de Havilland DH.60 Gypsy Moth
Rebuilding a Legend
Let’s assume that funding is available. What options are available to creating a replica Airco DH4a?
Firstly it is possible to build a full sized model (FSM) - a static representation of the original aircraft, but clearly not an accurate facsimile. These FSMs feature in numerous independent museums, with some models being more accurate than others.
In the St. Stephen’s shopping centre in Hull, a replica of the Amy Johnson’s de Havilland DH.60 Gypsy Moth G-AAAH “Jason” is suspended from the high ceiling. This aircraft was built by inmates of Hull Prison.
Let’s assume that funding is available. What options are available to creating a replica Airco DH4a?
Firstly it is possible to build a full sized model (FSM) - a static representation of the original aircraft, but clearly not an accurate facsimile. These FSMs feature in numerous independent museums, with some models being more accurate than others.
In the St. Stephen’s shopping centre in Hull, a replica of the Amy Johnson’s de Havilland DH.60 Gypsy Moth G-AAAH “Jason” is suspended from the high ceiling. This aircraft was built by inmates of Hull Prison.
Vickers F.B.5 Gunbus
The next option is to build an accurate static or non flying replica, using original drawings and materials. While costly, such representations are cherished by the national museums who use such replicas to fill gaps in their collections.
Originally built in 1966 by BAC apprentices, this replica of the Vickers F.B.5 Gunbus is now an exhibit at the RAF Museum at Hendon.
Originally built in 1966 by BAC apprentices, this replica of the Vickers F.B.5 Gunbus is now an exhibit at the RAF Museum at Hendon.
Bristol M.1C Monoplane Scout
Finally, it is possible to build an accurate, airworthy replica, again using original materials and components where possible.
The Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden maintains and operates an airworthy replica Bristol M.1C Monoplane Scout C4918 (G-BWJM). Considered a "late production" model more than a replica, it was built by the Northern Aeroplane Workshops, and fitted with an original Le Rhône rotary engine.
The Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden maintains and operates an airworthy replica Bristol M.1C Monoplane Scout C4918 (G-BWJM). Considered a "late production" model more than a replica, it was built by the Northern Aeroplane Workshops, and fitted with an original Le Rhône rotary engine.
Airco DH4a G-EAJC Reborn
Let's assume that funds are available to build an airworthy replica, fitted with an original Rolls Royce Eagle or American Liberty engine. All work undertaken would be contracted out to licensed engineers. This is not a project that can be undertaken by amateurs in a garden shed.
Incidentally, the Airco DH9 was a development of the DH4, which shared many components. The Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) and its subsidiary Retrotec Ltd recently restored two examples of the DH9, one to airworthy condition. Another subsidiary owns a Rolls Royce Eagle engine available for £75,000. Other companies are able to undertake similar work. One option is to share the burden by employing sub contractors, thus reducing the length of time it will take to complete the project.
Any restoration to flying condition will need to adhere to strict Civil Aviation Authority guidelines, with additional modern safety features being fitted as advised or required by the CAA. These could include a robust firewall behind the engine and a flexible, puncher-proof fuel tank. This safety feature would be advantageous as the main fuel tank is fitted between the pilot and his two passengers.
Let's assume that funds are available to build an airworthy replica, fitted with an original Rolls Royce Eagle or American Liberty engine. All work undertaken would be contracted out to licensed engineers. This is not a project that can be undertaken by amateurs in a garden shed.
Incidentally, the Airco DH9 was a development of the DH4, which shared many components. The Historic Aircraft Collection (HAC) and its subsidiary Retrotec Ltd recently restored two examples of the DH9, one to airworthy condition. Another subsidiary owns a Rolls Royce Eagle engine available for £75,000. Other companies are able to undertake similar work. One option is to share the burden by employing sub contractors, thus reducing the length of time it will take to complete the project.
Any restoration to flying condition will need to adhere to strict Civil Aviation Authority guidelines, with additional modern safety features being fitted as advised or required by the CAA. These could include a robust firewall behind the engine and a flexible, puncher-proof fuel tank. This safety feature would be advantageous as the main fuel tank is fitted between the pilot and his two passengers.
Once complete the aircraft would be finished in the markings of Airco DH4a G-EAJC of the Aircraft Transport and Travel Ltd, and placed on permanent loan with one of our national institutions.
