Monday, January 20, 2003

Unusual use for a Bristol Freighter

When airliners reach the end of their useful lives, most are scrapped, but a few are saved for preservation. Others end up as themed restaurants, night clubs or even as homes. A new and unusual use has been found for ex Royal New Zealand Air Force Freighter ZK-EPC/NZ5906. Towards the end of 2002, it was converted into two self contained motel units in Woodlyn Park, near the Waitomo Caves in New Zealand. The rooms can be booked for NZ$95 per night, on-line at http://www.woodlynpark.co.nz.

Thursday, January 16, 2003

New home for Bristol Scout

Several publications have recently highlighted the fact that Bristol Scout D replica A1742 is nearing the end of its restoration. It is due to go on display at the Bristol Aero Collection at Kemble, UK, in the summer of 2003. Some authentic items have now been fitted, including the undercarriage, a wicker seat, a replica Lewis gun, and a restored propeller. The aircraft still has an electric motor driving the propeller. As of January 2003, the wings need to be fitted, along with the associated rigging, and the fuselage does not have any fabric.