The Avro Lancaster B.VII NX611, affectionately known as “Just Jane,” continues to make steady progress toward airworthy restoration at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre (LAHC) in East Kirkby. Under the leadership of project manager Andrew Patton, the restoration team has released its 251st official update, republished here with permission. Work on NX611’s nose section has advanced to the production and fitting of the numerous cleats that form part of its complex structure. Once these cleats are installed, technician Chris will proceed with the removal, assessment, and refitting of the stringers. Each cleat is shaped to accommodate the tapering geometry of the nose, with some incorporating a ‘joggle’ to account for the material thickness difference between the stringer and the transport joint where the nose joins the cockpit section.
Meanwhile, progress continues on the Percival Proctor, a long-standing project aircraft recently returned from covering and painting. Technician John has been installing interior fittings, including training radio sets, seats, intercom systems, the instrument panel, and blind-flying panel. Work on the aircraft’s doors has also been completed, with new Perspex fitted and prepared for attachment to the fuselage. The pilot’s seat assembly has been refurbished to allow removal or installation independently of the fuselage, supporting tasks such as radio operator training.
Keith has been focusing on the ribs for NX611’s tailplane in preparation for the new tailplane spar booms, which are part of the shipment of extrusions arriving from the United States. Each tailplane contains sixteen ribs on both port and starboard sides, and Keith has already fitted strengthening roll-formed sections to more than half of them. Upon completion, he is expected to move on to work on the trailing edge of NX611’s port wing.
On the rear-mid fuselage of NX664, Dave M and Jodie have begun preparing and fitting the replacement skins. Over the coming weeks, they will rough out, cut, drill, and trim the new material to reproduce the skins extending from the rear transport joint to the start of the bomb bay. Phil has been surveying the bomb bay ceiling and fuselage floor for potential issues to ensure a smooth transition to the skin fitting work.
Brad and his team have been undertaking the annual winter engine servicing, identifying an issue with the rubber mounts for the radiator packs. The Silentbloc vibration mounts now require replacement, and the team is seeking a supplier holding the correct size. If none can be sourced, they will commission a manufacturer to produce them.
The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre has announced a public talk on 31 January 2026 detailing the progress of NX611’s restoration, with tickets available in advance (Tickets available HERE). The Centre’s Wings Fund GoFundMe campaign has now raised over £90,550 toward the £500,000 target, helping cover part of the cost of the spar booms. Supporters contributing £50 or more are eligible to receive a special Wings Fund badge, with all donations directly aiding the restoration of this iconic Lancaster. For more information about the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, visit www.lincsaviation.co.uk
