The Buzz

摘要

Aircraft of the now disbanded Royal Navy Historic Flight were officially handed over to the Navy Wings charity at RNAS Yeovilton on April 23,a move that should safeguard their future. Sadly, one of the aircraft in its charge-Hawker Sea Fury T.20 VX281-was severely damaged in an accident five days later."It is understandable that the defence budget can no longer support historic aircraft,"commented the charity's Cdre Jock Alexander. "However,with reduced funding the aircraft were in danger of being grounded."Before taking on this important aircraft collection,the charity became a fully compliant CAA-regulated operator. The Royal Navy will continue to provide some grant funding over the next five years, to ensure a successful transition.Navy Wings president,Admiral Sir George Zambellas, said he was delighted to be taking on the responsibility and that "innovation will unlock the challenges of keeping these beautiful old aircraft flying,linking the past with today,and inspiring the innovators of the future".In less happy news for the charity, its two-seat Sea Fury sustained extensive damage in an incident at Yeovilton on April 28. Thankfully,both crew are safe - they were taken to hospital as a precaution. The aircraft made a forced landing following an engine issue just outside the boundaries of the airfield.The authorities are currently investigating the incident.