The First de Havilland Mosquito Formation in 37 YearsYesterday, Saturday 21st September 2024, history was made at the Central Coast AirFeat as the first de Havilland Mosquito formation took flight since 1987. The 'Mossies' are two of only five in airworthy condition, all of which are currently based in North America (four in the states and one in Canada).
NZ2308 - a T.43 variant - is the most recent of the five to be restored with her first flight taking place in New Zealand on 17th March this year. She is unique amongst the airworthy Mosquito population as she is the only dual control variant. NZ2308 was built by de Havilland Australia in Bankstown, Sydney and was initially destined to be become a FB.40 - the Australian equivalent of the FB.VI. the aircraft was instead converted to a dual control trainer and thus designated as a Mark T.43. The aircraft now wears its authentic colour scheme of No.75 Squadron, RNZAF during its time with the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
PZ474 is a FB.VI and was restored in 2019, and like her sister, she was also a product of AvSpecs Ltd in New Zealand. The aircraft is painted in the livery of No.235 Squadron, RAF. She was originally constructed at Hatfield and entered service with the Royal Air Force on 19th April 1945. She also served with the Royal New Zealand Air Force from 5th April 1948 until 17th July 1953.
Since 11th June 2020, PZ474 has been in the hands of Charles Somers, based out of McClellan airfield, Sacramento, California.
Youtube:
https://youtu.be/QcDW4gBaCTY?si=n80c2rN9UuefPosS
