Baffling. The aircraft is supposed to be as near as possible to flight state.
Why is it baffling ? People who know how to swing an aircraft have told you how it's done. Nimrod swing done on compass base, towed around using specially adapted tug with bar to also pull Houchin. All systems were powered up. Engines spinning, engines stopped, still large chunks of metal. If you were really unlucky, you even had a Nav turn up.
Your average RAF compass base is not really suitable for taxiing your average large jet.
May I be so bold as to say, if we are to witness more of these - the best way of showing your appreciation is to visit the homepage of TVOC (available to view by all) and hitting the e-donate system with whatever you feel is appropriate. See www.tvoc.co.uk
Many congratulations to all those involved from the supporters, engineers and crew - even the detractors. They only strive to push on the desire of many to realise the dream.
Doh! missed the 1000th reply.
Anyway, many congratulations and thanks to all those involved.
Just a throught, will this months rent at Bruntingthorpe be 2 nights cheaper and will Cottesmore's landing fee's take care of any cash back from Mr. Walton?
People who know how to swing an aircraft have told you how it's done.
You're quite right - (and hot dinners come to mind). They’d be people like the Kiwi CAA whose airlines pioneered pre INS/GPS trans Pacific flights. Dragging an aircraft around a surveyed compass base with a tug, tow bar, and running Houchin is ludicrous.
Quote:
Your average RAF compass base is not really suitable for taxiing your average large jet.
A triumph of convenience over common sense. If you can tow it you can taxi it. Not that any of this matters to 558.
Well, for all of you doubters and that the Vulcan swing method was 'ludicrous', may I point out that the Vulcan Force achieved exceptional navigational and bombing accuracy against the USAF in the annual bombing competitions [Giant Voice]?
You don't get those high levels of success with a dodgy compass system.
I remember a Vulcan coming straight to Bitteswell from the bombing contest for maintenance. After it was jacked up we set about opening up all the fuel tanks only to be hypnotised by JP4, phew, that fuel had a smell all of it's own!!
Has anyone managed to get an idea of take-off time tomorrow yet? My boss was very good about me leaving work at the drop of a hat yesterday, but I'd rather play it safe tomorrow to see the take off!
I'll echo Sarah's thoughts, does anyone have any decent info on timings (as well as take off direction and if there's going to be a circuit)? I was in Melton this morning, and I delighted in listening to 2 old boys chuckling about it. Shame that there's not wider publicity though, it'd be nice to see her slow traffic on the A1 again.
Well, for all of you doubters and that the Vulcan swing method was 'ludicrous', may I point out that the Vulcan Force achieved exceptional navigational and bombing accuracy against the USAF in the annual bombing competitions [Giant Voice]?
Quite right, but Giant Voice aircraft, as with crews, were 'hand picked' over a lengthy period prior to the competition. During that time the Nav Plots produced their own correction cards - in the air. Change any compass component and the aircraft slipped back down the list.
Anyway, the FAA says
b. Precautions. (2) Personnel engaged in the compensation of the compass shall remove all magnetic or ferrous material from their possession.
I have been advised ETD 12.00. A lot of media coverage is expected.
I'm not sitting in front of the PC tomorrow, I'm popping out for some fresh air and a 266 mile round journey.
A guy on another forum who works at the base says they were told 11.00am.
I would imagine though, thats the earliest it would depart, and wouldn't be surprised if it went later.
I suppose the best bet is to get there early and wait.
Location: Quite near 'An aerodrome somewhere in England'
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It was indeed a spurious AAPP fire indication, the cause of which has been established. The aircraft has had a Rover wash and was fired up today - all was fine.
So, a quick romp around the compass base (nothing like the old MFS/HRS swings as the aircraft now has a much simpler system to befit the VFR-only role under which flights will be conducted), then a trip back to Bruntingthorpe tomorrow.
Looking forward to seeing more piccies as good as Al R's - simply stunning, those were!
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