60th Anniversary

of Air Corps Heli Operations

SOUVENIR PROGRAMME
www.brayairdisplay.com
 Forward
It is my honour to welcome you all back
to the annual air display at Bray and we
are particularly pleased that we have a
two day event with some great friends
making a welcome return.
I would like in particular to mention
the support of the Royal Air Force for
facilitating the visit of the BBMF and also
the Red Arrows.
Johan Landlin from Saab who has
facilitated the return of the Saab Viggen
which is always a crowd pleaser.
To all at Dublin Air Traffic Control for their
flexibility and support.
I would like to specifically mention
Derick Walshe and his amazing team at
Weston Airport, it is fantastic to see the
development Weston which will benefit
the local and wider aviation community,
Derick’s support for Bray and also the
generous support for the St Vincent
De Paul Aviation fundraisers are to be
commended
The Bray Air Display would not be possible
without the support of Wicklow County
Council and the extraordinary men and
women serving in the Defence Forces and
also the committee of Bray Summerfest
with a special word of thanks to Mick,
Wendy and Paul.
The ongoing support of Stephen Kavanagh,
Hugh Flynn, Gerry Waldron and Eamonn
Brennan and their efforts in assisting
with commercial sponsorship is greatly
appreciated and without whom we would
not be able to put on this great event.
Thanks too for the support and assistance
of the Bray Sailing Club and for laying out
the marker buoys which are an integral
element of the safety of the airshow
Finally my thanks to Brig Gen Rory
O’Connor, the Irish Air Corps are always
central to the Air Displays at Bray and I
would like to also congratulate Rory and
his colleagues on the 60 th anniversary
of helicopter operations at Baldonnel -
we are honoured to play a part in their
celebrations.
Sé Pardy
Display Director

Display Director: Sé Pardy
Event Controller: Mick Glynn
Operations Admin: Terry Symmans,
Andrea Gallagher, Mick Glynn,
Rebecca Mc Kenna
Commentary: Michael Comyn
PR, Digital Media: Paul Carney,
Louise Cassidy
Hospitality: Wendy Walsh
Programme Design: Martin Brady
Aerial Footage: Capt. Dara
Campbell
ATC: Darren Pollard, Keith McEvoy
and their colleagues in ATC Dublin,
ATC Baldonnel
FCC: Brian O’Sullivan,
Dave O’Riordan, Daragh Gunning
Regulatory Liaison: Jason Phelan,
Ruth Bagnell, Maria Sweeney  Supporting Airports:
Photographers: Frank Grealish
NTWC, Pat L Ryan, Jason Phelan,
IAC, IHFF, RJF, Sonya Cooley,
Darren Harbour, Aoife Hester & RAF
Offshore Ops: Irish Naval Service,
Bray Sailing Club
Transport: Michael Coughlan
Heli Marshallers: Kieran
Cushnahan, Michael Bergin,
Paul Campion, Rob Merrigan,
Dave Collen
Heli Services: Executive Helicopters
Weston, Baldonnel,
Dublin Comms: Jerry Dawson,
Robert Daranowski  Wicklow
Council Liaison: Linda Healy
Wicklow County Council’s
Chief Executive: Emer O’Gorman

2 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

Contents
Forward........................................................ 2
Contents....................................................... 3
Wicklow County Council......................... 4
Irish Air Corps. . ............................................ 5
History of Weston...................................... 6
Irish Air Corps 104 Squadron
“Hawkeyes” Pilatus PC-12 NG . . ............... 8
CASA CN235. . ............................................ 10
AgustaWestland AW139. . ........................ 11
Airbus Helicopters EC135P2+.. .............. 14
Pilatus PC-9M........................................... 14
The Silver Swallows................................. 16
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight....... 20
Spitfire Mk Vb AB910. . ............................22
Spitfire Mk LF IXe MK 356.....................24
Spitfire Mk XVI TE311.............................. 25
HURRICANE Mk IIC PZ865.................. 26
HURRICANE Mk IIC LF363. . ...................27
LANCASTER MK1 BI PA474.. ................. 28
Red Arrows............................................... 30
Do You Dream of Being a Pilot?..........34
Display Participants............................... 40
The Black Knights. . ..................................42
Tecnam.......................................................44
Eddie Goggins CAP 232 G-IIAI............ 46
The Irish Historic Flight Foundation... 48
ASL Airlines. . ............................................. 54
SAAB Viggen – SE-DXN......................... 58
Sikorsky S-92............................................ 59
Royal Jordanian Falcons. . ..................... 60
Team Stearman. . ..................................... 63
PBY-5A Catalina Flying Boat............... 64
Emerald Airlines.. .................................... 68
Aer Lingus................................................. 70
P51 Miss Helen..........................................72
Team Raven – Formation Aerobatic
Display Team. . ...........................................74
Keeping People and Society Safe. . .....78
AeroSuperBatics..................................... 80
Executive Helicopters. . .......................... 82
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 3
 Wicklow County Council
is delighted once again to
host the Bray air Display.
Wicklow County Council is
delighted once again to host
the 2023 Bray Air Display
Wicklow County Council has proudly
supported the Bray Air Display since 2005.
The participation of many world famous
flying acts is testament as to how highly
regarded the Bray Air Display is held within
international aviation circles. This family
event is one of the most popular air shows
in Europe and Ireland’s biggest air festival,
attracting thousands of eager spectators
to our wonderful seaside town to witness
amazing aerial aerobatics.
There are many challenges associated with
organising such a spellbinding event in Bray,
from crowd control and event management,
to the provision of access and services,
ensuring that adequate catering facilities,
parking and other support services are all in
place over the weekend.
By addressing all these challenges and
building on the success of previous years
we can ensure that the visitor’s air display
experience is an enjoyable one and that we
provide a memorable, safe experience for
visitors to the Bray Air Display.
4 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
I would like to acknowledge the Irish Aviation
Authority’s considerable support over the
years for the Bray Air Display and we look
forward to hosting many more Air Displays
in Bray.
Finally, I would like to pay tribute to the
numerous contributions and endless efforts
given to the organisers of the event, leading
up to the event, on the days of the event
and the following days by Bray Summerfest,
An Garda Síochána, Wicklow Civil Defence,
Wicklow Fire Service, Bray Municipal District
staff, the Order of Malta and Sé Pardy Display
Director and his team.
On behalf of the Cathaoirleach and Members
of Wicklow County Council and all of Bray Air
Display Team I wish you a safe and enjoyable
experience while attending Bray Air Display
event.
Emer O’Gorman
Chief Executive,
Wicklow County
Council
Irish Air Corps Celebrates
60 Years of Helicopter
Operations
The Irish Air Corps is delighted to support and display for the public at this year’s Bray Air
Display given our successful 2022 Centenary celebrations.

This year will be unique as we celebrate 60 years of helicopter operations, marking a

significant milestone in the history of aviation for the State.

Since the introduction of its first helicopter in 1963, the Irish Air Corps has been at the
forefront of pioneering efforts in helicopter flying and introducing new technology serving
the people of Ireland with unwavering dedication and professionalism. We are really looking
forward to having the opportunity to display Air Corps aircraft over the weekend.”

Rory O’Connor – General Officer Commanding Air Corps, Brigadier General

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 5

 History of Weston
Ireland’s Only Dedicated Executive Airport
Established by Darby
Kennedy in 1931, Dublin
Weston Airport has an
illustrious history in the
development of Irish
Aviation. From flying
clubs to air displays to
flight training, Dublin
Weston Airport has been
an aviation pioneer for
more than 90 years.
Many past and current pilots,
flying commercially, started
their journey to become pilots
at Dublin Weston Airport.
The  National Flight Centre
pilot academy, one of Europe’s
most respected and longest
established flight training
academies, has operated at
Dublin Weston Airport since
1977.
Over close to a century,
Dublin Weston Airport has
undergone many additions
and enhancements, including
a tarmac runway, new control
tower, hangers, VOR and a
terminal building. In 2021,
the airport was bought by
a consortium of aviation
enthusiasts and through their
investment will take the airport
into the 21st century and build
on its illustrious history.
Dublin Weston Airport is in
Class “C” airspace, known as the
“Weston Area of Responsibility”
or AOR. During published
opening hours, an Air Traffic
Control Service is provided.
(Freq 122.4), call sign “Weston
Tower”.
Instructions and clearances
are issued in accordance with
Rule 27 of S.I. No: 72/2004
(Rules of the Air). Pilots are
reminded, on first contact, to
listen first before transmitting
as the frequency can be busy
especially at weekends during
summer time.

Weston Airport
· 250 Acres in South County Dublin /
Kildare
· 924m x 23m Tarmac Runway
· Grass Runway
· Jet A1, Avgas and Mogas Refuelling
· Full Air Traffic Control
· 4,400 SQM of Temperature
Controlled Hangarage
· Apron Parking
· Extensive Security Fencing
· 24/7 CCTV
CAT 3 Fire Cover · Free Car Parking
CAT 4 Fire Cover (PPR) · Speedy Transfer through the airport

6 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 Pilots’ Lounge
· Pilots’ lounge
· Dedicated Pilots’
Lounge with Rest Area
· Pilots Planning Pods
· Weather Services
· Free WiFi
· Complimentary
Tea & Coffee

Weston Airport General Aviation

· First class facilities 20 minutes from Dublin Weston Airport offers the General
Aviation enthusiast convenient hangarage,
Dublin City parking, fuelling and access to all terminal

· Latest amenities for our business jets facilities.

· Hangar Facilities · Full ATC
clients
· Refuelling · Pilot Briefing
· Newly renovated passenger lounge will
· Parking Pods
provide the ideal location to relax and
await your flight · Grass Runway

· Seamless and speedily transfer from

landing and onward to your destination FBO Services
Our friendly Front-of-House team are on hand to · Aircraft Parking
organise and assist with your needs, to include:
· Aircraft Ground Power
· Courtesy Shuttle
· Baggage Transfer
Chauffeur Aircraft On-board Discreet · Modern Passenger VIP Terminal
·
Drive Parking Catering Handling
Hotel & Car Rental Reservations
· Business Facilities and Conference
Technical Data Room
Runway Data · Fee WIFI, TV and Telephone Service
(VOR Based Instrument Approach On Runway 25, · Hot & Cold Beverages
Pending IAA Approval)
· Departing Passenger Assistance
Runway 07 Runway 25 · Flight Planning

Length 924m 924m

Coming Soon
TORA (M) 924m x 23m 924m x 23m
· Aircraft Lavatory / Portable Water
Service
TORA (M) 924m x 23m 1381m
· Oxygen / Nitrogen / Compressed
ASDA (M) 924m x 23m 1381m Air

LDA (M) 924m x 23m 1381m

· Aircraft Cleaning

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 7

 IRISH AIR CORPS 104 SQUADRON
“HAWKEYES” Pilatus PC-12 NG
Since delivery of the
Pilatus PC-12 NG
“Spectre”, 104 Squadron
have completed a vast
array of flight operations
on this versatile aircraft.
With the delivery of Covid
Samples to Munich for testing,
numerous short notice Air
Ambulance missions to
the UK and Europe, Covid
Vaccines delivery to Defence
Forces Troops based in
Lebanon, Ministerial Air
Transport flights, Formation
fly pasts and also the build up
of Mission System Operator
training, the Squadron has
had a busy transition from
Reims Rocket to Spectre!
The PC-12’s predecessor, the
ageing Cessna FR172 Reims
Rocket was a familiar sight
in Irish skies and even at the
Bray Air Display. However
the transition from the
fuel injected piston to a
pressurised high performance
turbine has been a welcome
change on behalf of the pilots
and technical personnel. The
squadron has had to become
8 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
a multi pilot, all weather, day/
night multi role operation.
The challenge was to achieve
this within the previous
establishment and structures
of 104 Squadron, until a
more long-term change to
the establishment could be
implemented. This all had
to be achieved on time to
introduce three Pilatus PC-12
NG into service…..or so it was
thought!
In 2020 the world was struck
by the Covid-19 pandemic. In
response to a capability gap
identified within the Irish Air
corps, a decision was made
to purchase an additional
PC-12 NG and introduce it
into service without delay to
fulfil the Irish Air Corps part
in the fight against covid 19.
The timespan between initial
inquiry about purchasing an
additional PC-12 NG to the
delivery of tail number 280,
was achieved in a record
breaking 13 days. Typically,
the minimum amount of
time involved for an aircraft
acquisition is normally 2
years. The quick turnaround
involved a lot of hard work
by Irish Air Corps personnel,
military finance, Department
of Defence and Pilatus aircraft.
The arrival of “280” in April
2020 proved to be very
beneficial for a number of
reasons. Firstly, to provide
urgent logistical air support
to the state at the start of
the pandemic. Secondly, the
early introduction allowed
both technical and flight crew
to start building experience
on this new platform prior
to entry into service of the
“Spectre” variant.
Due to the high demand for
280, it arrived in an unusual
paint scheme for a military
aircraft as there was not
enough time to paint it in
Irish Air Corps colours. 280
has now transitioned from its
predominantly white and red
striped fuselage to a unique
heritage paint scheme to
celebrate the Irish Air Corps
Centenary. The aircraft is
now painted in the same
grey scheme of her sister
“Spectre” aircraft however the
wings and tail section reveal
a camouflage paint scheme
similar to that used on Air
Corps aircraft during the
Emergency period.
The subsequent “Spectre”
variant aircraft, 281 282 &
283 were delivered on the
10th September 2020. The
introduction of all these
new aircraft has been
transformational to the Irish
Air Corps and to the state in
fulfilling its roles on behalf
of the State. The fleet has
already proved their worth,
completing a host of logistical
tasks throughout the Covid
19 pandemic. To fulfil its
Intelligence, Surveillance and
Reconnaissance (ISR) and Air
Ambulance taskings, 281 282 &
283 were retro fitted by Pilatus
in Denver Colorado with a
suite of sensors including an
electro optical/infra red turret,
additional radios and mission
management systems as
well as the Life port stretcher
system.
The four PC-12 aircraft have
been utilised on a wide variety
of missions to date since entry
into service. Below is a map
of some of the destinations as
part of operational missions.
Notable Missions
have included:
Overseas missions
assistance: In July 2020 and
January 2021, 104 Squadron
transported officers and cargo
to the UN MINURSO mission
in Laayoune, a city in the
disputed territory of Western
Sahara.
In February, March, May
& Sept 2021 the squadron
provided assistance to
the MINUSMA mission
by delivering equipment
to Hannover for onward
transport by the German Air
Force to Mali.
In May & August 2020 and
January & August 2021, there
were resupply missions to
Kosovo on behalf of the NATO
KFOR mission.
In March & April 2021 along
with February 2022, there
were UNIFIL (Lebanon) and
UNDOF (Syria) resupply
missions.
Air Ambulance role: There
have been over 22 missions
performed to date in support
of the HSE to the UK and
Europe. Many of these
missions can be. Ad hoc in
nature. 280 uses the spectrum
system while the rest of the
fleet uses the life port system.
Ministerial Air Transport
role: As a contingency to the
Learjet and CASA CN235, the
PC-12 has been utilised as a
back up to provide this service
on a number of occasions.
Covid Test Sample Transport
role: Due to covid testing
capacity being exceeded
in Irish laboratories, No 1
Operations Wing using the
PC-12, CASA CN235 and
Learjet 45 transported covid
samples to both Munich and
Birmingham for testing, to
ensure a quick turnaround
of results. 04 Squadron
completed over 50 sorties
during the pandemic
transporting an estimated
500,000 samples.
Air corps support logistics
role: Personnel rotation for
AgustaWestland AW139 and
Eurocopter EC135 simulator
training in Helsinki and
Donauworth Germany during
the pandemic.
Flying training school support
with flight and technical crew
to Bouchs Switzerland.
The ISR Platform On-Board
the PC-12 “Spectre” provides
exceptional capability in
support of military units
such as the Army Ranger
Wing and regular forces as
well as providing support in
our ATCP and ATCA roles, to
include for example wildfire
firefighting and Search and
Rescue (SAR). Sitaware C2
Command and Control
software is fitted onboard the
Spectre aircraft. The software
can draw on data from the
multi-mission sensors that
are fitted to these aircraft
as well as information from
external sources. The fitting of
this particular mission system
suite enhances its capability in
the ISTAR role. In conclusion,
experience on type in both
the technical and flying field
will continue to develop.
As operational capability
expands, it is envisaged that
this platform may operate
overseas in support of UN
personnel in a command
and control aerial platform.
The technology on board
and reliable service delivered
to date, will ensure that 104
Squadron will continue to
achieve mission success for
the Irish Air Corps into the
future.
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 9

The Air Corps currently
operates two Casa
CN235 Maritime Patrol
Aircraft. These aircraft
entered service in 1994
and are primarily tasked
in the Maritime Defence
& Security Operations
(MDSO) Role.
Working in close conjunction
with the Naval Service, the
two CASA CN235 Maritime
Patrol Aircraft of 101 Squadron
provide an aerial platform
for patrolling the Irish
Economic Zone, an area of
approximately 132,000 square
miles or 16% of the total EU
sea fisheries. This in itself
represents an area almost five
times the land area of Ireland
and encompasses perhaps
one of the most productive
fisheries in the world. The
aircraft routinely operate in
the logistics role in support
of the Army and Overseas
missions in particular. On
board mission equipment has
also been used in support of
SOF training activity with the
Casas acting as command and
control aerial assets as well as
providing parachute insertions
for exercises. In addition to
10 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
CASA CN235
their military tasks, the Casas Government agreed contracts
also perform vital roles in with Airbus Defence & Space
support of other Government for the provision of two new
Departments and agencies. maritime patrol aircraft in the
101 Sqn regularly conduct off- shape of the Airbus C295MPA.
island air ambulance missions These aircraft will enter service
to the UK and to other in mid 2023 and represent a
locations in Germany and significant enhancement in
Belgium depending on the performance and surveillance
nature of the patient requiring equipment. The C295MPA has
specialist transport. During a tough act to follow but will
the COVID pandemic, CASA’s no doubt provide our “Eyes
were utilised to transport Over the Sea” for the next 25
vital medical equipment and years.
test samples to and
from Ireland and CASA CN235
have also conducted
2 x General Electric
humanitarian Powerplant
CT7-9C turbo props
resupply missions
to Beirut after Wing Span 8.12M (26ft. 8in.)
the devastating
explosion in 2020. Length 21.40M (70ft. 3in.)
The aircraft also have
Armament Not Applicable
a Search and Rescue
function either as on Entered Service 1994
scene co-ordination
platform or using 15,800 kgs. (34,800
Max T/O Weight
lbs.)
their ability to
deploy life rafts and Service Ceiling 25,000 ft.
surface markers /
illumination flares. Cruise Speed 180 Kts. (Patrol cruise)
However, today is
Max Speed 240 Kts.
likely the final public
display by one of the Endurance 8 hrs. (Plus reserves)
Air Corps’ CN 235s. In
December 2019, the Range 1,440 NM (Patrol ops)
AgustaWestland AW139
The Air Corps currently This system can provide a on board the aircraft for the
operate six Agusta- fully independent electrical, patient transfer.
Westland AW139. oxygen, Vacuum and air
These aircraft first source to medical personnel
entered service in
November 2006 and
are utilised mainly in
the army support & Air
Ambulance role.
The AW139 is a medium-
lift twin-engine helicopter
with a troop lifting capacity
of up to 14 personnel in the
normal configuration. In the
cockpit the aircrew have a
fully integrated digital avionics
and cockpit display system,
which includes an autopilot,
a dual flight management
system with GPS and a radio
navigation system.
AgustaWestland AW139
The AW139 can be equipped
Army support, air ambulance, military
with 2 FN Herstal M58 Roles
transport and general utility
machine guns for its air
support role. The machine Crew 2 pilots & up to 8 fully equipped troops
guns are mounted in the
Powerplant 2 x Pratt & Whitney PT-6C-67C turboshafts
forward windows of the
AW139 which doesn’t affect Wing Span 13.80 mts. (45ft. 3in.)
the troop carrying capability
Height 4.98 mts. (16ft. 4in.)
and as they are re-loadable in
flight the ammunition load Length 16.62 mts. (54ft. 6in.)
carried can change according
to the mission profile. The FN Armament 2 x FN Herstal M58
Herstal M58 can fire live/blank Entered Service November 2004
rounds and can be fitted with
infrared laser pointers for use Maximum T/O
6,000 kgs. (13,227 lbs.)
Weight
with Night Vision Goggles. It
can also be modified within Service Ceiling 20,000 ft.
to allow a fully independent
Cruise Speed 157 Kts.
Lifeport stretcher system
to be installed in the cabin. Maximum Speed 168 Kts.

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 11

 Airbus Helicopters EC135P2+
Having originally
entered service in
2005 the EC135P2+ is
currently operated by
302 Squadron.
The aircrafts versatility
combined with its wide
array of specialist equipment
allows it to adapt excellently
to the operational and
training requirements of
Number 3 Operations Wing.
Upon completion of their
Wings Course in the Flying
Training School (FTS) pilots
that are posted to Number
3 Operations Wing must
complete their Helicopter
Conversion Course (HCC) on
the EC135P2+. This diverse
course initially teaches
students basic skills such
as aircraft checks, hovering,
taking off, landing and
handling aircraft emergencies.
The students then progress
to learn a variety of advanced
12 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
skills that are required of an
operational military helicopter
pilot. These include many
different flying disciplines
such as low flying, confined
area landings, aerial sniping
and fast rope operations,
formation flying, cargo
slinging, flying with night
vision goggles (NVGs) and
instrument flying. The course
finally concludes with a
lengthy operational test where
students are put through their
paces using the aircraft to
complete a simulated mission
selected by their Squadron
Commander or designated
examiner. Upon successful
completion they will receive
their initial operational
qualification as a helicopter
pilot within No 3 Operations
Wing. The EC135P2+ is quickly
reconfigurable and can be
set up to preform countless
different tasking’s depending
on requirements of the day.
The aircraft is fully capable of
completing air ambulance
missions and is able to act as
a flying intensive care unit for
its patients using specialist
medical equipment which
can be fitted by technicians
in a matter of minutes. The
aircrafts speed and power
proves vital for this mission,
allowing the crew to minimise
transit times to hospitals while
carrying a skilled medical
team with the patient. 302
Squadron also regularly
works with the wider Defence
Forces and is able to provide
a variety of services to support
operations and advanced
training. Crews regularly
train to use the aircraft as an
airborne sniper platform in
conjunction with the Army
Ranger Wing (ARW). Missions
requiring heli-casting, hoist
operations and cargo slinging
are also regularly conducted
by the helicopter crews.
Number 3 Operations Wings Airbus Helicopters EC135P2+
night vision goggle (NVG)
capability allows it to conduct Airborne sniper platform, pilot & aircrew
all types of missions by both training (ab initio & advanced), military
Roles support & transport, cargo slinging, hoist
day and night in a variety
operations, air ambulance, aerial surveillance,
of weather conditions and parachute operations, general utility
environments. The EC135P2+
is also ideally suited to its Crew and
1 or 2 pilots + 1 crewman, up to 5 troops
Passengers
secondary role as a surveillance
and reconnaissance platform. Powerplant 2 x Pratt & Whitney PW206B engines
The aircrafts high speed, quick
Rotor Diameter 10.2 m
start up ability and relatively
low noise output compared Length 12.16 m
to other helicopters allow it
to fulfil this role with ease. Height 3.51 m
These qualities are due, in Entered Service 2005
part, to its modern design.
A ridged main rotor head, Max Take Off
2,910 kg
Weight
Fenestron tail rotor system,
auto flight control system Service Ceiling 20,000 ft
(AFCS) and full authority digital
engine controls (FADECs) Cruise Speed 120 kts
all contribute to it being an Max Speed 155 kts
extremely safe and capable
aircraft for its demanding Total Endurance 2 hrs 45 mins
multi mission role with the
Range 300 NM
Irish Air Corps.

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 13

 Pilatus PC-9M

The Air Corps currently

operates eight Pilatus
PC-9M aircraft. The
Pilatus PC-9 is a single-
engine, tandem two-
seat turboprop aircraft
designed to perform
basic and advanced
training missions for
military customers.
It was developed from the
successful PC-7 training
aircraft which was introduced
in 1978. Although it looks
similar, PC-9 only retains
9% airframe commonality
with the PC-7. The first PC-9
aircraft performed its maiden the Air Corps Headquarters identification, using state of
flight on May 7, 1984 and was at Baldonnel west of Dublin the art equipment. The PC-
first certified in September but can often seen on training 9M features modern avionics
1985. More than 260 aircraft and operational missions at including a Head Up Display
have been ordered by 15 air airports around the country. (HUD) and Electronic Flight
forces worldwide so far. The They also played a pivotal role
Instrumentation System (EFIS)
Air Corps currently operates during the security operations
where primary instruments
eight Pilatus PC-9M aircraft connected to the recent visits
are displayed. The PC-9M is
(serial numbers 260, 261, 262, of HM Queen Elizabeth and
fitted with a Martin-Baker
263, 264, 266, 267 and 269). US President Barack Obama.
These aircraft first entered The PC-9M is equipped with a CG-A Ejection Seat, which
service in 2004 and operate comprehensive, fully tandem- provides safe escape for the
as the main pilot training capable VFR/IFR avionics pilot from sea level to its
aircraft for the Air Corps. All package fornavigation, operational ceiling at any
seven aircraft are based at communication and airspeed greater than 65kts.

14 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 DRIVING AVIATION TO
PERFORM AT ITS BEST

AERCAP.COM Follow us /company/aercap /aercapnv /aercapholdingsnv /aercapnv

 The Silver Swallows
It is with great delight
and pride that the
Irish Air Corps have
announced the relaunch
of the Irish Air Corps
Aerobatic Display Team
– the Silver Swallows for
the centenary year of the
Irish Air Corps in 2022.
Formative Years While the
tradition of formation flying
was well established in the
Air Corps prior to the delivery
of the Fouga Magisters in
1975, no formal display team
existed. Initially the aircraft
continued the tradition
of formation flypasts for
ceremonial events, in addition
to its advanced flying and
tactical training roles, much
like its predecessor, the de
Havilland Vampire.
The early Fouga formation
teams trained and “worked-
up” sensibly from a 3 and
4-ship flypast to a 3 and
4-ship aerobatic display-
ready team over the first ten
years of service of the aircraft,
with the 1st official public
16 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
display of the newly branded
“Silver Swallows” 4-ship
aerobatic display team taking
place in 1987 for the 65th
Anniversary of the Irish Air
Corps at the Air Spectacular
in Baldonnel. From and prior
to its inception, the Silver
Swallows and previous Fouga
displays were designed to
take advantage of the jet’s
characteristics.
The display was constructed
to maintain the aircraft in
front of the crowd as much
as possible with smooth
formation changes coupled
with dynamic manoeuvres
and breaks spread throughout
the routine. The team gained
recognition at home and
abroad and there is no doubt
were highly successful in
promoting the Air Corps,
Ireland and its aviation
professionalism externally
while inspiring pride amongst
potential recruits and serving
Defence Forces personnel
internally. The Silver Swallows
continued to exist for the
following 10 years with the
final of many highlights being
the 1997 display season where
the team displayed at the
Air Corps 75th Anniversary
Families’ Day and other Irish
and European Air Shows.
Without doubt, the greatest
decoration and achievement
of the team was winning the
much-coveted Lockheed
Martin Cannestra Trophy
for the Best Display by an
Overseas Performer at the
Royal International Air Tattoo,
RAF Fairford in 1997. The Next
Chapter With the retirement
of the Fouga in 1998,
formation flypast and limited
display flying continued
on other platforms within
the Air Corps, however, the
brand of the Silver Swallows,
like the Fouga jets, did not
fly anymore. The delivery of
the PC-9M in 2004 saw a
modern turboprop trainer
replace the SIAI Marchetti
SF260 fleet as well as the
Fouga Magister fleet. This
aircraft afforded the Air Corps
to train the next generation
of pilots on a very capable
and modern platform, in
terms of systems and avionics.
Looking forward to
welcoming you on board.
Now flying to 14 destinations in North America.

aerlingus.com
 The aircraft continued the
tradition of air weapons and
combat training, secondary
to pilot and instructor pilot
training. In addition to these
core taskings, the Flying
Training School (FTS), as the
Squadron operating the new
PC-9Ms took up the mantle of
ceremonial flypast and display
flying. In a similar fashion to
the early days of operating
the Fouga, PC-9M crews built
steadily, year on year with
straight and level formation
flypast to wingover formation
manoeuvres to formation
aerobatics.
from the Flying Training School, axis and crowd line were key to
The addition of an internal assisted by all other operational our planning and preparation
smoke generating system
and support elements of the of the 2022 display season. It
came as a welcome addition
Air Corps. Without completely is every member of the teams
in 2016 for the centenary
spoiling the show, the ethos wish to continue the story of the
of the 1916 rising and has
of the Silver Swallows will be Silver Swallows as ambassadors
been utilised ever since
very much to the fore from the to Ireland and Irish aviation
for ceremonial and display
occasions. The Centenary technical support to the flying heritage, commemorating the
Edition While we may not have display in 2022. The original past, celebrating the present and
the iconic V-shaped “swallows” concept of a safe, graceful
inspiring the future.
tail, we have built a formation display of 4-ship formation
display for this season playing aerobatics coupled with dynamic Paul McDemott, Captain,
tribute to our heritage and roots manoeuvres interspersed Silver 1,
in Irish military aviation. The team throughout, all maintained within Team Leader,
consists of pilots and technicians close proximity of the display The Silver Swallows

18 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 WHEN EVERYTHING’S ON THE LINE,
SECURE PARTNERSHIPS MATTER.

© 2023 Lockheed Martin Corporation

 The Royal Air Force (RAF) Battle of Britain
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF commemorates
all those who have lost their lives serving
Memorial Flight in the RAF, or its predecessor the Royal
Flying Corps, in all conflicts from 1914 up
to the present day.

The BBMF fleet of World War
Two aircraft is preserved in
flying condition as a living
tribute to them, to promote
the modern day Air Force and
to inspire future generations.
The Flight’s motto ‘Lest We
Forget’ says it all.
RAF BBMF History &
Background
Inaugurated as the “RAF
Historic Aircraft Flight” on
11th July 1957 at RAF Biggin
Hill in Kent, the Flight initially
consisted of three PR Mk XIX
Spitfires and the RAF’s last
airworthy Hurricane, LF363.
The Flight was soon renamed
the “Battle of Britain Flight”
and then in 1969, to reflect its
wider commemorative role, it
became the “Battle of Britain
Memorial Flight” (BBMF).
Between 1959 and 1965 the
Flight had only one Spitfire
(PM631) and one Hurricane
(LF363) on its strength. Now,
as a “museum without walls”,
it maintains twelve historic
and irreplaceable aircraft in
airworthy condition: an Avro
Lancaster, a C-47 Dakota, six
Spitfires, two Hurricanes and
two de Havilland Chipmunk
training aircraft.
The BBMF is a regular RAF
unit, manned by Service
personnel and funded by the
Ministry of Defence. Those
who serve with the Flight feel
extremely privileged to work
with and to fly the BBMF
aircraft, which are all precious
artefacts of the RAF’s and the
Nation’s aviation heritage.
RAF BBMF
Operations
The BBMF’s home is at
RAF Coningsby.
During the winter season –
from October to March each
year – the majority of the
Flight’s aircraft (except for the
Chipmunks) are kept on the
ground for extensive winter
maintenance to prepare them
for the next display season
and to ensure their long-term
preservation.
The display season normally
runs from the beginning of
May to the end of September
each year, with pre-season
work-up flying for the
crews taking place in April,
culminating in Public Display
Approval being sought for
each pilot from the Air Officer
Commanding No 1 Group.
During the display season all
the aircraft fly regularly and its
aircraft and crews deploy away
routinely on display duties.
Meanwhile, routine servicing
and rectification work also
takes place in the Flight’s
hangar.
The BBMF is typically tasked
to fly over 100 displays and
around 700 flypasts at
events of all shapes and sizes
during each display season,
generating around 1,000
individual aircraft appearances
each year.
The display programme
takes careful and extensive
planning, each sortie often
involving several events,

20 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

to maximise the
opportunities within
the limited aircraft
flying hours available
(the hours limits are
imposed to ensure the
aircraft’s long-term
preservation).
Applications for
appearances can be
made via the application form
on www.raf.mod.uk/display-
teams/battle-of-britain-
memorial-flight/.
The RAF BBMF Aircraft
Fleet
Some of the 12 BBMF aircraft
have remarkable wartime
histories of their own and
most have defied the odds
to survive as flying examples
of their kind Avro Lancaster
PA 474 is one of only two of
these iconic four engine heavy
bombers still airworthy in the
world It is a flying memorial
to the men of RAF Bomber
Command, especially the
55 573 who gave their lives
during World War Two A C 47
Dakota represents the dogged
work of the RAF’s military
transport aircraft and crews.
The Flight’s six Supermarine
Spitfires range from a 1940
Mk IIa the only surviving
flying Spitfire from the Battle
of Britain through
a Mk Vb a Mk IX, a
clipped wing Mk
XVI up to two photo
reconnaissance PR
Mk XIXs.
The Flight also
proudly holds on
its strength two
Hawker Hurricanes
of 1944 vintage, including
the last Hurricane ever built,
PZ 865 the ‘Last of the Many’
Finally, the two BBMF de
Havilland Chipmunk T 10
training aircraft make up
the full complement Apart
from their own history, each
of the Flight’s ‘ represents
a specific aircraft of WW 2
with meticulously researched
colour schemes which
commemorate particular
battles, campaigns or theatres
of war, individual units
or particular RAF aircrew
with stories of amazing
and inspirational human
endeavour, courage and
fortitude.
RAF BBMF Engineering
The maintenance of the
Flight’s twelve historic aircraft
is the responsibility of the
RAF BBMF engineering
team, which consists of 40
RAF engineering tradesmen
headed by the Flight’s Senior
Engineering Officer.
This team co ordinates the
aircraft servicing programmes
during the winter
maintenance period and
through the display season,
ensuring that the correct
number and type of aircraft
are available to meet the
display commitments.
The BBMF engineers who
make up this relatively small
team have all volunteered
for duties with the Flight and
serve a nominal 3 to 5 years
tour of duty A small cadre of
full time reservist ( technicians
with long experience in
servicing these historic
aircraft provides invaluable
knowledge and experience.
Today the BBMF aircraft are
perhaps the most cared for
in the world and are certainly
maintained to a much higher
standard than was possible
during World War Two The
long term preservation of
these priceless pieces of our
national heritage is planned
on a long term basis, with the
ultimate aim of keeping the
aircraft flying forever.
Lest We Forget
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 21
 SPITFIRE Mk Vb AB910
Spitfire Mk Vb AB 910
flew 143 operational
missions in a remarkable
wartime history that
spanned almost 3
years on ‘ops’. Initially
allocated to 222 ( Natal)
Sqn at North Weald in
August 1941, the aircraft
was damaged during
a forced landing at
Lympne within days of
arriving. After repair,
it was re allocated to
130 Sqn at Perranporth,
Cornwall, flying convoy
protection patrols and
escorting daylight
bombing raids.
In June 1942 the aircraft was
delivered to 133 (Sqn at Biggin
Hill. ‘AB’ flew 29 ‘ops’ with this
unit, including four sorties
on 19 August 1942 during the
fierce aerial battle in support
of Operation ‘Jubilee’, the
Dieppe Raid. One of her pilots,
22 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
Flt Sgt ‘Dixie’ Alexander, was
credited with destroying a
Dornier 217 bomber in AB 910
during these combats.
AB910 continued to fly
operationally up to July 1944,
serving with 242, 416 and 402
(RCAF) Sqns, flying numerous
cover patrols with the latter
over the D-Day invasion beach
heads on 6 June 1944 and
afterwards. From mid July
1944, AB 910 was relegated to
support duties, initially with 53
OTU at Hibaldstow and later
527 Sqn (a radar calibration
unit).
On 14 February 1945, whilst at
Hibaldstow, ‘AB’ famously flew
with a girl on the tail! LACW
Margaret Horton, a WAAF
ground-crew fitter, was sitting
on the tail whilst the aircraft
taxied out to the take off point
(as was standard practice in
rough weather) without the
pilot, Flt Lt Neil Cox DFC*,
realising her presence. He
then took off with Margaret
still there. The combination
of her weight on the tail and
her grip on the elevator very
nearly had disastrous results,
but fortunately Neil was able
to maintain control and one
circuit later he landed with a
considerably shaken WAAF still
wrapped around the fin.
Post-war, ‘AB” was demobbed
and flew as an air racer for 6
years before being returned
to Vickers-Armstrong for
refurbishment in 1953. After
this it was displayed regularly
by the renowned Spitfire test
pilot Jeffrey Quill until being
donated by the company to
the BBMF in 1965.
AB 910 is now painted in the
colour scheme of a 64 Sqn
Spitfire at the time of ‘D-Day,’
with full invasion stripes.
Spitfire Mk Vb BM 327, ‘SH-
F’, named “Peter John I”, was
the personal aircraft of Flt Lt
Tony Cooper, one of the flight
commanders on 64 Sqn in
1944.
IRELAND
A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY
A stable base in a changing world
 SPITFIRE Mk LF IXe MK356
Built at Castle Bromwich,
Spitfire LFIX MK 356 was
allocated to the newly
formed 443 ‘Hornet”
Sqn, Royal Canadian
Air Force, at RAF Digby
in March 1944. MK 356
soon moved with 144
Wing to Holmsley then
to Westhampnett (now
Goodwood) and later to
Ford in Sussex.
On 14 April 1944, ‘MK’ flew its
first operational mission as
part of a ‘Rodeo’ fighter sweep
over occupied France, piloted
by 20-year old Canadian, Fg
Off ‘Gord’ Ockenden, who
flew 19 ‘ops’ in the aircraft.
From then on, MK 356 was
involved in fighter sweeps and
in attacking ground targets
by dive bombing and strafing
in the lead up to the ‘D-Day’
invasion and in support of the
landings and fierce fighting
afterwards.
In 60 days of furious flying
and fighting, ‘MK’ flew 60
24 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
operational sorties, was
damaged by enemy fire on
three occasions and suffered
three ‘wheels up’ landings. On
D-Day+ 1 (7 June 1944) during
a beachhead cover patrol in
MK 356, ‘Gord’ Ockenden’s
flight engaged four ME Bf
109 Gs “on the deck” He fired
at one of the ‘109’s and saw
his rounds hitting the enemy
aircraft. His wingman finished
it off and each pilot was
credited with a half share of
the kill. On 14 June 1944 the
aircraft’s third ‘wheels up’
landing of the war ended its
short but intense operational
life, as the next day the
Squadron moved to airfield
‘B 3 in France and ‘ was left
behind to be collected and
stored by a maintenance unit.
Post war, MK 356 was used
as an instructional airframe
at RAF Halton until 1951, and
then for the next 17 years
was a ‘gate guardian’ at
Hawkinge, Bicester, Locking
and Henlow. ‘MK’ featured as
a static airframe in the epic
film “Battle of Britain” in 1968
and then joined the RAF
Museum Reserve Collection.
In 1992 a complete restoration
to airworthy status was begun
by a team from St Athan. The
refurbishment was completed
in 1997 when the aircraft
flew again for the first time
in 53 years, subsequently
joining the BBMF. Spitfire
MK 356 is now painted in a
desert camouflage scheme to
represent Spitfire Mk IXC EN
152 ‘QJ-3’, which was one of
the Mk IX Spitfires operated
by No 92 Sqn alongside the
unit’s Mk Vs in Tunisia in 1943
One of EN 152 ’s pilots was
much respected RAF fighter
ace, Sqn Ldr Neville Duke DSO
OBE DFC**, who became the
highest scoring Allied ace of
the Mediterranean theatre of
war with a final victory tally of
26 plus 3 shared destroyed,
3 probables and 6 damaged
When Duke finally ceased
front line flying and went
home near the end of 1944, he
was still only 22 years old.
SPITFIRE Mk XVI TE311
Spitfire Mk XVI TE 311
was built at Castle
Bromwich as a low
back/bubble-canopy
Spitfire with ‘clipped’
wing tips She was taken
on charge by the Air
Ministry on 8 th June
1945 and delivered to No
39 Maintenance Unit at
Colerne where she was
placed in storage.
From October 1945 to
February 1946, TE 311 was
flown by the Handling Sqn
of the Empire Central Flying
School at Hullavington. After
a period in storage, in 1951 she
was allocated to No 1689 Ferry
Pilot Training Flight at Aston
Down. She was subsequently
allocated to the Ferry Training
Unit at RAF Benson and then,
in early 1954 TE 311 served
briefly with No 2 Civilian Anti-
Aircraft Co-operation Unit at
Langham, Norfolk.
In December 1954, TE 311
was officially grounded and
transferred to non-effective
stock. For the next 12 years
the aircraft was a ‘gate
guardian’ at RAF Tangmere.
In 1968, TE 311 was loaned to
Spitfire Productions Ltd, who
temporarily modified it with a
false rear fuselage to resemble
a Mk 1 Spitfire and restored
it to taxying condition so
that it could be used during
filming of ground sequences
for the epic film ‘Battle of
Britain’. When filming was
completed, an RAF working
party restored the Spitfire
to its original configuration
and it was then allocated to
the RAF Exhibition Flight.
For over 30 years, from 1968
to 1999, TE 311 was displayed
as a static exhibit at many
air shows, regularly being
dismantled and re assembled
for transportation by road.
In January 2000 TE 311 was
delivered to RAF Coningsby
for ‘spares recovery’. The BBMF
decided that the aircraft
merited a re-build to flying
condition. In 2001 a small
team of engineers started
working on the aircraft in
their own time, until official
approval was received from
the Ministry of Defence in
2007 to return TE 311 to flying
condition as part of the Flight.
After a painstaking re build
lasting 11 years, the aircraft was
returned to an immaculate
and extremely authentic
standard, and took to the
air again, for the first time in
58 years, on 19 th October
2012. TE 311 is now painted
to represent Spitfire Mk XVIe
TD 322 3W-M’, of 322 (Dutch)
Sqn 322 (Dutch) Sqn is the
oldest of the operational
Dutch sqns within the RAF
during the Second World War,
and TE 311 will carry nose art
representing the squadron’s
mascot, a red tailed parrot
named Polly Grey.
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 25
 HURRICANE Mk IIC PZ865

The last Hurricane ever hands of the famous fighter Mk IIC BE634, coded ‘ZY-V’, of
built (of 14,533), PZ865 pilot and test pilot Bill Bedford 247 Squadron. The Squadron’s
rolled off the Hawker OBE AFC. It also appeared in Hurricanes were used for night
production line at the film ‘Battle of Britain’. In air defence of the Plymouth
March 1972, after a complete and Exeter area and for night
Langley, Bucks, in July
overhaul, PZ865 was flown to intruder operations against
1944 with the inscription
Coltishall and presented by targets in north-western
‘The Last of the Many’ on Hawker Siddeley to the BBMF. France.
her port and starboard PZ865 currently appears in an
sides. all-black night-fighter colour
Keen to preserve the last scheme, replicating Hurricane
Hurricane built, Hawkers
purchased the aircraft back
from the Air Ministry and
kept it in storage at Langley.
In 1950, PZ865 was entered
in the King’s Cup Air Race
by HRH Princess Margaret.
Flown by Group Captain
Peter Townsend CVO DSO
DFC, it achieved second
place.
During the 1960’s, ‘PZ’ was
returned to its wartime
camouflage scheme and
made numerous display
appearances, often in the

26 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

HURRICANE Mk IIC LF363

Hurricane LF363 was rather unofficially, by a series The aircraft was seriously
built at the Hawker of front-line squadrons and damaged by the impact
factory at Langley near Station Flights, being flown and the ensuing fierce fire;
Slough. It first flew on ceremonial occasions and fortunately the BBMF pilot
appearing in various films. escaped with a broken
in January 1944 and
After a major re-fit at Hawkers, ankle and minor burns.
is amongst the last
LF363 became a founding Subsequently, LF363 was
Hurricanes to enter aircraft of the Historic Aircraft re-built by Historic Flying Ltd
service with the RAF. Flight, the forerunner of the between 1994 and 1998 and
The aircraft served with No 63 BBMF, when it was formed then re-joined the BBMF after
Squadron at Turnhouse, in 1957. 7 years out of action.
No 309 (Polish) Squadron at LF363 suffered a major LF363 is now painted to
Drem, where it was used on accident on 11th September represent the September 1940
shipping protection patrols off 1991 when, as a result of an colour scheme of Hurricane
the east coast of Scotland, and engine failure, it crashed on Mk1 V6665, ‘RF-J’, of 303
No 26 Squadron with which the runway at RAF Wittering. Kosciusko (Polish) Squadron.
it flew naval artillery spotting
and reconnaissance sorties
before the end of the War.
LF363 was then stored in
the open air at Langley,
waiting to be scrapped.
Fortunately, it was rescued
in mid-1949, largely through
the intervention of Air Vice
Marshal Stanley Vincent CB,
DFC, AFC. After arranging for
LF363 to be made airworthy,
Stanley Vincent himself led
the Battle of Britain flypast
over London in the aircraft in
September 1949.
Between 1949 and 1956, LF363
was held and maintained,

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 27

 LANCASTER
MK1 BI PA474
Lancaster MK1 BI PA474
is one of only two
Lancasters remaining
in airworthy condition
out of the 7,377 that
were built, the other
being Canadian BX
FM213 C-GVRA. PA474
was built at the Vickers-
Armstrong Broughton
factory at Hawarden,
completed on 31 May
1945.
The war in Europe had ended
a few weeks earlier so the
aircraft was modified for Far
East operations against the
Japanese as part of the ‘Tiger
Force’ and was first flown in this
configuration in August 1945.
Combat operations in the Far
East also ended before the
aircraft could be deployed and
instead it was stored with just
three hours and ten minutes on
the airframe.
28 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
From September 1948 to
February 1952, after conversion
to PR1 standard, PA474
conducted aerial survey
mapping work in East and
South Africa with 82 Squadron,
accumulating 2,000 airframe
hours, before being returned
to the UK. The Lancaster was
then loaned to Flight Refuelling
Ltd at Tarrant Rushden with
the intention of converting it
into a pilotless target drone.
Fortunately, the drone conversion
was cancelled and the Lancaster
was saved from a fate which
would almost certainly have
prevented it from being here
today.
Instead, PA474 was allocated to
Cranfield College of Aeronautics
in 1954 where she was modified
as a platform for testing
experimental aerofoil sections.
It served in this capacity at
Cranfield for 10 years, which
kept the aircraft airworthy,
although it flew only some 100
hours during that time.
In April 1964 PA474 was
adopted by the Air Historical
Branch for display as a static
exhibit in the proposed RAF
Museum. She was flown to
Henlow for storage in the open
air, to await the opening of the
new museum.
In 1965 the CO of No 44 Sqn –
the first unit ever to be equipped
with Lancasters and then flying
Avro Vulcans at Waddington -
gained permission for PA474 to
be transferred into the care of the
Sqn. An inspection found that the
aircraft was structurally sound
and permission was granted for
PA474 to make a single flight
from Henlow to Waddington on
18 August 1965.
After refurbishment, PA474
joined the BBMF in 1973, initially
at Coltishall, moving with the
Flight to Coningsby in 1976.
The Fighter Pilots
Officer Commanding Squadron Leader
BBMF Squadron Mark Long
Leader Mark Sugden
The Bomber Pilots
Bomber Leader Flight Lieutenant
Flight Lieutenant Paul Wise
Seb Davey
PA474 was officially adopted by
the City of Lincoln in 1975, and
permission was granted for the
aircraft to display the coat of
arms and the name of the City
on its nose, which it will always
do, regardless of which colour
scheme it wears.
PA474 is now painted on its
port side as Lancaster BIII
W5005, ‘AR-L’ “Leader” with
nose art depicting a kangaroo
in wellington boots playing the
bagpipes, representing the
mixed nationalities (Scottish,
Australian and Welsh) of its
crew at the time. W5005 flew
51 ‘ops’ with 460 Sqn (RAAF)
from Binbrook and was then
transferred to 550 Sqn at North
Killingholme.
On the starboard side PA474
wears the 50 Sqn code letters
Flight Lieutenant
Giles Croft
Flight Lieutenant
Chris Fairley
‘VN-T’, these being the code
letters of the aircraft in which Fg
Off ‘Dougy’ Millikin flew 27 of the
35 ‘ops’ on his tour with 50 Sqn.
The Battle of Britain memorial
Flight Pilots The Fighter
Pilots There are only two
full-time pilots on the strength
of the RAF BBMF: the Officer
Commanding (a Squadron
Leader) and the Operations
Officer (a Flight Lieutenant).
All the other BBMF aircrew are
volunteers with primary duties
in the wider RAF who fly the
BBMF aircraft mainly in their
own time – a considerable
commitment. The BBMF Spitfires
and Hurricanes are flown by
RAF fighter pilots. There are
normally five fighter pilots on
the team. One of these is the
present Officer Commanding
Flight Lieutenant Squadron Leader
Andy Preece MBE Mark Discombe
Squadron Leader Squadron Leader
Mat Moore Jamie Jackson
(OC) and one the next OC, who
serves as a volunteer for 4 years
to gain the required experience
before taking command. The
Bomber Pilots The Dakota
and Lancaster are flown by
RAF pilots with a background
on heavy, multi-engine,
multi-crew aircraft and they
volunteer to bring those skill
sets to the Flight whilst having
permanent roles elsewhere in
the RAF. There are normally
3 Lancaster / Dakota captains
on the Flight and 2 Dakota
captain / Lancaster co-pilots.
the Flight’s volunteer
Navigators, Flight Engineers
and Air Loadmasters are
all essential to the safe and
efficient operation of the
Lancaster and Dakota.
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 29
 IN 2023, those watching Arrows. I hope you get the “Also motivating every single
the Royal Air Force opportunity to not only see member of the team is the
Aerobatic Team will see and enjoy our show but feel knowledge of just how much
a display that is aimed inspired through aviation. enjoyment millions of people
get from seeing our aircraft
at inspiring and thrilling “Indeed, using the power of
performing a dynamic show
people of all ages and aviation to entertain, educate or precision flypast and
backgrounds. and influence is at the heart of we’re humbled to be able to
Each performance by the Red the Royal Air Force Aerobatic bring a colourful display to
Arrows is a demonstration Team’s mission. events across the country this
of what can teamwork can “This simple, yet clear focus is summer.”
achieve, both in-the-air and
underpinning all that the Red During 2023, the Red Arrows
on-the-ground.
Arrows do across the 2023 are performing aerobatics
Indeed, there are more than display season. with an eight-aircraft
140 people in the team –
reflective of the wide variety
of roles, skilled personnel and
dedication that are hallmarks
of the Royal Air Force as a
whole.
For this season, the team is
performing more than 60
times in the United Kingdom
and overseas.
The display, which is 20
minutes in duration, is created
and choreographed by
Squadron Leader Tom Bould,
who is Red 1 and in his third
year as Team Leader.
He said: “In 2023, it is with
immense pride and privilege
that I will be leading the Red

30 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023


formation, while the team’s
major national flypasts are
carried out using nine jets.
The first half of a display
consists of synchronised, large
shape aerobatics followed by
a more dynamic second part,
when the team splits up into
smaller sections.
Reds 6 and 7, the Synchro
Pair, perform the highly-
popular opposition
manoeuvres during the latter
part of the routine.
Sqn Ldr Bould said the team
was excited to support dozens
of airshows and events in the
Red Arrows’ 59th season.
He said: “Irrespective of the
location, these events bring
together individuals of all ages
and backgrounds and are
among the most important
and valuable dates in a
community’s calendar.
“For families, an airshow
is an experience shared
by generations, with each
remembering when they first
attended and the wonder,
sights and sounds of flying.
“The events often provide
many young people with their
first taste of aviation – and a
chance to start thinking about
a future career. Our team
members are testimony to
where those early dreams can
lead.
“While some may be enthused
to become a pilot, others
will be passionate about
engineering or one of the
countless support roles that
power aviation globally.
“It’s this tireless teamwork that
allows the Red Arrows to plan,
prepare and perform a new,
exciting display every season –
complete with loops, rolls and
trademark precision passes.”
Flying the BAE Systems Hawk
T1, the Red Arrows are made
up of experienced pilots and
more than 100 engineers and
essential support staff.
Together, they are
representative of the entire
RAF whole force, from Regular
and Reserve personnel, to the
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 31
 Civil Service and contractors.
They define the innovative
spirit of the RAF – a Service
that is fully inclusive, with
opportunities for all based
on merit alone, regardless of
background.
The Red Arrows have been
performing since 1965 and
had completed nearly 5,000
displays by the start of the
latest season.
Through these precision
displays, the team aims to
showcase the excellence of
the RAF, represent the UK
on the world stage and help
to promote British industry,
supporting the country’s
prosperity and international
partnerships.
The team’s Hawk fast-jets carry
a Union flag-inspired tailfin
design that emphasises the
32 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
Red Arrows’ responsibility as
national ambassadors.
Each of the pilots has previous
fast-jet operational, frontline
experience flying the Tornado
or the Typhoon, enabling the
RAF to secure the skies and
protect the nation and its
interests, 365 days a year.
Known as the Blues
because of the colour of
their display coveralls, the
team’s 120-strong support
team include skilled
engineers, drivers, suppliers,
administrators, public
relations experts and other
personnel.
Many of these individuals
are present, on the ground,
at displays and champion
activities and events that
highlight the importance
of science, technology,
engineering and maths – the
so-called STEM subjects.
For more information
about the team, follow @
rafredarrows on Twitter and
Instagram, like RAF Red
Arrows on Facebook, search
for #RedArrows online or visit
www.raf.mod.uk/reds
A wide selection of
photographs, video and rich
content is available to use at
www.defenceimagery.mod.
uk or by contacting the Red
Arrows communications team.
For more information, a digital
media pack or interviews
contact:
Andrew Morton – Red Arrows
Communications Manager
Coming in Autumn 2023

S P E C TA C U L A R

A stunning hardback book

Irish Air Spectacular 2 is a brand new collection of
spectacular aviation photography captured over Ireland.
Featuring the work of renowned aviation photographer
Frank Grealish and others, these images offer a unique
air-to-air perspective of flight against the backdrop of
our island.

Profits from the sale of this book will go to St. Vincent de Paul.
The first edition of Irish Air Spectacular sold out, bringing the
total raised by Aviation Fundraiser projects for St Vincent de Paul
over the past 10 years to €335,000.

On sale Autumn 2023 from www.irishairspectacular.ie

Society of St Vincent de Paul

 Do You Dream of Being a Pilot?
We know that you have so many questions about
becoming a pilot and here at Simtech Aviation,
we have all the answers!
The exciting and challenging journey
to becoming a commercial pilot is one
of the most rewarding experiences
that one can embark on. It is sure to fill
you, your family and friends with pride
at your amazing achievements and
provide you with the only career you’ll
ever need.
The road to becoming a Commercial pilot
can be completed at your own pace. You can
choose a dedicated full-time course, or it can
be completed in stages, which allows you to
work, earn money, and fly in your spare time.
The choice is yours!
So where does a budding pilot begin? 10 steps
to success coming right up!
Step 1: Introductory Flight
Visit a flight school or flying club and take your
first flight! These are known as introductory
flights. These are usually 1 hour long. This
includes a briefing by a licenced instructor,
covering the basic controls of the aircraft. The
instructor will perform the takeoff and landing
34 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
and once you are in the air, the instructor will
let you take the controls for the very first time!
A number of flight schools and flying clubs
at home and abroad where you can pursue
not only an introductory flight, but all of your
training! Such as National Flight Centre (NFC)
at Weston Airport: www.nfc.ie and Atlantic
Flight Training Academy (AFTA) in Cork airport:
www.afta.ie. Further afield in the UK, ACS
Perth: www.acsflighttraining.co.uk and Aeros
Training Organisation: www.Aeros.co.uk. And
in sunny Spain you can check out FTE Jerez:
www.ftejerez.com We have no doubt it will be
an exhilarating experience and most people
decide right there and then, I want to be a
Pilot! So, What next?
Step 2: Medical
This is a crucial and necessary step. All pilots
must have a valid medical. If you want to
be an Airline Pilot, you must gain a Class 1
medical. This takes place at the aeromedical
centre in the Mater Private hospital. This can
take many hours, but is completed on the
same day and you will be issued with your
Pilots Medical Certificate upon completion.
Contact: aeromed@materprivate.ie to book
your appointment or visit materprivate.ie – Aero
Medical for more details.
Step 3: Modular or Integrated
Now you simply choose the route that suits
you best. A full time committed course, which
is called Integrated, or a step by step route
which is known as Modular. Whichever route
you choose, both arrive in the same place. The
flight deck of a passenger Jet! Both require
progressive learning, helping you to attain
various licences and ratings along the way the
only difference being full time, or part time.
Both start with the all-important Private Pilots
Licence.
Step 4: Private Pilots Licence (PPL)
To gain your PPL you will need to complete 45
hours of instruction in a light aircraft. 35 hours
dual instruction and 10 hours supervised solo
time. Complete ground school theory and pass
9 Irish aviation authority exams and 1 flight test
where you will be awarded your private pilots
licence.
Step 5: Night Rating
A night rating is required to move on to the
next stage. It gives you the skills, confidence
and rating to fly at night. It will be conducted
at a controlled airport like Cork, Shannon or
Dublin and will take an additional 5 hours of
flight. Gaining your PPL and night rating will
ensure you have all of the most important basic
skills to enjoy flying any time you want! But why
stop there?
Step 6: ATPL
Airline Transport Pilots Licence theory
examinations. This is probably the slowest
part of your training and will require absolute
dedication in order to pass. There are 14 Exams
in total. This can be done in an instructor led
environment with our partners at ASG.ie or in
a self-study format from home which takes
longer. The ATPL exam certificate is required
before you are permitted to take on your
commercial pilots licence. Each exam has a
pass mark of 75% but most students exceed
this substantially.
Step 7: Instrument Rating (IR)
The instrument rating portion teaches a pilot to
fly in the clouds with no visual reference to the
ground. This is the point at which most pilots
really feel like professional pilots. The ability
to take off and climb high above the clouds
safely relying on just your instruments, skills and
knowledge is a feeling like no other!
Step 8: Multi Engine Rating (ME)
This is the next level of flying! You will get to
enjoy the challenge of a slightly larger aircraft
with two engines. It can be completed on
its own, or as part of your CPL or Instrument
Rating (MEIR) and includes general handling
and flying with one engine failed! You are
required to have accumulated 70 hours of solo
flying known as PIC time (Pilot in Command)
before commencing your Multi engine training.
Step 9: Commercial Pilots Licence
(CPL)
The CPL legally allows you to fly for hire or
reward. You need to have accumulated 100
hours to begin your CPL and the course itself
takes an additional 25 hours of flight time. 5
of these hours can include the night rating.
This is similar to the PPL course, but the flying
standard and skill set you learn is to a higher
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 35
 degree of proficiency and a greater emphasis
is placed on navigation skills and emergency
procedures. You will build hours in between
each of the steps and you will need a total of
200 hours prior to taking your CPL flight test.
Now you have completed these steps, you have
in your hands a shiny news ATPL licence and
you are ready for the final step!
36 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
Step 10: MCC / APS Course
Congrats! You have made it! This final course
completes your training and now you are ready
for your airline interview!
An MCC or APS course is the vital last step
in producing the finished product of a
Professional Pilot. MCC stands for Multi Crew
Co-operation and APS stands for Airline
Pilot Standard. Both of these courses take all
of your existing training into a professional
environment and enhances them with all the
knowledge skills and attitudes needed to work
in a professional multi crew environment and
best of all, It teaches you how to fly the Big
airline Jets that you have been dreaming about!
The MCC certificate is the minimum required
to gain an airline interview. It involves 3 days of
ground school instruction and 7 days (28 hours)
in a Boeing 737 Simulator. This is 5 days of MCC
and 2 days of Jet Orientation Course (JOC).
APS is simply a more advanced MCC/JOC
course, which best positions you to have
a greater awareness of airline operating
standards and includes 4 days of ground school
and an impressive 10 days (40 hours) in a
Boeing 737 Simulator with extensive technical,
non-technical, normal and emergency
procedures covered.
 Simtech Aviation
Simtech Aviation is an award winning training organisation with state-of-the-art facilities and next-
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With 20 years experience, Simtech delivers a wide variety of world-class training for cadets and
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All courses are delivered by a team of vastly experienced training captains, who fly with a wide
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Be Airline Prepared and book in for a Pre-Assessment or Refresher Course and maximise your
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Follow us on
 Which course you choose is up to you, but here
at Simtech Aviation we provide both of these
courses to award winning standards. They are
comprehensive, broad ranging and non-airline
specific, expanding your career opportunities
by making you the perfect candidate for all of
Europe’s Airlines!
For more information, contact us any time and
we are happy to guide you and support you on
your journey to your dream career in the skies!
We have Airline Captains on hand to answer
your questions and point you in the right
get to do the thing you love. Other jobs include
direction. Website: www.simtech.ie
Aerial photography pilot, parachute pilot and
The Job Market corporate jet jobs flying VIP’s around the world
are also exciting career paths.
Here is an almost constant demand for
pilots throughout Europe and between pilot Irish Air Corps
retirements and aircraft orders there currently
The Irish Air Corps offer cadetships to become a
exists a pilot shortage for the foreseeable
pilot and this would not only require a passion
future. There is never a better time to start your
for aviation, but also for military service as it
aviation career!
is primarily a military position. The selection
Many airlines have an ongoing hiring process, process can be gruelling and is not for the faint
and it is best to keep your aviation training of heart! It is no doubt a rewarding and unique
as broad as possible to ensure maximum route to take!
opportunities are available to you once you
Whatever your dreams, we at Simtech Aviation
complete your 10 step training process.
encourage you to follow yours!
But there are other routes outside of airlines.
With your licence you can go on to become an
instructor, passing on your knowledge and skills
to the next generation of pilots and flying up to
900 hours per year and earning a salary as you

38 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 Display
Participants
Irish Air Corps 104 Squadron
“Hawkeyes” Pilatus PC-12 NG . . .................... 8
CASA CN235. . ................................................. 10
AgustaWestland AW139. . ............................. 11
Airbus Helicopters EC135P2+.. ....................14
Pilatus PC-9M.................................................14
The Silver Swallows...................................... 16
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight............ 20
Spitfire Mk Vb AB910. . ................................. 22
Spitfire Mk LF IXe MK 356.......................... 24
Spitfire Mk XVI TE311....................................25
HURRICANE Mk IIC PZ865........................26
HURRICANE Mk IIC LF363. . ........................ 27
LANCASTER MK1 BI PA474.. .......................28

40 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

Red Arrows.................................................... 30
The Black Knights. . ....................................... 42
Tecnam............................................................ 44
Eddie Goggins CAP 232 G-IIAI..................46
The Irish Historic Flight Foundation. . ......48
ASL Airlines. . ...................................................54
SAAB Viggen – SE-DXN...............................58
Sikorsky S-92..................................................59
Royal Jordanian Falcons. . .......................... 60
Team Stearman. . ...........................................63
PBY-5A Catalina Flying Boat.....................64
Emerald Airlines.. ..........................................68
Aer Lingus...................................................... 70
P51 Miss Helen............................................... 72
Team Raven – Formation
Aerobatic Display Team.............................. 74
AeroSuperBatics.......................................... 80
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 41
 The Black Knights
The Air show will again
this year welcome
the Defence Forces
Parachute Display Team.
Apart from being an
Operational Capability,
Defence Forces Parachuting
remains an adventure training
activity open to all members
of the Defence Forces, both
permanent and reserve. It is
a competition sport and a
Public Relations asset.
Parachuting in the Defence
Forces continues to be group of dedicated individuals recognised qualifications
organised, trained and who possess the necessary to conduct parachuting to
administered by a small, core skills and internationally the highest international
standards.
Members of the display team
have competed internationally
at the highest levels at
formation and accuracy
skydiving, often as the Irish
National Team. Added to
this, the “Black Knights”
display team also carries out
a number of high profile
display jumps annually as part
of the Defence Forces Public
Relations effort.

42 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

Contemporary new
homes by Ballymore
coming soon to Bray.

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST TODAY

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Tecnam
NFC’s P2006T MkII is a
twin-engine four-seat
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It offers innovative design
with the Garmin 1000 NXi
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The P2006T is also equipped
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Fitted with two Rotax 912 S3
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impressive 9 USG/h 34 lt/hr
fuel burn. Max cruise speed is
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650NM.

44 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 Bray Sailing Club
has been at the We welcome new members (both
centre of the young and not so young), and offer
local community a wide variety of training and sailing
since 1896 and opportunities from racing to cruising
runs courses for in both cruisers and dinghies.
adults and juniors
throughout the
sailing season.

Visit us at: Or Email:

www.braysailingclub.ie info@braysailingclub.ie

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 45

 Eddie Goggins CAP 232 G-IIAI
The Make-A-Wish CAP
232 aircraft will be
flown by Eddie Goggins.
Eddie has been flying
aerobatics for more than
27 years and has been
doing public air shows
for 20 years.
This AVIONS MUDRY CAP 232
aircraft is a French designed
single seat unlimited
aerobatic wonder plane The
French National team have
won several World Aerobatic
titles since the late 1990s with
CAP aircraft. Eddie Goggins
competes for Ireland at
international competitions.
He has had previous success
at World competition winning
a Bronze medal for Ireland
flying an Extra 300 but he
says this CAP is more capable
and he hopes for even greater
success.
The CAP 232 is light (615kg)
and very agile! It has a 304
horse power, 9 litre, 6 cylinder
engine. During a display, it
guzzles about 1½ litres of fuel
every minute! This CAP 232
has a large 4 Blade Propeller
spinning at 2700 rpm. The
46 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
big spinning MT propeller is
a powerful gyroscope. The
large rudder and elevator can
create sudden rapid yawing
and pitching movements.
Moving the propeller disc
so dramatically, will unveil
the often misunderstood
gyroscopic forces necessary
to make modern aerobatic
aircraft tumble in seemingly
unnatural and impossible and minus 7G. That means
looking ways. that at times Eddie will weigh
as much as 127 Stone… that’s
Surprisingly, when you push nearly a Metric Tonne! On the
the stick forward and the other hand when he pushes
nose yaws left / Pull and yaw
the control stick forward
right. A boot full of left rudder
curving through the air
and the nose pitches up /
upside-down, the centrifugal
Right rudder and expect a
forces try to throw him out of
pitch down. When flying at
the cockpit with up to 7 times
more than 100 knots, the
the force of gravity. That’s why
longitudinal and directional
stability of the aircraft will he has 7 Seat Belt Straps!
largely mask and overpower The SMOKE that you see is
the gyroscopic forces of the from Warter Aviation. It is very
propeller. But at lower speeds, similar to baby oil, and Eddie
a pilot can exploit these forces uses it as it is cleaner and
and supplement them with more environmentally friendly
control inputs that result in than using old fashion diesel
a new dimension of flight to produce smoke.
making impossible-looking- The smoke is created by
tumbles… Possible! injecting the Warter Aviation
Today’s flying display will smoke oil directly into
involve G FORCES of plus 9 the exhaust stack where
it vaporizes. It has a pleasant odour and CAP 232 G11A1
Eddie says it keeps his skin SOFT! Eddie has
developed this routine after years of training Maximum diving
400 km/h (216 knots, 250 mph)
and you are watching manoeuvres such as: speed:

• The Towering Spiral Cravat Maximum level 330 km/h (178 knots, 205 mph)
speed: at sea level
• The Salmon Leap
• The Knife Edge spin Normal Cruise 300 km/h (162 knots, 186 mph)
speed: (75% power)
• Vertical Negative Flick Rolls
Stall speed: 90 km/h (49 knots, 56 mph)
• Reversing Torque Rolls
Range: 900 km (500 nm,)
• The Vertical Lomcevak
• Nose over Tail Ruade Tumbles Rate of climb: 16 m/s (3,150 ft/m)
• The Tail slide Wing loading: 74.0 kg/m² (15.2 lb/sq ft)
• Knife Edge and Inverted Power loading: 0.31 kW/kg (0.19 hp/lb)
• Upside-Down fly pasts.
G-loads: +10; -10g
Eddie lives in Dublin, and he works
weekdays as a dentist in Cabinteely Village Fuel: 175 L
in Dublin. He has been nick named “THE Length: 6.75 m (22 ft 1¾ in)
FLYING FANG FIXER!!!!!!!”
Wingspan: 8.80 m (26 ft 6 in)
On weekends Eddie also works as a
flying instructor teaching advanced flying Height: 1.90 m (6 ft 2¾ in)
techniques. Eddie had his first flying
Wing area: 9.86 m² (106 sq ft)
lesson at the age of 18 in Dublin Weston
Aerodrome. It took him 5 years to save the Empty weight: 615 kg (1,350lb)
money to get a private pilots licence. Since
then he has accumulated over 2500 hours Loaded weight: 730 kg (1,609 lb) (aerobatic)
in aeroplanes and 400 hours in helicopters. Max. takeoff weight: 820 kg (1,807 lb)
He is qualified on over 40 different types of
300 hp Lycoming AEI0-540-L1 B5D
aircraft and has flown everything from Powerplant:
air-cooled flat-six cylinder 9 litre engine
hang-gliders to Citation Jets.

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 47

 The Irish Historic
Flight Foundation
The Irish historic Flight Foundation (IHFF) is an industry initiative
dedicated to the varied and rich aviation history in Ireland.
The main goals for the
IHFF are to celebrate
and commemorate the
very significant role
Ireland and Irish people
have played in the
world of aviation, whilst
looking to the future to
educate, engage and be
pro-active in developing
interest in Irish aviation,
predominantly in
Ireland, but also to a
wider audience further
afield.
Established in December2014
the joint industry venture is
supported by the Irish Aviation
Authority (IAA), Irish Air Corps,
Department of Defence,
Aer Lingus, Ryanair and ASL
Airlines Ireland. A team of
volunteer engineers, pilots
and aviation enthusiasts are
at the heart of keeping alive
and supporting the activities
of the IHFF, to ensure the
value and continuance of
the IHFF’s short and long
term goals. In the short time
since its inception the IHFF
48 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
has acquired an important
collection of historically
significant memorabilia which
it has made available on
temporary loan to a number
of different organisations for
public display together with
four vintage aircraft which it
displays across the country.
The two types of aircraft
displayed by the flight are 3 x
de Havilland Chipmunk’s (Irish
Air Corp markings 168, 169,
170) – (EI-HFA, EI-HFB, EI-HFC)
and a Boeing E75 Stearman
“Spirit of Tipperary” (EI-HFD),
making a fleet of four historic
classic aircraft.
The Chipmunk is a two –seat
tandem training aircraft used
to train civilian, military and
airline pilots and was first
used by the Irish Aer Corps in
1952. Boeing’s basic design
of the Stearman Model 75 is
a strong, rugged and reliable
biplane, also widely used
as a training aircraft. The
Stearman has great display
characteristics, whilst emitting
a very distinctive sound from
its radial engine.
In addition to maintaining
and flying these iconic aircraft
the IHFF is committed to
developing an “aviation
experience centre ” to allow
visitors to interact at close
quarters with the flight. As
part of this facility visitors will
be able to understand the
science of flight, engineering
and maintenance, whilst
engaging in personal stories
of people past and present in
Irish Aviation History
 The Stearman played its role as a primary trainer for the United
States Army during the 1930s and 1940s.
Most all US Pilots
during World War II
acquired their initial
flying skills in the robust
Boeing Stearman, more
affectionately known by
them as the Kaydet.
Constructed with a steel
frame, cotton fabric covering,
Canadian spruce wings and a
nine cylinder radial engine the
Boeing Stearman designed
by Lloyd Stearman and built
by the Boeing Company at
Wichita Kansas tells a story of
American entrepreneurship,
aeronautical innovation
and determination
which culminated in the
construction of over eight
thousand enduring aircraft.
The aircraft featured ‘EI-HFD’
was originally built in 1942 at
the Boeing Wichita Kansas
factory and was delivered to
Pensacola Florida where it
served as a primary trainer
to many thousands of US
Airmen during World War II.
After the war the airplane was
50 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
bought from the US Army by many pilots across the world
a United States Airforce pilot and the major contribution
who had trained on Stearman Tony Ryan and his family
and flown in Europe during played in placing Ireland
the closing years of the War. firmly at the centre of the
The aircraft and it’s pilot
leasing and the low cost
could be seen in Fresno
airline world with the launch
California performing in Air
and growth of both GPA and
shows during the 50s, 60s
and 70s. In 1981 the airplane Ryanair
was bought by an avid classic
aircraft collector who based it
in the UK and there it began
a new chapter in its history,
flying the UK Air show circuit.
On the 20th March 1999
Ryanair accepted delivery of
its first Boeing 737-800 series
aircraft and wanting to join
the past with the future, the For more information
founder of Ryanair, Tony Ryan go to www.
and his son Cathal acquired irishhistoricflight.com
or Follow Irish Historic
the aircraft and re-named
Flight Foundation on:
it ‘The Spirit of Tipperary’
Facebook:
and put it into the skies over
Irish.Historic.Flight/
Ireland.
Twitter:
The IHFF acquired the aircraft @FlightIrish
in 2016 in recognition of the Instagram:
role this truly iconic aircraft irishhistoricflight
played in the training of so .
The Chipmunk is a two-seat tandem training aircraft which was
used to train pilots in the Irish Air Corps. Powered by a Gipsy Major
10 MK 2 engine, it has a low-mounted wing and is fitted with a clear
Perspex canopy which covers both occupants.
While the aircraft is
primarily made of
metal, parts of the wing
are fabric covered. It
features a conventional
tailwheel landing gear
arrangement.
Initially flown in May 1946,
de Havilland went on to
produce almost 1,300 of the
type. Chipmunk 168 168 was
built as a Chipmunk T.MK.20
by The De Havilland Aircraft
Company Ltd, Broughton,
Chester, UK. It was delivered
new to the Irish Aer Corps
on 30th January 1952 and
registered as 168. The last
recorded flight of 168 for the
Irish Air Corps was piloted by
Comdt. Ralph James in July
1993 by which time it had
accumulated 4,500 flight
hours.
After 1993, the aircraft was put
into storage and it remained
untouched until it was
donated to the IHFF. 168 was
then converted to a Civilian
Mk 22 standard and registered
with the Irish Aviation
Authority as EI-HFA. Its first
flight on the Irish civil register
was in June 2015. Chipmunk
169 169 was originally UK’s
Royal Air Force WD.305
Chipmunk T.10, it flew over
4,500 Flight Hours with the
RAF before being converted in
1962 for civilian use and being
registered with the UK CAA as
G-ARGG. Since entering into
civilian use, G-ARGG flew for civilian use and went into
another 6,000 Flight Hours private ownership, where
with Air Navigation & Trading it remained until May 2015.
Co. Ltd, Blackpool. While being privately operated
In 1987, the aircraft transferred in the UK, it originally bore the
into private ownership and RAF paint scheme. In 2012,
the aircraft was re-covered in the aircraft was re-covered
ceconite fabric. G-ARGG was with ceconite material and
acquired by the IHFF in 2015 painted with the Irish Air
and assigned Irish registration Corps 170 markings. Upon
EI-HFB in May of that year. transfer to Irish Historic Flight
Chipmunk 170 170 was first Foundation, the aircraft was
flown in September 1952 and registered as EI-HFC. It now
flew over 6.500 hrs with the has flown over 8,500 hours.
UK’s Royal Air Force between
then and September 1975.
The aircraft was then
converted to an MK.22 for
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 51
 “The first time that I flew the Chipmunk T.22 was in 1975 with
the Air Corps CFI, the then Commandant Pat Cranfield, when he
brought me for a 45-minute familiarisation flight, which included
my first exposure to aerobatics.”
Having previously flown
about seven hours on
Iona’s fleet of Cessna 150s,
I found being trussed-up
in a parachute, helmet
and mask a very different
working environment. I was
immediately challenged by
the workings of the cartridge
starter (which I, in the front
cockpit, had to trigger) and
startled by the clouds of
acrid smoke that were blown
back by the propeller and
enveloped the cockpit.
The view forward was worse
than in the Cessna, with the
nose protruding well above
the horizon eye-line and
necessitating a lot of weaving
to ensure that the way ahead
was clear of obstacles and
other aircraft. The view for the
instructor from the rear seat,
which had a lower seating
position, was even worse!
The flying task got harder
52 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
during take-off when the
power was applied as the
nose swung first one way
with power and then the
other as the tail came off the
ground! Once in the air it was
necessary to change hands
on the control column to
retract the manually operated
flaps –nothing seemed to be
familiar or as easy as in the
Cessna. However, once in the
air the real difference became
immediately obvious.
The ailerons were crisp, the
elevators firm and responsive
and the rudder was light and
needed constant attention
in order to keep the aircraft
balanced. The view out and
about the aircraft was very
good, much better than that
from a high-wing aircraft.
This aircraft demanded to
be flown, but if flown well it
would reward the pilot with
accurate performance and
satisfying results. As a trainer
the Chipmunk posed a real
challenge to students in
the control and manoeuvre
phases of the flying training
course and placed a realistic
and quality demand on their
skills.
Any takeoff could degenerate
into a series of swings and
waltzes if the rudder wasn’t
closely co-ordinated with the
power and elevator inputs.
Landing it on a concrete
runway was like trying to land
a beachball. Aerobatics were
demanding to fly accurately
as the ailerons needed a
full-deflection push to get
it rolling fast enough to
get it around the roll, but
loops and rolloff- tops were
very satisfying with a very
challenging phase during the
slow-speed roll-out part of the
manoeuvre as a lot of aileron
was needed. Stall-turns as
always were attention-getters,
as the power needed to be
cut just at the right moment
as the yaw started to move the
nose off the vertical. Reduce
power too early and you were
in for a stomach-churning
hammerhead manoeuvre!
It flicked readily into spins if
tight turns were tightened too
much and once in the spin
it rotated rapidly—but always
recovered using standard spin
recovery techniques.
The spin strakes on the
rear fuselage ahead of the
rudder are witness to earlier
problems with spin recoveries
but which, thankfully, was not
an affliction that affected the
Air Corps fleet. “I still maintain
that if you can fly a Chipmunk
on instruments you could fly
anything on instruments.”
The magnetic compass was
mounted on the floor in front
of the control column and,
as regular compass checks
were required to keep the
directional gyro (DG) set
accurately, it was necessary
to lean forward in your seat,
line up the lubber lines with
the magnetic lines in the
armature itself and then read
Stearman Statistics
Roles Trainer
Crew 2 Crew
Engines 1 x Lycoming R-680 / Radial
Speed 135 mph
Range up to 500 miles
Length 24.9 ft
Wingspan 32.2 ft
Armament n/a
Payload n.a
and transfer the results to the
DG. All this while still retaining
control of the aircraft—or
nearly! Night-flying stages
were also a big challenge—
given the nose-high attitude
during the take-off and
landing phases— seemingly
setting the clock back to the
first days of the course when
the learning all began and
good landings were difficult
to achieve. In formation it was
an exhilarating challenge and
the crisp controls rewarded
effort and concentration. Not
quite in the red Arrows or
Silver Swallows speed range,
the Chipmunk got across the
basics of station-keeping and
changing and flying on the
leader’s reference points.
The results were most
impressive to behold when
a section or vic would return
to the circuit for a run and
break. There were some
other Chippie characteristics
that were not so endearing,
such as not having a cockpit
heater—I still recall the
piercing cold of night flying in
mid-November at 5000 feet
conducting a QGH (Homing
and Controlled Descent) to
De Havilland Chipmunk
Roles
Engines
Speed
Range
Length
Wingspan
Armament
Payload
Baldonnel. The Chipmunk
did have a ram-air intake
for cockpit cooling but alas
I never experienced the
necessary high temperatures
to warrant its use! I do recall
it leaking cold air into the
cockpit during flight and not
contributing to the comfort
levels at all, especially during
the winter months. Another
trial awaited the would-be
Chipmunk crew, also due to
the damp Irish weather. First
flights on Monday morning
were always marked by damp
starter cartridges that had
been left in the engine over
the weekend in the hangar.
These never fired but instead
burned slowly and gave
the unfortunate first crew
of the new week no engine
start, a cockpit full of smelly
smoke and a mandatory and
interminable three-minute
wait before having a second
attempt. This early morning
gassing seemed to make the
day a bit more wearisome
than any other in the week!
Trainer
2
1 x de Havilland Gipsy Major 1C
138 mph
280 miles
25.5 ft
34.4 ft
n/a
n.a
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 53
 ASL Airlines Looks Forward
with an Eye to the Past
ASL Airlines is right
at the leading edge
of technological
developments that
will lead us to the next
generation of flight.
Hydrogen, electric-
hybrid and sustainable
aviation fuel (SAF)
propulsion have all
moved from the drawing
board to the runway as
ASL looks to a future
of emissions free
flying, with the earliest
transformations set to
come from air cargo
operations.
As ASL looks forward, respect
for the past remains high
on the agenda. Today in
Bray and in other air shows
and fly-ins this year, the very
popular appearance of the
aircraft of the Irish Historical
Flight Foundation (IHFF) is
sponsored by ASL Airlines.
The ASL logo is now proudly
displayed on the venerable
and historic IHFF aircraft as
ASL Airlines partners with the
54 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
foundation to ensure that as
many people as possible see
their fantastic aircraft this year.
The current IHFF fleet consists
of three De Havilland DHC-1
Chipmunk aircraft flying in
Irish Air Corps colours and a
Boeing Stearman E75 biplane,
built in 1943 and operated
by the United States Navy.
Maintained meticulously by
the IHFF, these aircraft draw
the crowds wherever they go,
bring people back to an age
when flying was simpler, and
also perhaps more magical.
There were no issues with
carbon emissions when these
aircraft first took to the skies,
but that has all changed,
and global aviation is under
huge regulatory and moral
pressure to reduce emissions.
The accepted goal of net-
zero emissions will be a
difficult target to meet, but
the aviation industry is taking
its responsibilities here very
seriously.
ASL, Ireland’s global aviation
services provider, has four
European airlines; ASL
Airlines Ireland, ASL Airlines
Belgium, ASL Airlines United
Kingdom and ASL Airlines
France. All except the latter
are cargo carriers operating
for the world’s leading express
parcel companies and online
retailers. ASL Airlines France
also operates both scheduled
and charter passenger flights.
ASL also has associate and
joint venture cargo airlines
in Thailand and India and in
South Africa where FlySafair
is now the market leading
low-cost passenger carrier.
With the recently announced
acquisition of Australian cargo
and passenger airline Pionair,
the global ASL fleet now
stand at 160 aircraft, ranging
from the ‘Queen of the Skies’
Boeing 747, to Airbus A330,
Boeing 737’s and the new
ATR72-600 freighter.
Operating for the largest
express parcel and
e-commerce customers in
the world, it’s natural that ASL
wants to explore and develop
the technologies that will
lower and eventually eliminate
You may not have flown with us,
But your packages probably have!

Today it’s by van, and in the future it may be by drone, but home
delivery is the final part of the service provided by global express
parcel companies and online retailers.
Whatever European region you call home, you expect your package to
be delivered fast and on-time, and that’s where we come in.
With connections to 100 European airports every day, there’s a good
chance your package started its journey on ASL Airlines. It’s what we
do, and we fly for the best!

Connecting Europe. Connecting Business. Connecting People.

ASL Airlines Commitment. Integrity. Vision.

 emissions from flight. ASL Europe and every night commercial challenges it
CargoVision, a forum of 15 these aircraft serve over 100 is investing in its people, its
independent companies European airports. fleet and in new technologies.
involved in new technology The ASL fleet renewal But even with this eye on
development was born from programme is about mid- the future, ASL is mindful
this and there have already way through a five-year and respectful of the past,
been notable achievements. programme that is primarily and the pioneers who
Three ASL CargoVision seeing older B737-400 built the foundations for
member companies have Classic aircraft being replaced aviation in Ireland and
already completed their first by next-generation B737- throughout Europe. It’s
flights using new propulsion 800BCF’s, Boeing Converted no surprise therefore that
technologies hydrogen and Freighters. Across the global ASL’s commitment to zero-
electric batteries. There fleet, ASL now operates more
emissions flying is backed by
have also been successes B737-800NGs than it does
its commitment to aviation
in autonomous flights, and B737-400 Classics with 64
history.
these are areas where the first -800s versus the remaining 42
-400’s, and at the end of July ASL Airlines wishes the Bray
commercial services are likely
another 7 B737-800 BCF’s are Air Show well as it brings the
to be in the air cargo sector.
in conversion. best of aviation to Ireland’s
ASL Airlines itself has been
ASL Airlines is looking to skies, including the fabulous
busy with sustainable aviation
the future, and to meet aircraft of the Irish Historic
fuels and has operated
the environmental and Flight Foundation.
flights in cooperation with its
customers on their European
networks, using a blend of SAF
and standard jetfuel. This is a
critical innovation with 2030
just around the corner when
airlines will be mandated to
use a minimum of a 15% SAF
blend for cargo and passenger
flights.
As ASL says in one of its
adverts, you may not have
flown on their aircraft, but
your packages probably
have. The ASL fleet of B737
freighters is the largest in

56 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 Our customers are
happy when we put our
nose in their business

With services to more than 100 airports, we are committed to

connecting Europe on behalf of our customers, the world’s premier
express parcel integrators and online retailers.
It doesn’t end there. We also stick our big nose in right where it’s
needed to serve our global customers.
Our nose-loading B747-400s can take almost anything anywhere, so
you find our ‘Queen of the Skies’ aircraft all over the world, connecting
Europe with China, North America, South Africa and more.

Regional and Global – we connect Europe!

ASL Airlines Commitment. Integrity. Vision.

 Saab JS
SAAB Viggen
37 Viggen
– SE-DXN

JS 37 Viggen - SE-DXN
The Swedish Air Force roads, and have Fighter / Attack /
supersonic capabilities Roles
Historic Flight (SwAFHF) Reconnaissance
operate the exciting, at low level, plus Mach 2
Manufacturer SAAB
performance at altitude.
fast, and very noisy, Saab
It was also designed Height 16.2 meters
37 Viggen.
to be easy to repair Wingspan 10.6 meters 
The Viggen is a Swedish single- and service, to keep it
seat, single-engine, short- off the ground and in Height 5.60 meters
medium range combat aircraft,
service for as long as Empty weight 9500 kg
manufactured by Saab AB
possible. It can carry
between 1970 and 1990. The Maximum load 3600 kg
anti-ship missiles,
SwAFHF saved this particular
and the later versions Maximum
plane from destruction in the 20.500 kg
can accommodate takeoff weight
early 2000’s, and in March
2012, the aircraft was approved Sidewinder missiles on Action radius About 1000 km 
as airworthy by the Swedish the outer wings. We tare
Maximum
Transport Agency and the delighted to welcome Who knows 
height
Civil Registry. The aircraft was the SwAFHF and their
designed to operate on short Viggen back to Bray for Maximum
Mach 2 
runways, or specially prepared the third time. speed
Engine Volvo Aero RM8A
58 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

CHC Helicopter operates
the Sikorsky S-92 in
the Search and Rescue
(SAR) role on behalf of
the Irish Coast Guard
from four bases around
the country (Dublin,
Sligo, Shannon and
Waterford), today’s
aircraft is flying from
the CHC base at Dublin
Airport.
The S-92 is designed to meet
demanding performance
requirements with safety
and economy, it is the first
and only helicopter designed
to meet the latest FAA/JAA
Part 29 regulations, the S-92
is safe, reliable and truly in a
class of its own. For owners,
operators, flight crews and
maintainers, it offers state-of-
the art-technology backed by
the proud heritage of Sikorsky
Aircraft.
The general duties of the S-92
include offshore oil, search
and rescue, scheduled airline,
executive transport and
general utility missions.
Sikorsky S-92
Performance
The S-92 is a robust, and
proven high-performance
helicopter with an advanced
rotor system, and the 5000+
installed horse power of
twin General Electric CT7-8A
turboshaft engines. It carries
19 passengers in airliner
comfort 490 nm (907 km) or
searches for a full hour 275
nm (510 km) from base to
rescue six survivors and return
to base with 30 minutes of
reserve fuel. Certified at 26,150
lb. (11,861 kg) design gross
weight with internal loads
and 28,300 lb. (12,837kg) with
external sling loads, the S-92
has flown at weights to 31,000
lb. (14,065 kg) demonstrating
performance.
Safety
The new generation S-92 is
an eminently safe helicopter.
Robust structures with
redundant load paths provide
long component lives and
reliable operations. Owing to
the flaw tolerant design of the
S-92, dynamic components
and airframe keep flying
despite small, undetectable
manufacturing flaws or in-
service damage. Category A
(Class 1) performance margins
give S-92 pilots the choice
to keep flying, continue a
departure or return to an
elevated helipad with one
engine inoperative. Integrated
lightning, bird-strike, and
turbine burst protection
safeguard S-92 systems; and a
crashworthy fuel system and
structures protect lives in an
emergency.­
Maintenance
The new-generation S-92
is a uniquely economical
helicopter. With 80% fewer
maintenance tasks than other
helicopters and structures
and systems designed for
on-condition maintenance,
the S-92 has significantly
lower maintenance costs than
competing helicopters. The
onboard display of system
data enhances safety of flight.
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 59
 Royal Jordanian Falcons

The Royal Jordanian

Falcons is the national
aerobatic team of
Jordan. It was formed
in 1976 at the initiative
of His Majesty the Late
King Hussein Bin Talal.

It was His Majesty’s

intention to promote
the Jordanian Family,
peace, and friendship
to the rest of the world
through the art and
science of aviation.
Royal Jordanian Falcons
function as a highly
specialized asset for the
promotion of Jordan,
serving as the country’s”
roving ambassadors”.
is financially sponsored by
The team headquarters was
the Aqaba Development
transferred by Royal Decree
Corporation (ADC) and
to King Hussein International
logistically supported by both
Airport in Aqaba (Red Sea)
to enhance tourism and Royal Jordanian Airlines and
investment there. With the the Royal Jordanian Air Force.
continuous support of His The team started with 2 Pitts
Majesty King Abdullah II and Special-S2A aircraft. But after
under the supervision of His years of evolving, The Royal
Royal Highness Prince Feisal Jordanian Falcons now flies
Bin Al – Hussein, the honorary the Extra 330 LX aircraft in
president, the team continues 4-ship formation, one of the
to tour the world, exposing best aerobatic aircraft on the
the Jordanian Family to market, presenting a blend of
approximately 3 to 5 million formation and solo aerobatics.
people every year. The team The RJF visited Ireland in 2017,

60 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

2018, and 2019, and now returned to
IN RED IN BLUE
Ireland for spectacular and memorable
Rezik Haddad Riyad Ayyoub
displays in Bray, Casement, and Birr
Chief of Maintenance General Manager
Airshows this year.
Khaled Sakarneh Jamil Zayyad
Engineer Dir.of Ops/ leader.
Bassam Rahamneh Sharif Hatouq
Engineer Chief pilot/left-wing.
Thaer Al Shoufi Ahmad Rababah
Engineer Right-wing
Mohamed Malhas Doraid Al Lawama
Engineer Solo/slot
Amjad Zaater Feras Alhweitat
Engineer. Alternate Pilot.

Technical Data:
Manufacturing: The airframe is built of tig-
welded steel-tube construction. Wings, rudder
and landing gear are manufactured of composite
material. The aircraft is a two seater with the rear
seat instrumented for pilot in command. The
maximum “G” limits are +/- 10 Gs for aerobatic
flight
Dimensions: Length: 9.69m (22.83ft)
Height: 2.62m (8.60ft) Wing span: 8.00m (26.25 ft)
Engine: Manufacturer: Textron-Lycoming.
Type: Lycoming AEIO-540-L1B5
Rated Power: 300 HP@2700 RPM 270 HP@2400
RPM
Propeller: Manufacturer: MT-Propeller
Entwicklung GmbH,
Type: MTV-14-B-C/C 190-17 4-Bladed Propeller
Airspeed Limitations: VNE 220 knots

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 61

 Team Stearman

The Boeing Stearman

Model 75 or Kaydet
(as the type was also
known) is a two-seat
open cockpit biplane
that was introduced
by the Boeing Aircraft
Division of Wichita,
Kansas in 1934.
The Stearman was used
extensively through the
1930s and 40s and was 1946 number 27 was
an enormous success as a retired from military Boeing Stearman M 75
military trainer during World service and was bought
War II. At the end of the war by a young US military Classification Trainer
many Stearman aircraft were pilot who himself had
Span 32 feet 2 inches
sold into the civilian market. flown it during WWII, he
In the immediate post-war then went on to fly No. 27 Length 24 feet 3 inches
years they became popular in the American air show
as training aircraft, crop circuit for five decades. Gross weight 2,717 pounds
dusters and Air Show display More recently to mark
planes. Team Stearman’s Top speed 124 mph
its proud history No. 27
aircraft displaying today was Cruising
under the custodianship 106 mph
constructed by Boeing in speed
of Team Stearman has
1941 and was put into service
been meticulously Range 505 miles
with the United States Navy
in Pensacola Florida with restored to its former
Ceiling 11,200 feet
the US Military Aircraft Serial glory and is now based at
designation number 27. Most the Lyons Estate in Ireland 220-H.P.
of the US military pilots during from where it is proudly Continental R-670-
Power
WWII gained their flying wings flown and displayed at air 5 piston radial
on the Boeing Stearman. In shows across Europe. engine (PT-17)

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 63

 PBY-5A Catalina
Flying Boat
During the war the
aircraft hunted enemy
submarines, patrolling
day and night along
the coast of Western
Canada. Postwar it
was used briefly as a
freighter, before joining
a Search & Rescue flight
where it served until
finally being struck off
the military charge in
1961.
‘YA went onto the civilian register
and was converted to begin a
long career as a fire bomber,
fighting fires all over Canada
with seasonal work in Marseille,
France. In the 1990s the aircraft
was purchased for an African
safari flight project, and had
passenger seats installed, one
piece blisters (excellent for
viewing) and an airstair in the
rear.
The safari flying never got off
the ground, and ‘YA ended
up abandoned in a car park in
Nanaimo. It was here that Plane
Sailing located the airframe and,
after a long search worldwide,
64 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
decided that ‘YA was the most
suitable candidate for restoration
and refurbishment. The crew
spent over a year fixing up the
Cat before embarking on the
month long transit flight back to
Duxford, going all the way down
the Western coast of the USA,
across and back up the Eastern
seaboard into Canada. The
lengthy route allowed them to be
sure the aircraft was working well
before crossing the Atlantic.
The ferry flight across the
Atlantic lasted over 18 hours
with temperatures of minus 26,
but finally in March 2004, ‘YA
arrived at her new home base
of Duxford. Miss Pick Up Nose
Art In 2005 ‘YA said goodbye
to the yellow, green and red
firebombing scheme that had
earned her the nickname ‘rasta
cat’! After much research, the
historical livery of a USAAF
OA-10A of the 5th Emergency
Rescue Squadron aircraft was
decided upon – this particular
aircraft had operated from
Halesworth, Suffolk, and is
commemorated at Duxford on
the glass memorial outside the
American Air Museum. Plane
Sailing was aware that the
paints scheme of ‘915 once had
nose art, but did not have any
photographic evidence to allow
them to recreate it. In 2011, two
sets of wartime photos came
to light, from different sources,
within a week of each other! This
tremendous coincidence allowed
them to research and recreate
Miss Pick Up and put her back
on the hull where she belongs.
The original Miss Pick Up was
painted on to the airframe at
Keesler Field Air Sea Rescue
School, Mississippi, in 1944 by
crew members of ‘915, before
they made the long transit to
their new base at Halesworth.
Apparently she ‘really drew a
crowd wherever she went’. The
artwork was closely based on
Miss Lace, an extremely popular
and voluptuous character from
the pen of American wartime
cartoonist Milton Caniff.
Our modern Miss Pick Up has
been faithfully recreated by
talented aviation photographer,
historian and artist, John
Dibbs. John spent many hours
perfecting a digital version, so
that she could be printed onto
Wishing everyone a fantastic day!

Actavo is very proud to supply Event Infrastructure for

The Bray Air Display 2023

Actavo Events
(01) 505 5888
events.irl@actavo.com
www.actavo.com/events
 vinyl stickers and applied to the
hull. Our long term aim is for
John to paint Miss Pick Up onto
the airframe, just as would have
been done in the war years. The
Demise of 44-33915 Arriving
at Halesworth in late 1944,
‘915 Miss Pick Up launched
straight into the daily business
of rescuing downed airmen from
save both them and the Mustang Great Yarmouth on April 5,
the English channel and North
pilot, involving more than 175 with all except the captain
Sea. On March 30, her crew
aircraft. An experimental Higgin’s suffering frostbite, but otherwise
were sent to the aid of a young
Airborne Lifeboat was dropped unharmed.
Mustang pilot whose engine had
to them on the third day of The Mustang pilot was also
seized, leaving him floating in
their ordeal. It was the very first fortunate – when he realised
a dinghy only 8 miles from the
occupied coastline. operational drop of Higgin’s the Catalina was unable to
craft, from an experimental B17 rescue him, he settled back in
Ignoring the rough seas, they of their own Squadron, and it his dinghy and went to sleep.
attempted to land but damaged proved extremely successful. He awoke the next morning on
their engines. Unable to take off The stranded men credited a muddy Frisian Island beach
or manoeuvre to the stranded Higgin’s boat with saving their and handed himself into the
Mustang pilot, they waited for lives, and it went on to save authorities at a nearby factory.
rescue. The following day the many more. He became a POW, but the rapid
drifting flying boat was shot
The terrible storm prevented end of the war meant he was
up by 2 Me262s - the Catalina
any seaborne rescue until back at his home base within 3
began to sink and the six
day 6 when the sea calmed months!
crewmen took to their dinghies.
They were to spend the next 5 enough to allow 2 Royal Naval These brave young Americans
days alone at sea, in freezing Rescue Motor Launches to were truly some of the unsung
temperatures, exposed and leave the harbour and make heroes of WWII, risking life and
alone, enduring the worst North the dangerous journey to the limb on a daily basis to rescue
Sea storm of the year. A massive men’s location. They were finally others. They were incredibly
rescue effort was launched to returned to safety, reaching lucky to survive their experience.

66 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 67
 Emerald Airlines
The ATR72-600
forms the backbone
of Emerald Airlines
growing fleet. The ATR
72 turboprop equipped
aircraft is regarded as
the go-to model for
short-haul flights due
to its short take-off and
landing capabilities.
With improved fuel efficiency
and reduced CO2 emissions,
the ATR 72 stands out as a
low-emission eco-friendly
airplane. The ATR 72 600
model uses the latest assisted-
navigation technology and
offers the highest standards
of comfort. It features five
cockpit LCD digital displays
for better control and
in-flight safety, slimmer
seat design to maximise
passenger space and larger
baggage compartments. The
environmental footprint of an
ATR 72-600 versus a similar-
sized jet aircraft is 4,000
Tonnes less CO2 per aircraft
per year. This aircraft has a
significant environmental
advantage over regional
68 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
jets and other turboprop along with commuter services
aircraft emitting 40% less between Ireland and the U.K.
CO2 on short, regional flights. Emerald Airlines is currently
Emerald Airlines’ ATR 72-600 operating Aer Lingus Regional
is configured with 72 new- flights from Dublin Airport
generation seats, all-economy,
and Belfast City Airport, flying
in a 2-2 layout. Emerald
over 430 flights per week
Airlines is Ireland’s newest
on 18 routes from 14 airports
regional airline and exclusive
including Bristol, Birmingham,
operator of the Aer Lingus
Regional route network and Exeter, Edinburgh, Newcastle,
uses the ATR72-600 on routes Isle of Man and Newquay
domestically within Ireland among others.
ATR 72-600 STATISTICS
Engines Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127M
Take-off power 2,160 SHP
Take-off power 1 engine 2,400 SHP
Max continuous 2,400 SHP
Max climb 2,160 SHP
Max cruise 2,132 SHP
Max fuel load 5,000 kg - 11,023 lb
Optimum climb speed 170 KCAS
Rate of climb (ISA, SL, MTOW) 1,355 ft/min
Max Cruise speed
(95% MTOW-ISA-Opt FL) 275 KTAS-510
km/h
Fuel flow cruise speed 762 kg/h - 1,680 lb/h
Range with max pax (70 seats) 825 Nm
 As an aviation training specialist, Simtech
Aviation offers a wide variety of EASA and CAA
Approved pilot and cadet training Courses.
Based in an award winning training facility near
Dublin Airport, Simtech Aviation provides a
Variety of training for airlines and cadets,
including ATR 600 Type Ratings to Emerald
Airlines, Ireland’s newest regional airline, as they
continue to expand their fleet across
the country and into the UK.
 Aer Lingus
The Airbus A320neo is
the newest member of
the Aer Lingus short-
haul fleet.
The aircraft is powered by
CFM International’s LEAP-1A,
which provide outstanding
operational, economic, and
environmental performance.
Also included on the A320neo
are Airbus’ Sharklets, the
2.4-metre-tall wingtip devices
provide a 4% reduced fuel
burn over longer sectors
Overall, the A320neo delivers
up to 20% fuel savings and
CO2 reduction compared to
previous-generation aircraft.
The A320neo aircraft features
fly-by-wire technology, which
use computers to process
the flight control inputs
made by the pilot/ autopilot,
by sending corresponding
electrical signals to the flight
control surface actuators.
This technology replaces
direct mechanical linkage
such as cables, pulleys and
rods. Fly-by-wire technology
improves safety, reliability
and aircraft maneuverability.
70 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
The technology was first
developed on military aircraft
and Concorde, with the
technology fitted on all Airbus
aircraft and on most modern
aircraft, such as the Boeing
777 and 787.
Aer Lingus’ A320neo is
configured with 186 seats
in a 3-3 layout. The newest
aircraft feature the Airbus
Airspace Cabin which has
the widest single-aisle cabin,
Airbus A320neo (320-251N)
Max Take-off Weight (MTOW)
Max Landing Weight (MLW)
Max Usable Fuel Load
Max Operating Limit Speed (Vmo/
Mmo)
Max Flight Level
Max Range
Max Passengers
Aircraft Length
Wingspan
new ergonomic sidewalls with
integrated window shades to
maximise visibility and extra-
large overhead stowage bins,
which will increase stowage
by 60%.
Aer Lingus utilise the A320neo
on high demand European
short-haul routes, where it
frequently operates on flights
between Dublin and London.
73500 kg
67400 kg
23724 litres/ 18622 kg
VMO: 350 kt IAS/ MMO:
0.82 M
FL 390
6 300 km
186
37.6 m/ 123 ft
35.8 m/ 118 ft
 P51 Miss Helen

Miss Helen is a genuine

World War 2 surviving
aircraft, and fully
restored airworthy
example of this very
famous fighter.
The North American Aviation
P- 51 Mustang is an American
long-range, single-seat
fighter and fighter-bomber
used during World War II,
the Korean War and other
conflicts. This very aircraft flew
on combat operations with
the 352nd fighter group The
352nd Fighter Group – was
popularly known during WW2
as “The Blue Nosed Bastards of airshows in the UK. All the John in the summer of 1989
Bodney” and were one of the other blue nose Mustangs when it was painted in an all
most famous and successful that are airworthy around over green and white scheme
8th Air Force Fighter Groups the world are not genuine coded AJ-L with the nose art
based in East Anglia. What 352nd machines (however of “Miss L”.In 2014 Miss Helen
is less well known is that accurate and authentic their was sold to its new owner
there is currently known to restorations have been) and Robert Tyrrell from Steventon
be only a single genuine are only representative of the near Abingdon. The aircraft is
survivor of nearly 500 P47, 352nd FG. We can therefore maintained by the Duxford
and P51 fighters that the take a closer look at “Miss
based Aircraft Restoration
352nd operated during Helen” as this aircraft is
Co. and can be seen regularly
WW2. This particular P51D therefore arguably one of the
flying from there or from the
Mustang G-BIXL 44-472216 most historically significant
owner’s airstrip at Steventon.
“Miss Helen” is still airworthy, Mustangs in existence today.
www.misshelenp51.co.uk
is owned by Robert Tyrell Miss Helen was flown in the
and regularly flown at Memphis Belle film by Pete Image credit: Richard Paver

72 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

 Team Raven – Formation
Aerobatic Display Team
Team Raven formed
in 2014 as a 5-ship
formation aerobatic
display team from the
dissolution of Team
Osprey (Yak 52s) & Team
Viper (Strikemasters &
Hunters).
The original team flew with a
Van’s RV4 as leader & 4 x Van’s
RV8s as wingmen until 2018
when the Team adopted an
all RV8 line-up. Over the last
8 seasons the Team has gone
through a period as a 6-ship
display, back to a 5-ship &
now for 2022, we are aiming
to put on show a 6-ship once
again. The last 9 months has
seen some pilot changes &
after working up 2 new pilots
(Pete Wells & Russ Eatwell)
to fly in the Team, a recent
illness of an original member
has meant the recruitment
of a replacement who comes
in the form of Chris Heames.
The pilot biographies speak
for themselves in terms of
the vast experience of the
Team as a whole. The routine
changes little this year from
the sequence of 2019, albeit
the addition of a 6th aircraft
adds another element to our
74 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
display. The display is a mix of
formation aerobatics involving
elements of 6, 4, 3 & 2 aircraft
as well as some opposition &
tailchase-type manoeuvres,
aiming to keep elements
of the formation in front of
the crowd at all times in a
well-timid & at times, balletic
routine. After a very quiet
2020 & a reasonably quiet
2021, in this our 9th season,
we are once again aiming to
display throughout the UK &
wider afield in Europe & we
cannot wait! 2022 also sees
the Team adopting a new
livery which has at pride of
place on the nose, the logo of
our MT Propeller sponsor.
Pilot Biographies
Raven 1 – Simon “Sid”
Shirley
Sid, now in his 9th season as a
display pilot, is a former RAF
fast jet pilot with around
5,500 hours flying time having
done multiple tours on the
Tornado F3 (flying missions
over the Balkans in 1995)
as well as QFI tours on the
Hawk, the Grob Tutor in the
University Air Squadron &
Elementary Flying Training
roles & on the Grob 120TP
Prefect.  He now serves as
a full-time Reservist QFI &
AEF Flight Commander on
the Universities of Wales Air
Squadron at St Athan flying
the Grob Tutor once more.  He
joined the RAF straight from
school (he is NOT academic!),
could fly jets before he could
drive & was a front-line F3 pilot
at 22, although by current
Raven Team member’s
standards he is a ‘late starter’
having only gone first solo at
17. Unlike the other ex-military
pilots in the Team, Sid was too
slow when it came to dodging
ground tours & has served as
Staff in HQ Air Command &
in Kabul Afghanistan. 2003
saw an invitation from Chris
Heames to instruct on the Yak
52 formation school at North
Weald where he went on to
meet some of the current
members of the Team. The
opportunity to display is a
dream-come-true for him. A
keen motorcyclist, Sid has
been known to tour Europe
(mainly the Pyrenees) with
other bikers & is also a
passionate skier.  He lives in
Cardiff & when not teaching
University Air Squadron
students to fly or displaying
with the Team, he enjoys
travelling, cooking (never
trust a thin chef!) & amateur
astronomy.  he was the first to perform
Raven 2 – Pete Wells
Pete has been flying all his
life and is a self-confessed air
junkie having amassed over
6000 hours, all of which on
tail-draggers. He went solo
on his 16th birthday in a glider
& retains a keen interest
in gliding. After trying for
selection as an RAF pilot,
Pete specialised as an aircraft
engineer & he now owns &
is Director of Zulu Glasstek
Ltd, a composite aircraft
maintenance/sales company
based in Oxfordshire. He
started power flying as a glider
tow plane pilot on Piper Cubs
& Pawnees after which he
progressed onto aerobatic
types amassing hrs in RV8,
Sbach XA42, Cap 10 & the
RF4D amongst others. He
built one of the first ever
RV8s in the UK in 2002 but
sadly could not get it back
to fly in the team so he has
acquired another. He built
a Silence Twister aircraft &
started a solo display act
2007 which progressed into
the Twister Duo; a Team he
led for 10 years displaying
all over the world. In 2009
an aircraft pyro display in
the UK & he went on to lead
the first team to perform pyro
displays, which he has done
in most of Europe, China, the
UAE & Bahrain. His interests
include motorcycling; he has
ridden a monkey bike (small
motorcycle) 1000km across
the Andes into the rainforests
of Peru, & again a similar trip
from the Sahara to Marrakech
across the Atlas mountains!
Pete is very happy to join
Team Raven in 2022 which he
did on the premise he didn’t
have to lead - he feels he has
done plenty of that!
Raven 3 – Russ Eatwell
With a career in aviation
spanning 38 years & 15,000
hours on 70 different types
of aircraft & helicopters, Russ
is making a return to the
display arena this season
after a break of 8 years. His
passion for aviation was
seeded at the age of 11 when
his father taught him to fly
gliders. He soloed at the age
of 16, gaining a flying licence
18 months before his driving
licence. Joining the Royal
Navy’s Fleet Air Arm straight
from school, Russ went on
to fly Sea King Helicopters in
the Anti-Submarine & Search
& Rescue roles before being
selected to fly Fast Jets. After
re-training onto the Sea
Harrier, he joined 800 Naval
Air Squadron in 1993, just as
the Balkan crisis flared up.
Leaving the front line with
67 combat missions under
his belt, he instructed on the
Hawk & Sea Harrier before
taking up his final flying role
in uniform as the Boss of
the Royal Navy’s Fixed Wing
Standards Organisation. Russ
displayed the Sea Harrier for
2 years, then the Swordfish
& Sea Hawk for the Navy’s
Historic Flight as well as the
Rolls-Royce Spitfire Mk 19 at
air shows throughout the UK
& Europe. He became the
Chief Pilot of what is now
Spitfires.com in 2010 flying
the TR9 Spitfire, G-ILDA. A
career change to airline pilot
flying for Monarch, Etihad &
Emirates on Airbus A320 &
A380 respectively, meant a
temporary hiatus for display
flying & he returned to the
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 75
 UK in 2020 after widespread
redundancies in the Airlines.
Russ has now returned to his
military roots & is once again
training the next generation
of Naval & RAF fighter pilots at
RAF Valley on the Hawk T2.
Raven 4 – Gerald
Williams
Gerald, originally a
professional rugby player in
Wales, New Zealand & South
Africa is now a successful
businessman in the Swansea
area.  A keen PPL pilot for 25
years with more than 2000
hours he is arguably one of
the most experienced military
jet pilots on the civilian scene
having flown (& owned) many
ex-military jets including (but
not limited to) L29, L39, Jet
Provost, Strikemaster, Vampire,
Venom & Hunter T7 and FGA9.  an experienced display pilot,
Gerald is also an experienced
piston fixed wing pilot &
helicopter pilot having owned
a couple of Yak 52s & a Wasp.  JPs, Strikemasters, Hunters
A very experienced display
pilot, he has displayed all of
his ex-military jets & the Wasp,
the former with Team Viper.  back approach to all he does.
He Also displayed with a Yak
52 team in South Africa.
With unquenchable
enthusiasm & drive, Gerald is
the fuel to the momentum of
the Team & with his extensive
networking links in the
display arena is the Team’s
76 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
display schedule organiser
& communications into the
Team.  In his precious little
spare time Gerald enjoys
spending time with his 2
teen-age children, including
supporting his son in his own
rugby career and he remains
an avid fan regularly watching
the game.   Another natural
wit he is always at the centre
of any social event & is the
archetypal life and soul of the
party.
Raven 5 – Mark Southern
Mark by trade is an airline pilot
with significant experience
over the last 30 years on both
Boeing & Airbus ranges of
aircraft & is an ex-RAF fast
jet pilot having flown the
Tornado GR1 & the Jet Provost
in the instructional role.  Also
all of Mark’s previous display
experience has been on ex-
military jets having owned &
displayed his own Hunter GA11
with Team Viper with Gerald
& Chris. Mark, being from the
North has a naturally laid-
However, this relaxed attitude
is actually a veneer for a
wealth of aviation knowledge
and a quick, dry wit.  Mark
lives outside Manchester &
in his spare time enjoys high
speed downhill skiing & house
building; the latter being a
skill he practices in order to
stay grounded with ‘earthy’
people.
Raven 6 – Chris Heames
Chris is a prolific aviator having
been first solo in gliders at
the age of 16. Since then, he
has barely set foot out of an
aircraft having been an RAF
fast jet pilot on Lightnings,
Phantoms, Tornado GR1 &
F3 as well as an instructor
on Tucano & Tornado GR1,
finally ending his RAF flying
career as the Chief Instructor
at the RAF’s gliding school
- & despite all of his time on
cold war RAF aircraft, he only
ejected once! Out-with his
RAF flying, Chris has been
ever-present in aviation in
other avenues, most notably
in display flying wherein he
has been displaying nigh-
on continuously since 1996
on aircraft such as Yak 50s,
& Gnats; indeed, he was the
Team leader for Team Viper
with Gerald & Mark.
Recently he has become a
Team member of the Global
Stars which he still flies for
in the Extra 300. He has
stepped up at (very) short
notice to cover a shortfall due
to illness in the Team. In his
(limited) spare time, Chris is
an avid bridge player
RENATUS IS A PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM HELPING
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VISIT RENATUS.IE TO SPEAK WITH OUR TEAM

OF PROVEN INVESTMENT PROFESSIONALS
78 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 79
 AeroSuperBatics
Welcome to the AeroSuperBatics
wingwalking display 2023!!
The Team has been a major feature on the
worldwide display circuit since 1987 and is the
80 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023
only Formation Wingwalking Display Team in
the world.
2023 sees the Team aircraft sporting new
colours!
The wingwalkers always get excited about
coming to display in Ireland, such a beautiful
country and they love meeting all the friendly
people.
The aircraft roar in to display at 1000 ft, the first
move being a dive to 150mph for a formation
loop.
Watch as the girls perform different gymnastic
moves on the top wing, in perfect formation.
Then the aircraft split on the B Break!
This is followed by a sequence of breathtaking
opposition passes.
Towards the end of the display, the wingwalkers
unstrap from the wingwalking rig and climb
around the aircraft.
Wave to the girls on the wing, they can see you
waving!
Hear the roar of the powerful 450hp radial
engines, and see the environmentally friendly
smoke make wonderful trails in the sky!
At the end of the show the wingwalkers climb
back down into the front cockpit to wave
goodbye!
 Executive
Helicopters

Executive Helicopters a complete Turnkey operation National ESB powerline

entered the Irish
aviation market in
1998, The company was
established by Capt
Chris Shiel, a Galway
native.
A recently qualified flight
instructor he initially started
with a single passenger
Robinson R22 helicopter
operating out of a Portacabin
in Oranmore, co. Galway
he began steadily building
the business. A very much a
hands-on situation based on
drive and determination.
When the economic boom
of the early to mid-2000’s
hit, a market opened for
those who wished not
only to learn to fly but to
buy their own helicopters,
have them maintained
and hangered. At this time
Executive Helicopters were
a register training facility
(RTF), an authorised Robinson
Helicopter distributor and
a European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) part 145
maintenance facility, therefore
was possible. Ireland was
reputed to have the highest
ratio of helicopters per head in
Europe during this period!
From there the company
continued to branch out,
investing in 4 passenger
Eurocopter EC120’s, a 5
passenger twin engine
AS335N and more recently
an 8 passenger AS365N2
Dauphin, as well as highly
specialist equipment, HD
Filming, Infra Red and
Thermal Imaging cameras,
Aerial Fertilising and
Firefighting Bambi buckets.
The company won the
contract, the National Gas
Pipeline patrol, as well as
firefighting and fertilizing
services for Coilte and private
individuals. Aerial filming
also another strong specialty
for large screen films, prime
example being listed on the
credits for the recent Star
Wars films.
The company continues to see
phenomenal growth, most
notably in the niche high-end
luxury sector with business
continuously growing year
on year. The high standard of
service, quality of Pilots and
level of aircraft has seen a

82 THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY | 2023

strong loyal repeat client base which is
now also expanding to Heli Golfing in
Scotland.
The company has won numerous
awards such as the 2018 & 2017 Winner
Luxury Tour Guide European Awards,
“Republic of Ireland Aviation Company
of the Year 2018”, “Best Helicopter
Company Republic of Ireland – Air
Transport Awards 2018” and also listed
in Ireland the Best, the insider’s guide to
Ireland, published by Collins Summing
up the company’s future and Approach,
Executive Helicopters will continue to
explore new opportunities with the
same drive and entrepreneurial gusto,
the Sky is literally the limit!

2023 | THE BRAY AIR DISPLAY 83

 Ireland’s Only Dedicated
Executive Airport

Opened May 2023 ▶ Newly Refurbished Terminal

120-Seater Fully Licenced Restaurant ▶ Enhanced Security Screening
Scenic Runway Views ▶ Exclusive Executive Lounge
Opening September 2023 ▶ Pilots Lounge
Ground Floor Café ▶ Pilot Planning Pods

www.westonairport.com
info@westonairport.com