It is with deep regret that yes the politics have ruled over common sense. Snoopy will cease flying for the Met Office at the end of this FY. We have tried hard to save her, but have been over ruled by political considerations. I think the universities are how ever in for a rude shock. They have been prommised an all singing all dancing aircraft. The limitations of the flight envelope are just begining to sink home. What you mean we can not fly at FL350 for 5 hours with a full pay load!
And when we deploy over seas, all the support carg goes by road, or we hire in a Hercules!
I understand Snoopy will stay her present home for the near future, where DERA will use her as part of their air fleet.