Fly Past

May 2018 FLYPAST 111

centre section is likely to take two or
three years, allowing plenty of time
to search for either wings or wing
drawings. Sam: “We are currently
exploring a couple of different
avenues – and we’re fairly confident

that there’s going to be wings at the

end of them.

“We can’t be sure about a

completion date, but we have 2024

in mind because it would be so

fitting to see a Typhoon back in

the air, 80 years after D-Day. They

weren’t particularly active on the

day itself but were essential in the

battles that followed. We’ve spoken

to a lot of restoration experts to get

an initial idea, and they all came up

with around the same timescale and

around the same costs, so we are

quietly confident that we can do it.

2024 is achievable – if we can raise

the money.

“We started the supporters club

to get things moving, and of course

to increase awareness, but naturally

we’re very keen to hear from any

potential sponsors or donors. What

we are not looking for is anyone to

purchase the aircraft – we formed

the charity to ensure that the

Typhoon is displayed both in the air

and on the ground for the benefit

of the public, and in tribute to the

crews.”

To have an example of the

aircraft that inspired the name of

the modern Eurofighter Typhoon

flying in time for an important

commemoration seems especially

worthy – but even if not achievable

by then, the prospect of an

airworthy ‘Tiffy’ is one to stir the

emotions of any red-blooded warbird

enthusiast. It’s a noble pursuit that

surely deserves your support.

Supporting the cause

The easiest way to assist the project is by joining the supporters’ club. Various

subscription packages are available with members enjoying behind-the-scenes

access, quarterly e-newsletters, discounted merchandise, access to members-only

days, volunteering opportunities and more. The Hawker Typhoon Preservation Group

hosts numerous open days at its Uckfi eld base, most of which can be attended by

both members and non-members. The next few dates have been confi rmed for May

27, June 24, July 29 and August 26, but see the website for full details.

“We formed the charity to ensure that

the Typhoon is displayed both in the air

and on the ground for the benefi t of the

public, and in tribute to the crews”

Rudder pedals and pilot’s seat.

Below
Engine parts donated by Belgian group Wings
of Memory.