What is it.

[Gipsy Queen]

I have been staying in Tiverton for a few weeks and have noticed an over-flying (quite high) aircraft I do not recognise.

It seems about the size of an Auster, has a high strut-braced wing and possibly an inverted engine. What is unusual is that it has a twin tail. Can anyone enlighten me please?

[Malcolm G O Payne]

It might be a Nord 853. I think that is the model number. I flew one with that description in France in 1954.

[welkyboy]

Chrislea CH3 SkyJeep 4 G-AKVR based at Eggesford nr Crediton Devon

[172driver]

Although it doesn't really look like an Auster (well, not from up close, at least), you wouldn't be talking about a Cessna Skymaster, perchance ?

PS: this pic isn't really very good, as you don't see the twin tails properly. I'm sure there are better ones out there somewhere

[welkyboy]

Here is a picture of the Skyjeep
Chrislea CH3 Skyjeep Srs 4, G-AKVR, Private

[Gipsy Queen]

I know little of Cessna aircraft (although I have logged a lot of hours in a 404) but do recognise a Skymaster - definitely not one of those. And not the Nord which had a flat engine if I remember correctly. However, the Skyjeep seems to be the ticket; particularly as it provided that Gipsy Major noise which is what made me think the engine was inverted. I have seen it quite often and as Crediton is not far away, this does seem to be the answer. Curious back end though - I thought those people in Shoreham were the only ones using this configuration behind a single engine.

Thank you, Gentlemen for your quick response.

[WorkingHard]

Chrislea and was recovered from down under and recuilt here. Originally used as a casevac aircraft, a stretcher can be carried on board

[B2N2]

What about this one, French Broussard:

[wilma80]

It is definitely the Skyjeep but the Broussard has also been flying.
If you are in the area pop up to Eggesford and see us.
Tea and coffe but bring some biscuits!