On August 6th, the Navy Wings Chipmunk G-RNVR took center stage at the RNVR Commemoration event last week. Its appearance marked the culmination of a meticulous restoration project by the Navy Wings team.
Originally a Chipmunk of the Britannia Flight, the aircraft was transferred to the Royal Navy in 1966 to replace the aging Tiger Moths, providing Air Experience and Grading flights to prospective Royal Navy aircrew. Based at Roborough (later Plymouth City Airport), the aircraft was retired in 1993 and subsequently transferred to the Royal Navy Historic Flight as a spares aircraft for Chipmunk WK608.
After many years in storage, it was eventually sent to Hawarden for a rebuild. Unfortunately, before the restoration could begin, funding was withdrawn. The aircraft was returned to Yeovilton, where Navy Wings lovingly and meticulously restored it with a grant from the RNVR Officers’ Association in 2022. It has now been returned to its original Britannia Flight markings with the callsign ‘908’.
The restoration was carried out by a talented team of staff and volunteers at Navy Wings. Their key tasks included re-fabricating the wings, researching, designing, and applying paint and markings, managing the overhaul of various components (engine, instruments, etc.), and refitting components (instruments, engine, flying surfaces, cowlings, fuel tanks, controls, fairings, etc.).
The project began approximately two years ago, and the aircraft is expected to be ready to fly in Autumn 2024, pending necessary authorization. The final tasks remaining are the installation of instruments and the correct adjustment of the main undercarriage height.
Aircraft restoration is a significant undertaking, and Navy Wings relies on public support to complete these important projects. There are numerous ways to support the charity, including becoming a Supporter, making a donation, or participating in the Weekly Lottery. Visit www.navywings.org.uk to support the Navy Wings’ mission.
