Following the incident involving its de Havilland DH.88 Comet during the Flying Proms Air Show on August 15, 2026, the Shuttleworth Trust has confirmed its intention to rebuild the historic aircraft to airworthy condition. The Trust recently reached an agreement in principle with its insurers, allowing a detailed assessment of the aircraft and the subsequent repair work to begin. Registered G-ACSS, the Comet is one of the most significant aircraft in the Shuttleworth Collection. Insurance funding is expected to cover the essential work required to return the aircraft to flight. However, the Trust plans to undertake a broader program of restoration and preservation intended to support the Comet’s long-term operation.
To help fund that additional work, the Trust has launched a dedicated appeal with a goal of raising £250,000 over the next 18 months. The campaign will support efforts to accelerate the repairs while also covering restoration work beyond the scope of the insurance settlement. The proposed program includes overhauling the aircraft’s engines, propellers, and accessories to zero-time standards. Components unaffected by the incident will also be inspected, refurbished, and preserved as necessary. Where replacement parts must be manufactured, the Trust intends to produce additional spares whenever practical. Building a larger inventory of components is expected to help ensure that the aircraft can continue operating for decades to come.
Donations will also help cover expenses not included in the insurance settlement, including the policy excess and other costs associated with restoring the aircraft to the highest possible standard. The Trust hopes the project will be completed well ahead of the centenary of the 1934 MacRobertson Air Race from Mildenhall, England, to Melbourne, Australia. Flown by Charles W.A. Scott and Tom Campbell Black, G-ACSS won the race after covering approximately 11,300 miles in just under 71 hours.
The aircraft later received its distinctive red finish and the name Grosvenor House, reflecting the sponsorship of hotelier Sir Macpherson Robertson and the aircraft’s connection with the Grosvenor House Hotel. Through the fundraising campaign, the Shuttleworth Trust aims not only to return G-ACSS to the air but also to improve its long-term sustainability, ensuring that future generations can continue to see one of Britain’s most celebrated racing aircraft in flight. To support this project, visit www.shuttleworth.org.
(Image credit: Darren Harbar)
