http://www.vintageaircraftclub.org.uk> Fairtravel Linnet
Fairtravel Linnet Project, The Great Dismantle
The award-winning Linnet Project aims to restore a rare vintage aircraft to flight condition with the help of a group of students aged 12-18 years. The Fairtravel Linnet, a low-wing, two-seat enclosed monoplane, is one of only five ever built in the UK (although somewhat similar planes were built in Europe under the name of the Piel Emeraude). It features a Rolls-Royce Contintental 0-200 engine and flies at 160mph. It was constructed by Fairtravel Limited at Blackbushe Aiport (where the Horsa Glider was built and tested) and had its first test flight in 1958 in the safe hands of Squadron Leader Neville Duke.
Generously bequeathed to us, our aeroplane was the last of the five to be built. It needs some significant restoration work. It uses a wood construction with a laminated box spar, with an elliptical trailing edge. It is therefore ideal for our purposes of teaching engineering and restoration skills to the next generation. Our aim of restoring it to actual flight condition has proven to be a huge inspiration to the youngsters and volunteers alike. The project has begun with the dismantling of the Rolls-Royce engine. The students were delighted to be able to actually wield the workshop tools in earnest, and to see the engine begin to come apart. One young participant described it as "10/10, beyond anything I imagined". It's not just the practical side either: they have also been learning about the theoretical side of combustion engines from the experienced volunteer team which includes two teachers, a retired aircraft inspector for the LAA, a test pilot and experienced vintage aircraft restorer as well as STEM Ambassadors.
What next? The engine is currently being carefully and thoroughly inspected regarding its condition, with each part carefully cleaned, measured and stored. Decisions are being made as to whether to use, repair or replace each part. Once this has been done, the engine will be reassembled and inspected. The project will then move on to Phase II: the wing! The team would like to thank the generosity of the National Transport Trust whose William McAlpine Award (2022) enabled the project to take off.
Article describing the project from the National Transport Trust publication.
