Also, at the moment XH558 draws the crowds. It is “new” on the airshow scene. Realistically, even if the running costs are found, it will not be quite such a draw in 5 years time. Maybe somebody will have found a way to get, say, a Lightning authorized to fly in the UK by then. That will be the new kid on the block and XH558 will be old hat. I suspect this is the view that would be taken by some potential donors. The project does not leave a legacy for their money.
Can't agree with that comment. When the Vulcan was still in service and was very common on the airshow circuit it was never considered uninteresting and "old hat". It was always stunning. The Sea Vixen has been back on the display circuit for a few years and still impresses most people at shows. If the display is good and impressive it will always work!