100th Anniversary of the 1919 Air Race

[Dick Smith]

I've been talking to famous adventurer and aviator, Lang Kidby in relation to an idea of mine regarding commemorating the 1919 race. I could even be talked into coming up with sponsorship or prize money towards this.

My initial suggestion was that we open it up for Australian pilots and others of the British Empire - as it was in 1919.

To bring it up to date we could limit it to electrically powered aircraft that can be charged each night by any way possible.

After discussing with Lang, we realised there will have to be substantial improvements in batteries and technology in the next 3 years to make that possible.

Does anyone have any other suggestions on how we can have a worthwhile commemoration of that 100th Anniversary?

[dhavillandpilot]

The most obvious would be to get Lang to fly the replica over the route again.

Failing that another race similar to the several 1934 1954 1969 etc ones. But with one difference NO GPS, map and compass only.

The idea of battery power is great but even with the new Tesla type batteries is probably not possible within the short time ie 3 years.

If you do go down the Air Race route you can count me in as a starter, having done this route twice.

[Ultralights]

Will it be held in Australia? or a race from England to Oz? i cant imagine many electric aircraft being capable of that feat within 3 years,

But a local Around Oz might work, obviously experimental aircraft only?

[Lead Balloon]

A genuinely great idea, Dick. Encouraging the development and participation of electric aircraft with the carrying capacity, endurance and robustness to cover that route would be a very real contribution to technological advancement.

My selfish request is that consideration also be given to participation by pilots of old, oil burning technology in - e.g. a mini race from e.g. Darwin to Melbourne along the same route being flown by the electric aircraft. Maybe the entry requirement for that 'mini race' could be e.g. payment of a sponsorship of at least a specified amount to one of the electric aircraft teams, or into a pool from which the prize money for the winner/place getters of the electric aircraft racers would be paid?

[Dick Smith]

My plan was England to Australia in less than 30 days . Just like the original

I reckon it could be possible with electric power in a year or two- hope so.

Need to average about 350 mn per day.

[Ultralights]

hmmm, rubbing chin thinking about my savvy, 110Ltrs = 70Kg, remove the 912, save a few Kg there replacing it with a 80 to 100 hp electric motor... 70kg of batteries... add a few Kg for titanium lining the battery mountings areas in the wings...

[Stanwell]

Gee, that bears some serious thought, Dick.
I had hoped that Lang Kidby could bring the Vimy replica down for the occasion - but a race for electric aircraft - over that route?
That's a whole new ball-game. Bring it on!

It might be remembered, though, that one third of the competitors suffered fatal crashes largely because of technology limitations.
An electric aircraft durability trial in 2019 would be a worthy parallel (hopefully avoiding incidents).

Now, I wonder if the AWM would lend me McIntosh & Parer's DH9 for the event? :eek:

[Dick Smith]

I think Steve Fosset donated the Vimy to the Smithsonian.

[Lead Balloon]

Even if some of the cutting edge electric designs won't make the distance, the technology and infrastructure available to render assistance if something goes wrong is very different than in 1919. But that's all just part of the risk management processes that are now a normal part of participating in these kinds of adventures.

It's a great idea, Dick.

[bradleygolding]

Wow Dick what a great idea,

In the spirit of the original, although I suspect at substantial cost.

Steve.

[Union Jack]

Does anyone have any other suggestions on how we can have a worthwhile commemoration of that 100th Anniversary? - DS

Yes, if I may drop in - don't forget to ask Tracey Curtis-Taylor to take part.:rolleyes:

Jack

[asdf84000]

If you can't do electric, how about unmanned?

[gerry111]

"If you can't do electric, how about unmanned?"

Some of the radio controlled aeromodellers manage to do both. And their aircraft scale is rapidly approaching 1 to 1. :eek:

[no_one]

Awesome idea!!!!!

I think it would be great for the challenge to be pushing the boundaries of technology and not just an adventure using existing technology.

I think that with some concerted effort the electric idea is not too far from possible, after all an electric aircraft has broke 200MPH back in 2012. Home | Flight of the Century (http://www.flightofthecentury.com/) There is a risk that within the next 3 years the technology may develop to the point that completing the challenge is trivial...

One real challenge for a competitor will be to get the balance between bleeding edge and tried and true right. Do you go bleeding edge and suffer from lack of development or do you go tried and true and get beaten by someone who goes more bleeding edge.

The original Air race had a restriction that the aircraft had to be built within the British Empire and was in part to encourage the development of new aircraft technologies. It would be great if the new competition had the similar aims to develop Australian aircraft technology. How would you define Australian made in the modern era of global supply chains would need some careful thought.

Awesome Idea! My head is spinning with thoughts about how to win this...

[27/09]

The original Air race had a restriction that the aircraft had to be built within the British Empire and was in part to encourage the development of new aircraft technologies. It would be great if the new competition had the similar aims to develop Australian aircraft technology. How would you define Australian made in the modern era of global supply chains would need some careful thought.

This would severely limit the number of potential entrants.

[aroa]

Great idea for a commemoration...AND to advance the techo for light flight.

There already exists a German electric motor glider with solar panels on the wings and a range in excess of 1000 kms...so its quite feasable.

There is also a US electric LSA... the name escapes me..but sleek and fast?
The Chinese Yuneeq... which now may be much improved.. was a circuit trainer only..slow and not much range a few years ago.
An hour and a half of circuit training... and a re-charge at $7.oo !!
The realty would be greater, but how much more affordable would flying be !

A good example would be the Darwin -Adelaide Solar Challenge.
Just look at the amazing developments and changes over the years that have occurred there to speed up the journey.

Im sure there would be many student groups from around the world with the skills and techo-knowhow to put up a machine to give their country some qudos. All good stuff.:ok:

So while all you folk have been paddling down the "Roo Route", (been there done that), I'll meet y'all up in Darwin having crossed Oz with a bag of mail to commemorate the First Aerial Crossing of Australia from Pt Cook to Darwin in 1919. Not sure I can afford an electric biplane tho. :{

Now where do I get a BE 2 replica from... NZed ?

[tail wheel]

Dick may be onto a great idea that is possible?

According to Tesla Motors/SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, once batteries are capable of producing 400 Watt-hours per kilogram, with a Power-to-weight ratio of between 0.7-0.8, then an electrical transcontinental aircraft becomes “compelling”.

This could be a possible starter with present technology - combination glider and electric power?

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Lange_Flugzeugbau_Antares_20E.jpg/1280px-Lange_Flugzeugbau_Antares_20E.jpg

Or an electric Cri-cri (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e0/Cri-Cri_electric.png)??

The SkySpark (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3b/Skyspark_profilo.jpg/1920px-Skyspark_profilo.jpg) is a joint project of engineering company DigiSky and Polytechnic University of Turin. The two-seat Pioneer Alpi 300 has a 75 kW (101 hp) brushless electric motor powered by lithium polymer batteries. The aircraft achieved a world record of 250 km/h (155 mph) for a human-carrying electric aircraft on 12 June 2009.

[no_one]

electric long EZ
(shame about the battery failure)
rNAPLxZtoPg

[Ultralights]

WiADDbeFanU

not to mention the hybrid version of this in the works..

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fgX0aoMvdSs/maxresdefault.jpg

[TBM-Legend]

Dick,

Make it a global challenge. Three years notice and I'm very sure that many people will answer the call.

[CharlieLimaX-Ray]

Why don't we get a group together charter a Qantas B747 and fly the 1919 Air Race route?

Then we can say we flew it solo and go on the motivational tour circuit?

What was the actual route for the 1919 and 1969 air race?

[tail wheel]

1919 Race, it seems there wasn't a fixed route except for the departure point, arrival at Darwin and reporting points at Alexandria and Singapore?

In early 1919, the Commonwealth Government of Australia offered a prize of £A10,000 for the first flight from Great Britain to Australia, under specific conditions. In May 1919, Billy Hughes, Prime Minister of Australia, and Senator George Pearce, Minister for Defence (Australia), in consultation with the Royal Aero Club, stated that valid aircrews must all be Australian nationals, the aircraft must have been constructed in the British Empire, and the journey must be completed within 720 consecutive hours (30 days) and be completed before midnight on 31 December 1920. The departure point must be either Hounslow Heath Aerodrome (for landplanes) or RNAS Calshot (for seaplanes and flying boats), with reporting points at Alexandria and Singapore, and final destination in the region of Darwin. Each flight was to take place under the competition rules of the Royal Aero Club, that would supervise the start, and control the competition generally.

The 1969 England-Australia Commemorative Air Race started 18 Dec 1969 and finished 4 Jan 1970, was won by W. J. Bright and F. L. Buxton in a BN Islander G-AXUD.

http://www.pprune.org/aviation-history-nostalgia/303738-1969-bp-sponsored-london-sydney-air-race.html

[The name is Porter]

Tailwheel, any chance you could re-size that image? There's a sticky to help you out if you need it :ok:


Apologies. Fixed! :ok:

Tail Wheel

[Stanwell]

Why don't we get a group together charter a Qantas B747 and fly the 1919 Air Race route?

Then we can say we flew it solo and go on the motivational tour circuit?

What was the actual route for the 1919 and 1969 air race?


Well, why not, CLX?
The Smith brothers in their Vimy stopped over at such delightful places as .. Cairo, Damascus, Basra and Karachi.

I'm sure a lot of the locals there will turn out to make us all most welcome. ;)


p.s. And I'll be able to show all my friends a witnessed certificate stating that I did it solo.
......After all, I was the only one sitting in that particular seat!
.

[aaavn]

Dick's idea is really good.

Commemorative flights in old aircraft have their place but particularly on the UK-Australia route, numerous such flights have become simply personal challenges.

The many modern light aircraft flights (not including the great efforts of the on the edge ultra-light people) are little more than a frustrating exercise in administration. The aircraft are relatively fast (100kts is fast to an antique aircraft pilot), comfortable and absolutely reliable with no-stress range and navigational capabilities. Having said that, everyone who has the means should have a go at an intercontinental flight which will result in an experience far beyond anything to be attempted in your home country.

The 1919 flight was really that over-used term "cutting edge". Dick's idea is to comemorate that concept by retaining the cutting edge. Looking back at history but looking forward to create something new like the boys of a century ago.

It can be done but there is no way it is possible today. Powered gliders might do it but probably not acceptable on air routes with changing altitudes and chasing thermals which would be absolutely necessary to achieve the range left short by the current failure to come up with an efficient electrical storage system.

In 3 years? I have high hopes and Dick's idea is worthy of chasing.

[Dick Smith]

The link below goes to a paper that was sent to me by Lang Kidby and shows the difficulty at the present time in building an electric powered aeroplane that could fly from the UK to Australia.

Of course we have 3 years between now and then but from what I can make out, we’d need some pretty staggering improvements in the reduction of battery weight to be able to have such an Air Race. What do others think?

See here, http://www.mh-aerotools.de/company/paper_14/MP-AVT-209-09.pdf

[no_one]

Dick,

I am sure that the paper is as damming as you think. Their focus in that paper was on commercially viable aircraft for transport and that I do think that is a long way off. The electric aircraft that can do this now is a practical for taking the family to Bali as the Victor Vimy.

Look at figure 16 in the paper. This shows that if the battery energy density is 250whr/kg, the mbattery/mtotal is 0.6 and the L/d is 20 you can get a range of about 750km. With careful consideration of logistics this might just be enough.

These numbers are achievable with current 2016 technology but with a significant amount of development work.

If you can get the L/d to 40, The energy density up to 300whr/kg and the mbattery/mtotal to 0.7 and by that graph it romps out to 2500km range.

Imagine a single seat version of the Stemme S10 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stemme_S10) with a 600kg battery, 70kg pilot and about 250kg of structure.

[Dick Smith]

No One, you’re absolutely correct of course.

By the way, it looks as if the maximum distance required will be 258 nautical miles from Kupang to Troughton Island, that’s 478 km. That starts to make me believe it could be achievable.

I’m considering putting up AUD $1 million prize money but I need to think a lot more about this and get a lot more advice before I firm this up.

[Acrosport II]

Don't restrict entry to Commonwealth only.

Open it up to any Country and try to get as many Competitors as possible.

More successful and more News Worthy then.

IMHO.

[Dick Smith]

Yes. Definitely open to all comers. The main aim will be to promote innovation and dare I say it ADVENTURE !

[no_one]

Dick,

A few points for you to ponder as you mull over the nature of the competition:

• Is the event going to be a race, ie all start at the same time first to finish? Or more like the original where the prize went to the first to do it and any starting time was allowed?

• If it is a race should it be flying time or total time? Do you want to encourage short fast hops or longer slower flights? Do you want to include recharging time?

• How do you resolve bad weather into that equation? It would be good if the decision not to proceed into a CB wasn’t the deciding factor in the race but also you don’t want people camped out in one place for a month waiting for exactly the right tailwind to minimise their total elapsed time.

• Is having the same battery the whole way required? It could get expensive if teams decided to over discharge batteries to gain an advantage if they just replace them at the next stop. But would a team be disqualified if a cell went bad?

• Do you want to limit battery technologies? If a highly unstable but energy dense technology is developed would you allow it and take the risk?

• Do you allow support aircraft? Support technicians? Pilot changes? Some of this becomes easier if the support is shared ie all aircraft fly to the one airport on day 1 but this limits some of the decisions above about a race all at one time and it cant be based on total time.

• Do you have a qualifying event a year or so before hand? Perhaps require a 1000km/nm flight(s). This would give you some certainty that the event was going to happen a year out. If you get no qualifiers (I suspect that you will get lots) you can pull the pin before having a big media letdown. This might though rule out some teams who are late to get organised but otherwise likely to be key competitors.

[Dick Smith]

All good points

I would imagine a first start date and time and then it's who gets to Darwin first

Just like the original.

Participants will organise their own clearances and support.

The minimum rules necessary.

Probably start not before June 1919 so can get through before the worst of the monsoon.

Probably not allow the dumping of batteries en route.

May end up with some different classes otherwise Mr Piccard could win with his existing aircraft and we do want to drive innovation over the next three years.

I would say that the same crew must make the full journey.

No prelim flights. Too expensive to organise.

Whoever gets to Darwin first. Just like the first race.

[Band a Lot]

I would expect the early use of passenger aircraft would use a replaceable but rechargeable battery pack/s. The time taken to recharge fixed units would make for long stopovers.


So to focus on only allowing 1 battery to be used, may put the intention of the idea in the wrong direction.

Using exchange battery's on planned locations could be a good idea, and make for Cliff Young flights to happen if allowed.

[Dick Smith]

Following is the most recent article published in The Australian today.

Dick Smith's $1m air race prize: government 'lacks imagination'

Businessman and aviator Dick Smith has lamented the government’s “lack of imagination” for failing to commit financial incentives or support for an electric-powered air race from England to Australia to spur on innovation in aviation.

Mr Smith is willing to stump up $1 million of his own money to support the initiative which would be timed to coincide with the 100-year anniversary of the first England to Australia Air Race.

Mr Smith had wanted the government to match his offer of a $1m prize but so far he has not received any commitment that it would do so.

He says he will now direct that money to a charity.

“It’s just all talk with this government,’’ Mr Smith said.

“It seems you need three years of talking before anything can get done. Where’s the action?”

“I wish we had Billy Hughes back who came up with the idea for the 1919 England to Australia flight and put up £10,000 prizemoney. That was a prime minister who understood innovation.”

The 1919 event drew six competitors but only one — headed by captain Ross Smith and his brother Keith as navigator — finished within the allotted 30-day time limit.

The only other plane to complete the journey took 206 days, but the event was deemed a success because the 27-day, 20-hour effort by the Smiths was extraordinary at the time.

“I have this idea to repeat the race 100 years later — but this time put a different angle on it, that it’s the fastest plane that can get from England to Australia that is electrically powered,” Mr Smith wrote to then industry, innovation and science minister Christopher Pyne and major projects minister Paul Fletcher in March.

“At the present time this just can’t be done, as the greatest range aeroplane is about 300 nautical miles and the pilot would need at least 400 to fly from Timor to Australia.”

Both Mr Pyne and Mr Fletcher expressed interest in the idea with the latter describing it as “an exciting concept”.

“I will raise with Christopher Pyne in the first instance — I’ll come back to you in a few days to let you know status,” Mr Fletcher said in March.

But since those letters to the government in March, Mr Smith says the line has gone cold.

Mr Smith wrote to the new Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Greg Hunt, late last month, but claims he has been passed on to Transport Minister Darren Chester.

“There appears to be a consistent lack of any leadership or decision-making by all ministers,’’ Mr Smith said.

“How can a minister that has the word ‘innovation’ in his job description just forward it on to a colleague who will clearly do nothing.’’

A spokeswoman for Mr Chester said the minister had met Mr Smith in the past and appreciated his passion for Australian aviation.

“The minister’s office has received correspondence from Mr Smith in relation to the proposed air race and the minister would be happy to have further discussions regarding the support he requires, if any, from the government,” the spokeswoman said.

[Band a Lot]

Dick why not hit up Michael Gunner? He will still be in office then, and we know a bit about solar racing up this way - Might replace the $ Million Fish.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Solar_Challenge

[onetrack]

Sounds like a worthy idea, from the bloke who's full of ideas, at the best of times!

My opinion is to not be too restrictive on the entrants. It's not 1919 any more, it's 2019 and the only thing we need to keep uppermost in the race rules is advances and improvements in "aviation technology".

Set up race classes (just like car racing), and offer rewards for lightest aircraft, electric aircraft, hybrid aircraft, conventional aircraft showing tehcnological improvements, etc., etc.

And of course, large Dick Smith advertising decals on every aircraft, would be a basic requirement! :ok:

[Band a Lot]

What sort of electric motor/s would 51,060 x 3500mAh Lithium-ion batteries run? or need batteries with a bit more bang than that?

[Supermouse3]

Lithium-Air battery cells which have already been developed, are capable of around 12kWh/Kg, petrol is around 13kWh/Kg, with further development they could be on to a good thing, I am optimistic in 3 years we will have a winner

[Band a Lot]

New lithium-oxygen battery greatly improves energy efficiency, longevity | MIT News (http://news.mit.edu/2016/new-lithium-oxygen-battery-greatly-improves-energy-efficiency-longevity-0725)

[Band a Lot]

The 328 stuff interesting.

http://www.mh-aerotools.de/company/paper_14/MP-AVT-209-09.pdf

[onetrack]

The "breakthrough" is not all it's claimed to be, apparently.

Breakthrough in lithium-air battery technology disputed (http://phys.org/news/2016-05-dispute-breakthrough-lithium-battery-technology.html)

[onetrack]

But this is better news - and it's a product that will be available very soon, because it can be produced on the existing Lithium-ion production facilities.

New design Lithium metal batteries double power output for consumer electronics, electric cars (http://news.mit.edu/2016/lithium-metal-batteries-double-power-consumer-electronics-0817)

[mcoates]

News release today saying the race is on. Where do i enter ?

[Dick Smith]

They have changed it a bit from my original proposal and now there is a fuel efficiency section for normal aircraft.

So get out your moony !

[aroa]

Great to see this idea is up and running (flying?) again.
Will be interesting to see the electric/hybrid/solar/battery competitor line up.
These a few out there, and this will give the future of flight a push along.

And be plenty of fun for those involved.

What has Oz got to offer in the way of a 'bird' ? A modified Jabiru or something?

[Bend alot]

What has Oz got to offer in the way of a 'bird' ? A modified Jabiru or something?



That why they are getting the Belfast in Cairns ready, to ferry the J450-E series Jabiru.

[mcoates]

They have changed it a bit from my original proposal and now there is a fuel efficiency section for normal aircraft.

So get out your moony !


Hi Dick, i PM'd you but no answer..... where can we get links to the rules and entries etc please ???

Thanks Michael Coates

[thunderbird five]

Where would one get info on such a great air race............ dunno, maybe

https://www.greatairrace.com.au/

[Matt48]

Great to see this idea is up and running (flying?) again.
Will be interesting to see the electric/hybrid/solar/battery competitor line up.
These a few out there, and this will give the future of flight a push along.

And be plenty of fun for those involved.

What has Oz got to offer in the way of a 'bird' ? A modified Jabiru or something?

Can we " mid air refuel " using a coax cable from a lighty.

[Bend alot]

Can we " mid air refuel " using a coax cable from a lighty.



That time of year just trail a long conductor line and let nature charge you up in a flash.

[Matt48]

Pipistrel seem to have an electric plane capable of an hours flight plus 30 mins reserve, this is on two batteries, I wonder how many batteries can be added to the plane to extend flying time, gonna be an awfully slow race stopping every hour for a recharge.

[Matt48]

That time of year just trail a long conductor line and let nature charge you up in a flash.

LOL, fit her up with a few supercapacitors.

[Matt48]

They have changed it a bit from my original proposal and now there is a fuel efficiency section for normal aircraft.

So get out your moony !

How about a Jabiru with watercooled heads and fuel injection.

[Dick Smith]

What currently available aircraft has the best SFC?

Would it be a motor glider?

[omnis]

What currently available aircraft has the best SFC?

Would it be a motor glider?

Depends on which parameters you apply. I hear the Solar Impulse was pretty good.:)

But look at the results from Green Flight Challenge and Berblinger Flight Competition.

@ cafe.foundation/blog/green-flight-challenge-final-results/

@ cafe.foundation/blog/berblinger-flight-competition-winners-for-2011/

[Dick Smith]

Here is an article from the Sunday Telegraph August 30, 2018 entitled "Countries too dangerous to fly over in Great Air Race 2018: Dick Smith proposed air race too dangerous (https://www.dicksmithfairgo.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/30.8.18-DT-Dick-Smith-proposed-air-race-too-dangerous.pdf)".

[mcoates]

It's great to see some media support and exposure for this great event. I just don't 'understand' the stupid title to the article. Let's hope for a full field and a grate competition !

[omnis]

Does anyone know if there are any genuine entrants in development?

[Andy_RR]

What currently available aircraft has the best SFC?

Would it be a motor glider?

No - small, low-power engines don't tend to make spectacular SFCs because the surface/volume ratio of the combustion chamber is heading down the toilet however SFC is only part of a very large picture and making loads of shaft power efficiently is pointless if you blow most of it away with poor aero and thrust efficiency.

[omnis]

What is your definition of 'small', and 'low power'?

[mcoates]

Does anyone know if there are any genuine entrants in development?

There seems to be some very serious entrants from what i have seen. Several EU companies/groups and a few from the USA as well. Mostly Hybrid and fuel cell as well as several in the fuel efficiency class as well.

[LeadSled]

There seems to be some very serious entrants from what i have seen. Several EU companies/groups and a few from the USA as well. Mostly Hybrid and fuel cell as well as several in the fuel efficiency class as well.

Folks,
The CASA contribution will be interesting??
My "little birdy" in the Glass House says that CASA will not recognise/permit "Experimental" aircraft from other countries in Australian airspace ---- always trying to be helpful!!.--- Normal C of A or stay away ---- There is a new slogan for you, to go with "We're not happy 'till your not happy"
The disgraceful way the Vimy replica was treated last time, was a precedent.
Of course, CASA looks the other way when the "Experimental" just happens to be a new model by Boeing or Airbus.
I really hate to be cynical, but ------???
Tootle pip!!

[mcoates]

"says that CASA will not recognise/permit "Experimental" aircraft from other countries"

I don't know this is true, i have seen many experimental registered aircraft with OS registration come through the Gold Coast area on their way somewhere, lots of N numbered EXP Lancair's flying the South Pacific, all the Ericsson air cranes fighting fires are EXP

I imagine they could do an exemption if it was the case because lets face it, from entering Australian "Airspace" to land at Darwin doesn't really pose a real threat to anyone. ESPECIALLY if these experimentals had already proven themselves and covered 18,000 kms before they arrive.

[Paul O'Rourke]

I’m seeing 2019 but I can’t see a month that it kicks off. When does the challenge start?
Is there going to be a television series resulting from following the feats of this green technology challenge?
This is a great initiative that reinvents the concept of “challenge,” especially in the world of aviation.

[mcoates]

Oct/Nov start in London, date to be confirmed. I understand there is a tv show coming from the event.

[LeadSled]

"says that CASA will not recognise/permit "Experimental" aircraft from other countries"

I don't know this is true, i have seen many experimental registered aircraft with OS registration come through the Gold Coast area on their way somewhere, lots of N numbered EXP Lancair's flying the South Pacific, all the Ericsson air cranes fighting fires are EXP

I imagine they could do an exemption if it was the case because lets face it, from entering Australian "Airspace" to land at Darwin doesn't really pose a real threat to anyone. ESPECIALLY if these experimentals had already proven themselves and covered 18,000 kms before they arrive.

mcoates,
Very interesting, I agree entirely with your second paragraph, but such practical realities are of little interest to the box ticking jobsworths of CASA. The Vimy replica made it to Australia, CAA/CASA (whichever it was at the time) would not let it fly "over a populace area", so it could not fulfill contractual sponsorship obligations.

The usual arrangement is that, for ICAO contracting states, only an ICAO Annex VIII C.of A. aeroplane has access to the relevant "freedoms of the air". For everything else, those responsible for the operation of an aircraft have to negotiate flight by flight individual approval to fly with the relevant authority of every state they pass through.

In the real world, unless you are ramp checked, who knows what certificate you are flying on., if you only come across the usual Customs and Immigration and Security wherever you are.

I would be fascinated to know whether these swarms of US Experimental Lancairs etc really have CASA specific approval, or it is a matter of ignorance and luck.
Tootle pip!!

PS: I have seen some pretty amazing things done on the basis of "don't ask, don't tell".
PS2: Ericsson do have a Type Certificate for the Skycrane, whether it is applicable to all their aircraft I do not know. What I do know is that CASA would not intervene in such a publicly high profile operation,they would be publicly and politically slaughtered.

[mcoates]

Just a quick update on the Great Air Race 2019.

I was fortunate enough to travel up to Darwin on Sunday and Monday for the 99 year celebrations and the countdown starting on 10 December 2019 for the event to finish in Darwin.

I can't share the total statistics until they are made public by the organisers but I can tell you this event is going to have a HUGE global reach of close to 1.5 billion people being exposed to information about the event, the aircraft and the participants.

Currently there are 26 teams entered with more expected to enter before the deadline and probably a few to drop away because they are not ready with their technology.

Attending the event on the weekend really does prove that the organisers have everything under control and along with support of many organisations and groups including the Northern Territory government this is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for participants to leave London next November and arrive in Darwin on December 10, 2019.

As they say, "watch this space" and also their website for more information as it is released.... https://www.greatairrace.com.au/

[mcoates]

The official press release has been made available. hopefully it has scanned and OCR'd correctly

2019 Great Air Race from London to Darwin, and Centenary Celebrations program launched on 99th Anniversary of Great Air Race landing in DarwinToday, December 10th 2018, marked the 99th anniversary of the first successful 18,000km flight from London to Darwin, undertaken by Sir Ross Smith, Sir Keith Smith, and crew members Wally Shiers and James Bennett in under 28 days. This flight marks one of the most significant moments in Australian and global history, as its success positioned Australia as a major player in worldwide air travel and trade and propelled the aviation industry into the modern age.

In Darwin today, organisers announced a number of global initiatives, partnerships, and events across 2019 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Great Air Race.

Great Air Race Director Craig Sheridan said:

"We're proud to announce today, on the 99th anniversary of the historic 1919 Great Air Race landing right here in Darwin, that we will be holding a series of Centenary Celebrations throughout the world as we build up to our 2019 Great Air Race. Darwin and the Territory will be placed firmly on the world stage as we give the world an experience to remember!"

In reference to the 2019 Great Air Race Mr Sheridan said:

"We aim to celebrate a century of achievement by engineers, designers, and aircraft constructors as electric-powered aircraft are used to re-enact the London to Darwin Great Air Race in 2019. Taking off from London in November 2019, the Great Air Race field will take flight for a 28-day sojourn across four continents and over 21 stops. From the northern winter of Europe through to the heat and haze of the Middle East, across the Indian sub-continent and down into sub-tropical Asia, the eyes of the world will be on the Great Air Race and Darwin as Aviation history is made!"

The full program of initiatives and events launched today included Great Air Race Insider, an interactive engagement program for aviation fanatics and enthusiasts around the globe, a Celebration of Aviation and Air Show, the Great Air Race Centenary Ball, the Great Air Race Take Off in November 2019, and the Ceremonial Arrival of the Great Air Race and Great Air Race Festival in December 2019.


Several Strategic and Supporting Partners were announced at today's launch, including Global Digital Partner - Rakuten, Global Aviation Logistic Partner - 2Excel Broadsword, Accommodation Partner *Hilton Hotel and Hilton by Doubletree, Venue Partner—Northern Territory Airports, and Supporting Beverage Partner in Australia — Carlton & United Breweries.

The Great Air Race also extended a thank you to the Northern Territory Government for their involvement as a Strategic Partner of the 2019 Great Air Race Centenary Celebrations.

Present at today's launch were special guests Greek Consul General John Anictomatis, Indonesian Consul General Mohammad Hanifa, Timor-Leste Consul General Francisco Jose Felipe, and The Hon. Luke Gosling OAM MP, Member for Soloman. Great Air Race was also delighted to have Kylie Blackwell, the Great Great Niece of Wally Shiers in attendance, alongside Lauren Moss, MP Minister for Tourism and Culture representing the Northern Territory Government.

Minister Moss spoke to the history of the 1919 Great Air Race, and the excitement surrounding the 2019 Great Air Race Centenary Celebrations during today's launch:

"The 1919 Great Air Race put little-known Darwin on the world map — and we are set to do it again with the Centenary of this momentous, history-making event...

...It is exciting to launch the Centenary Year of the Great Air Race, and a suite of events that will bring the Territory's rich history, and our future potential, to the world stage."

A truly global event, the 2019 Great Air Race Centenary Celebrations will deliver an unparalleled level of reach to both aviation enthusiasts and a broader general interest audience via a comprehensive marketing program. Great Air Race Commercial Director Mat Bell went into further detail on this program during the launch:

"The Great Air Race provides a unique opportunity for our partners to reach and engage a significant international audience. A conservative forecast has placed the cumulative global reach of Great Air Race at 1.43 Billion impressions across digital, social media, tourism, traditional advertising, broadcast, and PR channels throughout the Great Air Race program...

...We have also secured an in-principle agreement with a production house for an international documentary that will see the Great Air Race Broadcast to over 250 million homes across 100 markets. Furthermore, as part of our Great Air Race Insider program we will also provide unique and instantaneous content to our audience via a dedicated platform hosted on the Great Air Race website. This will literally put our audience in the pilot's seat as teams embark on their global aviation adventure!"

Great Air Race historian Brian Kino was also present and spoke passionately about the Smith Brothers and crews' flight in 1919, and what the 2019 Great Air Race will mean for modern aviation:

"For its time, the 1919 Great Air Race was as significant to the world as man landing on the moon 50 years later. It ought to be recognised as one of the most significant moments in Australian history...

...The world stood in awe 99 years ago as the Smith brothers transformed flight and positioned Australia at the forefront of the aviation industry. Newspaper articles and headlines around the world lauded the Great Air Race and the world record flight, with the New York Times editorial of December 12 gushing, "Captain Ross Smith has done a wonderful thing for the prestige of the British Empire. He must be hailed as the foremost living aviator".

Brian added:

'The Great Air Race will do in 2019 what the Smith brothers did 99 years ago: it will generate a new age of global air travel".


General Manager of the Great Air Race, Milton O'Brien conducted a short interview with 2019 Great Air Race entrant Michael Coates. Coates, a pilot himself stated:

"This will be massive accomplishment for the global aviation industry. The 2019 Great Air Race flight path is easily completed by commercial aircraft on a daily basis, but do it in light fuel-efficient aircraft, hybrids, and battery powered aircraft in the proposed timeframe is nothing short of a miracle. Completing the 2019 Great Air Race will be akin to the first commercial airliner taking flight, and the advancement in aviation technology that follows will be unprecedented. I can't wait to be a part of it!"

Further details on the Centenary Celebrations are expected to be released in the coming months. Expressions of interest will remain open until February 2019 for anyone who would like to enter an aircraft in the 2019 Great Air Race.

There is also an opportunity for the entire Aviation industry to become involved, with several sponsorship and partnership opportunities available for the Great Air Race and the 2019 Great Air Race Centenary Celebrations.

For more information, please visit www.greatairrace.com.au (http://www.greatairrace.com.au) Contacts for Great Air Race:

Milton O'Brien
General Manager
Inspire Strategic Solutions
[email protected]

Laura Sweetman
Event Coordinator
Inspire Strategic Solutions
[email protected]

[mcoates]

GAR Release Video https://youtu.be/OalgM4OiGAE

[aroa]

Dick's little idea has turned into something bigger than Ben Hur . Thanks for that.

[mcoates]

More information about the Great Air Race was released today. Enjoy.

https://goo.gl/PXTGZ4

[mcoates]

Terrible news today as the event has been cancelled ! Dreams shattered.

To: Great Air Race — Stakeholders, Partners and Entrants
Re: GREAT AIR RACE

It is with deep regret that the organisers of the Great Air Race today announced that the proposed E-Race event between London and Darwin over November and December 2019 has been cancelled.

Following some 15 months of interaction and engagement with key Australian and international aviation and foreign affairs bodies, the organisers have been unable to secure agreements with the relevant government authorities to guarantee safe passage for all participants, organisers and officials through the proposed 25 ports and countries on the route, by the deadline of 15t April 2019, which leaves no option but to cancel the race.

With the planned route reflecting the amazing journey of Ross and Keith Smith and their crew in 1919, the organisers have been faced with many challenges, including dealing with a number of geo-political hot spots, that cannot be accessed by the Great Air Race without full government engagement, chaperoning and on-ground coordination, leaving the Great Air Race effectively with no where to go, except cancellation.

We would like to sincerely thank and recognize all of the stakeholders who have proactively supported the Great Air Race 2019 event concept, especially,

· the thirty three teams who have shared the vision and dream and officially entered.

· the aviation and industry stakeholders and suppliers who have been incredibly enthusiastic and supportive in building the event model.

· the Northern Territory government in Australia, who, in particular have supported the grand vision from the inception.

A principal goal of creating the Great Air Race 2019 event, was to bring to life and generate global recognition for the original Great Air Race and the remarkable achievements of Ross and Keith Smith and the crew in 1919, some 100 years ago. We encourage everyone who has been involved with the Great Air Race project or who has an interested in aviation history to maintain the passion and ensure that through social media and digital marketing, that these amazing feats will be celebrated on the 10th December 2019, the 100th Anniversary of the original Great Air Race.

The Directors and Staff

GREAT AIR RACE - 2019

[Ex FSO GRIFFO]

"Peace On Earth And Goodwill to...….."

But not for a 'historic' air-race...…..

NOT EVEN.....!!!!

NOPE!!!!

[mcoates]

The problem was the wide range of nationalities that had entered. If they were all British, all Australia or whatever, then no problems but when you have people from all countries entered this suddenly became an issue mixing in all the world nations into the event. If an EU citizen could overfly a country but a US citizen, or Israel citizen couldnt then it all became too hard and impossible for the event organisers.

I might still see if i can fly the course and do the celebration flight anyway if i can afford the overflight and landing fees. Its just a shame because many people invested a lot of money into this once in 100 year event and bureaucracy killed it cold.

[omnis]

The problem was the wide range of nationalities that had entered. If they were all British, all Australia or whatever, then no problems but when you have people from all countries entered this suddenly became an issue mixing in all the world nations into the event. If an EU citizen could overfly a country but a US citizen, or Israel citizen couldnt then it all became too hard and impossible for the event organisers.

I might still see if i can fly the course and do the celebration flight anyway if i can afford the overflight and landing fees. Its just a shame because many people invested a lot of money into this once in 100 year event and bureaucracy killed it cold.

Yes, the official event could not be organised, but it doesn't stop people choosing to fly from London to Darwin! If there happens to be someone who can do it quicker than others, they would have won in the same way Captain Ross Smith, his brother Lieutenant Keith Smith and Sergeants Wally Shiers and James Bennett did. Quite likely the first to land in Darwin could expect some sort of recognition, maybe someone would offer a prize.

[aroa]

What a shame..the adventure and electric developments would have been interesting to see.
And no doubt lead to other things.

All is not lost, mcoates. Hava go. Adventure of a lifetime. You certainly wont regret it, the places you see, the people you meet. And the "teaching process" you get.
Compared with putting it all together, clearances and visas etc...the flying is the easy part.
Plan via the smaller places..bigger the city, worse the bureaucracy. altho for customs and immigration in bound and out bound may be unavoidable.
You would prob need a mogas engine as avgas no longer avbl at many places.
A 100th Anniversary Philatelic mail , sale of ,could help offset yr costs.
Worked for me at the Fiftieth. G-AOHF aka 'Air Race 50' by default...of de folk at some de stopovers.

[omnis]

CANNONBALL

[Paul O'Rourke]

With 7 months remaining before the race kickoff, before this event was cancelled, where there any advancements in technology from any entrants of “The great air race” that can be spoken about?

[omnis]

I know of several developments which I cannot talk about. There is definitely a possibility for pure-electric flight in the near future, and hybrid will be straight forward. Needs to be a reward incentive and more folks will go.

[Global Aviator]

CANNONBALL

If I had the money I would be in like Flynn!!!

If someone will sponsor me an aircraft then... I’m in...

Tell him he’s dreaming...

[omnis]

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-10/michael-smith-waves-from-his-plane-1/11786478