Vintage Aviation News

01/13/2026

Hawker Siddeley Ni**od XV232, affectionately known as “The Mighty Hunter,” will conduct its final engine run at Coventry Airport on January 17, marking the end of a long-running and popular fundraising tradition. With operations at the airfield set to cease in 2026, the Ni**od Preservation Group is now racing to secure a future for the historic aircraft, exploring relocation and ferry flight options as efforts continue to preserve one of the last surviving examples of the type. https://loom.ly/BZQZowM

Hawker Siddeley Ni**od XV232, affectionately known as “The Mighty Hunter,” will conduct its final engine run at Coventry Airport on January 17, marking the end of a long-running and popular fundraising tradition. With operations at the airfield set to cease in 2026, the Ni**od Preservation Group...

01/12/2026

The CAF Red Tail Squadron has unveiled its 2026 summer and fall schedule for the RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit and P-51C Mustang Tuskegee Airmen. The nationwide tour will bring the inspiring story of America’s first Black military pilots to communities across the country through a free, immersive mobile theater experience and historic aircraft display. https://loom.ly/ikOVSkI

The CAF Red Tail Squadron has unveiled its 2026 summer and fall schedule for the RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit and P-51C Mustang Tuskegee Airmen. The nationwide tour will bring the inspiring story of America’s first Black military pilots to communities across the country through a free, immersive m...

01/11/2026

A Cold War-era Saab Draken fighter currently in Chino, California, is set to begin a new chapter as Vintage Aviation Museum works to relocate the aircraft to Spanish Fork, Utah. The move is a major logistical effort, involving partial disassembly, oversize-load transport, permits, and specialized crews, with costs estimated between $30,000 and $40,000. Once relocated, the distinctive double-delta-wing jet will be placed on museum grounds and opened to the public. To make the move possible, the museum has launched a donation campaign, offering several levels of donor recognition to help ensure the aircraft’s preservation and future display. https://loom.ly/VB-XhbA

A Cold War-era Saab Draken fighter currently in Chino, California, is set to begin a new chapter as Vintage Aviation Museum works to relocate the aircraft to Spanish Fork, Utah. The move is a major logistical effort, involving partial disassembly, oversize-load transport, permits, and specialized cr...

01/10/2026

Rescued from Alaska on June 6, 2024—exactly 80 years after D-Day—a battle-scarred Douglas C-47 Skytrain that carried paratroopers into Normandy and later resupplied the 101st Airborne Division at Bastogne is beginning a new chapter. Now at the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base, the historic transport aircraft is undergoing a careful restoration to reflect its wartime appearance, preserving both the physical scars and the stories of its pivotal role in World War II airborne operations. https://loom.ly/exPzxQ8

Rescued from Alaska on June 6, 2024—exactly 80 years after D-Day—a battle-scarred Douglas C-47 Skytrain that carried paratroopers into Normandy and later resupplied the 101st Airborne Division at Bastogne is beginning a new chapter. Now at the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base, the his...

01/09/2026

On 9 January 1941, the Avro Lancaster prototype flew for the first time from RAF Ringway, confirming the viability of a new four-engined bomber design that would soon become central to RAF Bomber Command. Developed from the Avro Manchester and refined through extensive testing, the Lancaster proved capable, adaptable, and highly effective in wartime service. This article examines the circumstances of the prototype’s first flight, the evolution of the early designs, and the aircraft’s lasting legacy, from its wartime role to the small number of surviving examples preserved today. https://loom.ly/fWHs-uQ

On 9 January 1941, the Avro Lancaster prototype flew for the first time from RAF Ringway, confirming the viability of a new four-engined bomber design that would soon become central to RAF Bomber Command. Developed from the Avro Manchester and refined through extensive testing, the Lancaster proved....

01/09/2026

The Vulcan to the Sky Trust closed out 2025 with a mix of reflection, progress, and momentum. From the announcement of CEO Marc Walters stepping down after nearly a decade with the charity, to strong public support that secured vital funding for the year ahead, it has been a significant period for the Trust. Most notably, XH558’s engines were run again after a long pause, welcoming thousands of visitors through tours, events, and education programmes. With sold-out sessions, expanded outreach, and planning already underway for 2026, the Trust enters the new year with renewed energy and continued backing from its supporters. https://loom.ly/koJ8oaE

The Vulcan to the Sky Trust closed out 2025 with a mix of reflection, progress, and momentum. From the announcement of CEO Marc Walters stepping down after nearly a decade with the charity, to strong public support that secured vital funding for the year ahead, it has been a significant period for t...

01/08/2026

The Swamp Ghost, a B-17E Flying Fortress that crashed in Papua New Guinea during World War II, has become a symbol of the fight to safeguard Pacific war relics. Removed from the swamp in 2006 and displayed overseas, the aircraft’s story raises critical questions about ownership, cultural heritage, and responsible preservation. Organizations like the South Pacific WWII Museum are working to protect these historic wrecks and ensure their stories remain part of the region’s history. https://loom.ly/UrW1T4E

The Swamp Ghost, a B-17E Flying Fortress that crashed in Papua New Guinea during World War II, has become a symbol of the fight to safeguard Pacific war relics. Removed from the swamp in 2006 and displayed overseas, the aircraft’s story raises critical questions about ownership, cultural heritage,...

01/07/2026

Starfighters Space, Inc. announced the completion of its Regulation A Initial Public Offering on December 18, raising $40 million through the sale of more than 11 million shares of common stock. The milestone positions the Florida-based company, which operates a fleet of supersonic F-104 Starfighters from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, to expand its STARLAUNCH programs and meet growing global demand for commercial satellite and payload launches. https://loom.ly/x0-r3O8

Starfighters Space, Inc. announced the completion of its Regulation A Initial Public Offering on December 18, raising $40 million through the sale of more than 11 million shares of common stock. The milestone positions the Florida-based company, which operates a fleet of supersonic F-104 Starfighter...

01/06/2026

The de Havilland Mosquito FB Mk.VI TE881 is undergoing expert restoration in New Zealand by AVSpecs, specialists in the legendary “Wooden Wonder.” With only a few airworthy Mosquitos remaining globally, TE881’s planned return to flight in 2026 promises to be a major milestone for historic aviation enthusiasts. Read the article on VintageAviationNews.com

The de Havilland Mosquito FB Mk.VI TE881 is undergoing expert restoration in New Zealand by AVSpecs, specialists in the legendary “Wooden Wonder.” With only a few airworthy Mosquitos remaining globally, TE881’s planned return to flight in 2026 promises to be a major milestone for historic avia...

01/06/2026

Planes of Fame’s Corsair spreads its wings. 🎥 Adam Estes

01/05/2026

Part two of the Hahnweide Old Timer Fly-In captured the extraordinary variety of vintage aircraft on display, from Danish KZ.IV ambulances and Swiss Dewoitines to Lockheed 12s and iconic U.S. Cubs. Over 250 aircraft from across Europe and the U.S. delighted visitors with flying displays, rare arrivals, and historic aircraft restorations. https://loom.ly/gnLA3Z4

Photos and article by Nigel Hitchman

01/05/2026

Part two of the Hahnweide Old Timer Fly-In captured the extraordinary variety of vintage aircraft on display, from Danish KZ.IV ambulances and Swiss Dewoitines to Lockheed 12s and iconic U.S. Cubs. Over 250 aircraft from across Europe and the U.S. delighted visitors with flying displays, rare arrivals, and historic aircraft restorations. https://loom.ly/gnLA3Z4

Part two of the Hahnweide Old Timer Fly-In captured the extraordinary variety of vintage aircraft on display, from Danish KZ.IV ambulances and Swiss Dewoitines to Lockheed 12s and iconic U.S. Cubs. Over 250 aircraft from across Europe and the U.S. delighted visitors with flying displays, rare arriva...