A ‘Not for profit’ site  -  www.superbnewplanes.com  -  Publicity only

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‘Superb New Planes’ was finally inspired by seeing one of Michael (Mike) O’Sullivan’s, (of Supermarine Aircraft, Brisbane),  Spitfire Mk26s’ at the Booker Airfield Aeroexpo 2008 London, show. -I managed to get some video shots of this splendid example, which was apparently for sale. -The owner, John W. Pearson and his partners, Harry Luck and John Anderson, having built it from a kit; [they were all ex De Havilland employees at Leavesdon].  (I too was just a little suspicious about why he wanted to sell it? -Until I found that he now has to give up flying for medical reasons, being around 84 years of age! -He flew Mosquito’s during the war! -What a fantastic character!)

 

  It seems to me that the final years of these magnificent men and their flying machines coincides with the lament for our original values. It is also poignant that an Australian has to be the one to give a massive boost to preserving our lost heritage, with the introduction of the supermarineaircraft.com MK26 kit.

 

  The primary objective in creating this web site, is to show that many kit planes have been built over the years, but this particular one is totally unique being in riveted aluminium, very like the original. There are at least 15 in the UK., John Pearsons’ being the first to be completed and with 70 hours flown on it already.

 

  Aircraft kits, like all other kits, are never without their complications or build deficiencies. Having studied several kit suppliers of small aircraft one thing is clear. Just like golf, or any other sports, it is very self challenging. I have noted that some builders have chosen to change things considerably and not necessarily for the better, which remains to be seen. (No names - no pack drill). One amusing builder was puzzled when one of the fitters from Supermarineaircraft.com, during a visit in Texas, installed the landing gear motors upside down? -Well they would wouldn’t they, being from Australia!

 

  Yet another factor which comes into the build equation, is the bottomless pit of extra money and adequate tooling, which does not seem to be as much of a problem in the good old U.S.A. What I love about the American kit builder is that they are able to just shrug and say, ‘Heck, I’ll just put another one in.’ (It’s only money?)

 

  Apparently kit builders and of course light aircraft and small aircraft pilots or just builders, are aged between 40 and 70! -Just within the authors age group. At the upper end!

 

  There has been a government threat to place yet more restrictions on private aircraft and pilots, in the name of security. An industry which is already firstly highly responsible in this country and highly regulated. As we all know it is not an easy achievement to obtain -and hold onto- one’s PPL. I can’t think of any flying club which does not rate highly on the latter points. -So what the heck are they talking about?

 

  I would like to thank those who’s knowledge, articles and pictures abound on this site and will be seeking their permission prior to launching it on the search engines in due course. (Meanwhile, “Happy landings!”)

 

  Yet another primary objective, with this web site effort, is to enhance public interest in private aircraft and encourage investment in aircraft kit building with clubs, partnerships and various consortiums. The youth of today have very little to do apparently and this is one area where they could find a lasting interest as well as the self improvement activities. For example, just building the kits, or learning to fly gliders and going on to their PPL., and beyond.  As they say, ‘The sky is the limit?’

 

Edward Ashley-Smith, Consultant Engineer -Plastics.

 

  

 

 

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