This is a unique year in respect of the Avro Lancaster. Only two remain airworthy and they are both in the UK, flying together at a number of displays this season.
The Battle of Britain Memorial flight operates the well-known Lancaster PA474 ‘City of Lincoln’, which is currently flying in the colours of DV385 ‘Thumper Mk III’ KC-A of 617 ‘Dambusters’ Sqn RAF.
It has been joined for a six week period by C-GVRA, which is operated by Canadian Warplane Heritage and is a Lancaster 10MR, built by Victory Aircraft Ltd in 1945. This aircraft is painted to represent KB726 VR-A of RCAF 419 Sqn. The aircraft is dedicated to the memory of P/O Andrew Mynarski VC and is painted in the colours of the aircraft in which he saved the life of his rear gunner after a German night fighter attack on Jun1 13 1944. Sadly, he lost his life from his serious burns and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry.
On 23 August, there was a Vintage Wings and Wheels event at Henstridge. Aircraft attendance was unfortunately restricted by a strong crosswind, although a number of Austers and a de Havilland Hornet Moth flown by Mark Miller did attend, along with a number of more modern aircraft. There was a large turn out of vintage and classic cars and a very large attendance from the general public, most of whom stayed to await the two Lancasters that arrived late in the day, just before 6 pm.
The two aircraft approached from the South West along the runway and then turned to port to return to the field and fly across the centre of the airfield and head off toward the South east.
A selection of photographs of the Lancaster pair are presented below:
