Platinum Fighter Sales has announced the listing of an extraordinary aircraft: the world’s only factory-built, two-seat Messerschmitt Bf-109 / Hispano HA-1112-M4L Buchon. This ultra-rare airplane represents a unique chapter in aviation history.
The Origins of the Buchon
By 1942, the Spanish Air Force’s fleet of Messerschmitt Bf-109Ds was aging, prompting Spain to license the production of the newer Bf-109G model. Germany delivered 25 airframes to Spain, but wartime demands meant they arrived without engines. Hispano Aviación adapted these airframes by installing Hispano-Suiza 12-89 engines, designating the aircraft as HA-1109-J1L. The first of these took flight in March 1945. Subsequently, the aircraft were upgraded with Hispano Z12-17 engines and armed with two 12.7 mm Breda machine guns, along with provisions for rocket racks. These models were reclassified as HA-1112-K1L and entered service in May 1951.
The best-known version, the HA-1112-M1L Buchon, made its maiden flight on March 29, 1954. Equipped with a Rolls-Royce Merlin 500-45 engine and a four-blade Dowty Rotol propeller (similar to the Spitfire IX and XVI), the Buchon required reshaped engine cowls and a new air intake under the nose to accommodate the British powerplant. In total, 172 Buchons were built.
Among these, Hispano created a single, factory-built, two-seat, dual-control version—the HA-1112-M4L. One additional single-seat Buchon was later converted to a dual-control variant, but it was destroyed, making the HA-1112-M4L (registered as G-AWHC) the only surviving example of its type.
Service History and Role in Film
With the advent of the jet age in the 1950s, Buchons became obsolete for front-line service but remained useful for operations in colonial territories, such as the Spanish Sahara. By late 1965, the Buchons were retired and placed into storage. Their story took a cinematic turn when retired RAF Group Captain Hamish Mahaddie acquired 27 Buchons to produce the 1968 epic film The Battle of Britain. Among these aircraft was the unique HA-1112-M4L. The two-seat Buchon allowed the film’s flight crews to familiarize themselves with the “109” before transitioning to the single-seat models. Additionally, the M4L played a crucial role in filming in-cockpit flight sequences, with cameras mounted in the forward cockpit.
Notable aviation figures, including Luftwaffe ace General Adolf Galland and RAF Wing Commander Robert Stanford-Tuck, contributed to the production. The two reportedly flew together in G-AWHC during the making of the film to exchange their wartime experiences.
Restoration and Current Condition
After its cinematic career, the HA-1112-M4L became part of Connie Edwards’ renowned collection in Texas before being sold to its current owner. The aircraft was subsequently restored to airworthy condition by Air Leasing Ltd. in Sywell, UK, between 2015 and 2017. The Buchon now boasts 62.2 hours since a comprehensive inspection and repair by Air Leasing. Approximately 90% original, it retains its Rolls-Royce Merlin 500-45 engine, also with 62.2 hours since major overhaul by Vintage V-12s in the USA.
A Unique Opportunity
Currently based in the UK, this one-of-a-kind dual-control Buchon offers unparalleled opportunities for its next owner. With proper approvals, it could serve as a revenue-generating aircraft, providing flights for aviation enthusiasts and film buffs eager to experience history firsthand. The HA-1112-M4L is available for inspection by appointment, presenting a rare chance to own a piece of aviation and cinematic history. For more information, visit www.platinumfighters.com
The Spanish Air Force designated the Buchon as the C-4, and this aircraft was designated as a CE-4.
Thanks, John. It’s a rarely used designation, not needed in the Platinum article text, which does not go into the Ejército del Aire service designation level. I hope that helps!