involving P-2 Neptunes the project that Minden Air Corp are working on could seem all the more relevent. Paul Filmer reports from Nevada.

AUG302008

Last Flight of the C-133 Cargomaster Saturday 30th August 2008 marked the final ever flight of a C-133 Cargomaster, with this particular example (N199AB ex 56-1999) rolling off the Douglas Aircraft production line on Dec. 26, 1957. Paul Filmer reports from California with additional photos from Alaska.