It’s an ambitious plan, but a group of pilots based at Enstone Flying Club in the U.K. hopes to build a dozen 90-percent-scale Spitfire replicas by the end of next year. The result will be a “living history” squadron of aircraft that will perform at events around the U.K. The Supermarine MK26B Spitfires will be built from all-aluminum kits by teams of up to 12 builders and pilots. Fractional ownership options from one-twelfth to full ownership of each airplane will be available. Builders also can opt to be trained in formation flying skills. The group hopes to have the squadron ready in time to perform at the Farnborough Air Show in 2012.
“This squadron, which I’m calling ‘City of Oxford’ will include ground crews, military vehicle enthusiasts and living-history players, making this a truly unique club, with a regular calendar of events as a focal point for every member,” wrote Paul Fowler, owner of the Enstone Flying Club, at his website. “With 12 Spitfires available and up to 12 builder/members per airframe, there will be no shortage of opportunities for builders to get involved.” The kits are designed for novice builders, he said, and plenty of support will be available from local experts and agencies. A form at Fowler’s website is available for interested participants to sign up for more information.
