Vintage Aviation News

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...

01/04/2026

Legendary aviation photographer Philip Makanna reflects on a lifetime spent capturing the dreams of flight. In this intimate conversation with Vintage Aviation News Publisher Moreno Aguiari, Makanna discusses his artistic philosophy, formative years, iconic moments at Duxford and Wanaka, and his concerns about preserving more than five decades of historically significant aviation photography. https://loom.ly/S0rpmZU

01/04/2026

Legendary aviation photographer Philip Makanna reflects on a lifetime spent capturing the dreams of flight. In this intimate conversation with Vintage Aviation News Publisher Moreno Aguiari, Makanna discusses his artistic philosophy, formative years, iconic moments at Duxford and Wanaka, and his concerns about preserving more than five decades of historically significant aviation photography. https://loom.ly/S0rpmZU

Legendary aviation photographer Philip Makanna reflects on a lifetime spent capturing the dreams of flight. In this intimate conversation with Vintage Aviation News Publisher Moreno Aguiari, Makanna discusses his artistic philosophy, formative years, iconic moments at Duxford and Wanaka, and his con...

01/01/2026

High winds on December 18, 2025, caused extensive roof damage to Hangar B at the Tillamook Air Museum, exposing the World War II–era blimp hangar to the elements and prompting an indefinite closure. As one of the few surviving naval blimp hangars in the United States, the historic structure now faces a complex restoration process amid continued storm threats. https://loom.ly/s1wzICM

High winds on December 18, 2025, caused extensive roof damage to Hangar B at the Tillamook Air Museum, exposing the World War II–era blimp hangar to the elements and prompting an indefinite closure. As one of the few surviving naval blimp hangars in the United States, the historic structure now fa...

01/01/2026

Happy New Year! 🥂

📸: