My father states that at a Biggin Airshow in the 60's a Rallye took off across the runway as part of the display... not that I disbelieve him as I've seen some shortish T/O's but would love to have seen it. Can anyone confirm this or even have a picture of it??
I cant actually remember that happening but it would never have suprised me. The SOCATA test pilot of that time (Maurice something or other...Seree I think) used to display the 220hp Rallye Minerva at Biggin Air Fairs. The routine would be aerobatic including very tight loops. Then end by stopping the prop and dead-sticking it onto the runway like a falling leaf.