(Image Credit: Alan Wilson CC 2.0)
Thursday 18th October 2007 was the date when aviation history was made, the first successful return to flight project of a complex ex-military aircraft under civilian regulations, supported fully by a willing public, so keen to see this air-show favorite in the air once again. It had been a gap of almost 14 years.
Vulcan to the Sky Trust spent seven years arranging funding and exploring the feasibility of restoring XH588 to airworthy condition and finally acquired the plane in 2005 to begin working on the plane. Over the course of the project there were many hurdles to surmount, but the group managed to get the plane into the air 14 years after its last flight and with over £7 million (US$11 million) spent, in October 2007 with a Permit to Fly being granted to the craft in July 2008. The plane has since become a favorite performer at British air shows, the spectators agog at the majesty of this massive warbird in flight.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
Outstanding!