Vulcan Update - from Flypast May 2007 Edition (Yes I mean May!)
Within her Hangar at Bruntingthorpe, Leics, work to bring Vulcan XH558 back to life continues to quicken as the first flight date gets closer. Engineering Manager Andrew Edmonson gave Flypast a brief outline of the activity as of March 19.
Both the oxygen and fire bottle sdystems were going back in. Rewiring of the undercarriage bays was complete. New wiring for the avionics was being laid out, ready for installation.
Work on the cockpit was well in hand. The cockpit floor was planned to be re-installed in the week beginning March 26. Beyond that, new flight consoles currently being completed would be able to go in.
The corrosion problems found in the main undercarriage bays are being conquered rapidly, with a dozen staff deployed to this area. The engines are due to be fitted in mid-April.
Ground crew and aircrew training are in full swing. By the time these words are read, the aircrew will have staged their first sessions using XM655 at Wellesbourne Mountford, Warwickshire, for live procedures simulation and taxi training.
Due to a good response, the Vulcan Visitor Scheme has been extended by another month. Progress can be viewed on Sundays 10am to 4pm or prior arrangement. (Tel 0116 2479932, e-mail Denis Parker at
[email protected]/www.tvoc.co.uk)